Although the cool t-shirts of a few decades ago were more likely to include a slogan or promote a rock band that the wearer saw in concert, they have now become more of a medium for creative design. The popularity of these designer t-shirts can be largely attributed to the fact that many designs are community driven. Designers want to release cool t-shirts for sale that consumers will want to buy, so they listen to what is going on in the fashion community as well as their local community. This is how new t-shirt designs are born these days, as a collaboration between community and artist. Another factor that has contributed to the popularity of cool t-shirts is the reasonably simple process of designing and printing that resulted from improved technology. This has allowed more young and creative artists to have their own cool t-shirts for sale, which they can distribute online without having to sell them in an actual storefront.

Many companies also have their own online communities that allow members to provide feedback on the t-shirt designs, which enhances the community vibe. Now the consumer can get more involved in the type of cool t-shirts that they want to see being sold, rather then just waiting for the big designers to tell them what to wear. T-shirt designs have become a million dollar industry today, but there is plenty of room for the little guy to get involved. Now when consumers are looking for cool t-shirts for sale, they are definitely spoilt for choices. Most people have some designer t-shirts that came from the big companies that are established in the fashion industry, as well as some more original shirts from smaller and younger companies. Cool t-shirts don't have to have a name brand on them to be considered cool; there is plenty of room in the community for small and large designers alike.