Frankie Says Relax Shirt — Where to Buy it?

The Birth of a Legend: The History of the Frankie Says Relax Shirt

Aria Kim
8 min readMar 7, 2024

Once upon a time, back in the rad ’80s, there was this shirt that shouted out something like, “Frankie Says Relax.” Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the deal with this shirt?” Well, buckle up, my friend, because we’re about to dive into the history of the Frankie Says Relax shirt.

a woman wearing the icons Frankie Says Relax Shirt
Buy this sweater or the T-shirt with the quote “Frankie Says Relax” on Redbubble here!

So, picture this: it’s the early ’80s, neon colors are all the rage, and synthesizers are making waves in the music scene. Along comes a band called Frankie Goes to Hollywood, dropping a tune called “Relax” that’s so catchy, it’s practically impossible to get it out of your head. Now, imagine you’re in their music video, and you spot those words on a T-shirt. Boom! The Frankie Says Relax shirt is born.

Where to buy the shirt?

There are many places to buy a shirt or other clothes with the text, the best place is Redbubble, they offer high-quality merch for low prices.

Buy The Frankie Says Relax shirt here!

The image shows the Frankie Says Relax Shirt on Redbubble a must have for fans.
The shirt on Redbubble!

Also don't forget to scroll down to find more products with the Frankie Says Relax quote. You might just stumble upon the perfect addition to your collection!

Discover more products with the Frankie Says Relax quote, like sweaters, pillows and bags!
Make sure to keep scrolling to discover additional products featuring the classic “Frankie Says Relax” quote.
The Frankie Says Relax Essential T-Shirt available on Redbubble for sale.
You can snag the must-have Frankie Says Relax Essential T-Shirt, up for grabs on Redbubble!

The Iconic Symbol of Carefree Vibes: Why the Shirt Became a Legend

Now, why is this shirt iconic, you ask? Well, let me tell you, it’s not just about the catchy slogan. It’s about capturing the rebellious spirit of the ’80s. It’s like wearing a piece of history that screams, “Hey, I’m laid-back, and I don’t take life too seriously.” It’s a symbol of carefree vibes and a nod to a time when everyone was just chillin’ like a villain.

Wearing the Frankie Says Relax shirt is like putting on a time-traveling cape. It transports you to the era of big hair, leg warmers, and shoulder pads. It’s a fashion statement that says, “I’m cool, and I know it.” Plus, it’s comfortable as heck, like a warm hug from the ’80s. Slip into that soft cotton, and you’re ready to groove like you’re in a John Hughes movie.

The Everyday Elegance: Why the Frankie Says Relax Shirt is a Wardrobe Staple

Why is it a great shirt to wear, you ask? Well, let me break it down for you. First off, it’s versatile. Whether you’re hitting the mall, grabbing a coffee, or just Netflix and chillin’, the Frankie Says Relax shirt is your go-to. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of wardrobe choices — simple, effective, and always in style.

The best part? You don’t need a PhD in fashion to rock this shirt. Throw it on with some jeans or leggings, and you’re good to go. It’s effortlessly cool, just like that friend who always looks put together without even trying. Plus, it’s a conversation starter. People see that iconic slogan, and suddenly, you’re the life of the party, sharing stories of the ’80s like a time-traveling DJ.

Joining the Cool Club: Famous Faces and the Frankie Says Relax Shirt

Now, let’s talk about the cool cats who’ve been spotted donning the Frankie Says Relax shirt. Picture this: you’re scrolling through social media, and bam! There’s your favorite celebrity rocking that iconic tee. From Hollywood A-listers to rockstars and influencers, the Frankie Says Relax shirt has become a must-have in the wardrobes of the who’s who.

Remember that time when Taylor Swift posted a selfie in the Frankie Says Relax shirt? Fans went wild, and suddenly, everyone wanted to get their hands on one. It’s like a secret handshake among the cool kids — if you’re wearing the Frankie Says Relax shirt, you’re part of an exclusive club of trendsetters.

But it’s not just about the famous faces. It’s about everyday people like you and me, bringing a piece of the ’80s into our modern lives. It’s a shirt that transcends generations, reminding us all that sometimes, we just need to relax and enjoy the ride.

Frankie Say Relax worn by Ross from Friends.

Our beloved comedian and Friends character Ross also wears a version of the T-shirt, although the shirt says “Frankie Say Relax”, it's still very cool, and you can get it here if you want.

Get the Ross from Friends “Frankie Say Relax” version on Redbubble.
Get the Ross from Friends “Frankie Say Relax” version on Redbubble.
Famously, Ross from Friends, wears a similar shirt, get it here.

Fun Facts About Frankie Goes to Hollywood and the Iconic Frankie Says Relax Shirt

  1. Origin of the Name: Contrary to what you might think, the band’s name, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, wasn’t inspired by the famous actress. It actually comes from a headline in The New Yorker, capturing the spirit of their journey into the music industry.
  2. Record-Breaking Debut: “Relax,” their debut single, stormed the charts in the UK, staying at the number-one spot for an impressive five weeks. It’s one of the longest-reigning chart-toppers in British history.
  3. Forbidden Airwaves: Due to its provocative lyrics, the BBC initially banned “Relax.” Ironically, the ban only fueled the song’s popularity, turning it into a rebellious anthem.
  4. Multimedia Pioneers: The band embraced multimedia in their performances, using visuals and technology in groundbreaking ways. Their concerts were not just about music; they were immersive experiences.
  5. Two-Hit Wonders: While “Relax” was their biggest hit, “Two Tribes” also climbed the charts, earning them another spot in the limelight. The band’s impact was profound, even with a limited number of releases.
  6. Fashion Forward: The band’s flamboyant and avant-garde fashion sense influenced the ’80s style scene. Their bold choices in clothing became as iconic as their music.
  7. Grammy Nomination: Despite their short-lived active years, Frankie Goes to Hollywood received a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 1985, a testament to their cultural impact.
  8. Disbanding Drama: Internal conflicts led to the band’s disbandment in 1987, but not before leaving an indelible mark on music history.
  9. Revival in the 21st Century: In the 21st century, Frankie’s music experienced a revival, with a younger generation discovering and appreciating their timeless hits.
  10. Frankie Says Merchandise: The Frankie Says Relax shirt transcended its origins, becoming a pop culture phenomenon. It continues to be a sought-after item, with fans worldwide embracing its nostalgic charm.

Frankie Goes to Hollywood wasn’t just a band; they were trendsetters, breaking records, challenging norms, and leaving an enduring legacy that goes beyond their musical contributions. The Frankie Says Relax shirt, an unexpected symbol of this era, remains a fun and fashionable reminder of their impact on the ’80s and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Frankie Goes to Hollywood? Frankie Goes to Hollywood was a British band that rose to fame in the early 1980s. They gained massive popularity with their hit song “Relax” and became synonymous with the vibrant music scene of the ‘80s.

What is the story behind the Frankie Says Relax shirt? The Frankie Says Relax shirt originated from the band’s music video for “Relax.” During the video, dancers wore T-shirts with the iconic slogan. The shirt became a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the carefree and rebellious spirit of the ‘80s.

Why is the Frankie Says Relax shirt considered iconic? The shirt is iconic for several reasons. It represents the bold and carefree attitude of the ’80s, capturing the essence of the era. The catchy slogan, combined with the association with the hit song “Relax,” turned the shirt into a symbol of pop culture.

Is the Frankie Says Relax shirt still available? Yes, the Frankie Says Relax shirt is still available today. Due to its timeless appeal and nostalgic value, it has become a popular retro item. You can find it in various online and offline stores that specialize in vintage or retro clothing.

Where can I buy an authentic Frankie Says Relax shirt? You can find authentic Frankie Says Relax shirts on various online platforms that specialize in retro and vintage clothing. Additionally, some official merchandise stores associated with the band may offer these shirts.

Why is the Frankie Says Relax shirt considered a wardrobe staple? The Frankie Says Relax shirt is considered a wardrobe staple for its versatility and timeless appeal. It’s a simple yet effective fashion statement that can be effortlessly paired with different outfits. The shirt’s comfort and iconic slogan also make it a popular choice for casual and laid-back occasions.

Which famous people have been spotted wearing the Frankie Says Relax shirt? The Frankie Says Relax shirt has been donned by numerous celebrities, adding to its allure. Notable figures like Taylor Swift have been seen proudly wearing this iconic tee, contributing to its status as a must-have fashion item.

Can I wear the Frankie Says Relax shirt for any occasion? Absolutely! The Frankie Says Relax shirt is incredibly versatile and suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re out for a casual day, attending a music event, or just hanging out with friends, this shirt exudes a laid-back charm that fits well in diverse settings.

What sizes are available for the Frankie Says Relax shirt? The Frankie Says Relax shirt typically comes in a range of sizes, catering to various body types. When purchasing, be sure to check the sizing chart provided by the seller to ensure you get the perfect fit.

Is the Frankie Says Relax shirt a unisex item? Yes, the Frankie Says Relax shirt is designed to be a unisex item, making it suitable for both men and women. Its loose and comfortable fit adds to its universal appeal, allowing anyone to rock this iconic piece of ’80s fashion.

In Conclusion: A Timeless Piece of Cool

In conclusion, the Frankie Says Relax shirt is more than just a piece of clothing. It’s a time capsule, a fashion statement, and a symbol of carefree vibes. Whether you’re a die-hard ’80s enthusiast or just someone looking to add a dash of cool to your wardrobe, this shirt is a must-have.

So, next time you’re wondering what to wear, just remember: Frankie Says Relax, and you’ll be rocking the coolest shirt in town.

And just for fun, Ross again;

Gif or Ross putting on his Frankie Say Relax shirt
Gif or Ross putting on his Frankie Say Relax shirt

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Aria Kim

Asian American journalist, storyteller, and blogger seamlessly blends news reporting and creative expression with captivating insights.