Tag Archives: Elvis T-Shirts

Postscripts to Earlier ElvisBlog Articles

This the same photo I used to start the last Postscripts article back in April. That time, it was followed by a cropped copy of just the face. This time, it will be followed by three other Cat Elvis T-shirts that have been offered recently.

 

I’m not crazy about this one. What makes them think fans want a T-shirt with a cat/Elvis face on his US Army profile photo? I also don’t like the name – Elvis Purrsley – but at least it’s better than the first one – Meowvis Pawsley.

 

I don’t like this one at all.

 

Please, please… No more cat/Elvis T-shirts.

 

Back in 2010 I did a 50th anniversary look at Flaming Star. It featured these pictures of Elvis and Barbara Eden looking pretty chummy. However, as I pointed out then, she was actually the wife of Elvis’ character’s brother, played by Steve Forrest.

 

A few more Elvis and Barbara Eden photos have showed up.

Elvis never got this intimate with his sister-in-law in the film, but it is certainly a good movie promo picture of two beautiful people.

 

Another photo taken at this session was the inspiration for this famous Andy Warhol silkscreen.

 

For more on this Warhol artwork, check out this ElvisBlog post from 2010.

 

I’ve shown many variations on Elvis’ famous pose in Jailhouse Rock, the most recent in 2012. Many of them are very creative, but here’s one in 3D:

 

Here we have Elvis in fireman gear, hose in hand, balanced on the top of a fire truck. Where do people get their inspirations for this stuff?

 

Over the years, ElvisBlog has shown the work of artists and Photoshop jockeys that put US presidents in Elvis jumpsuits. Look what I just found.

Does anyone know if there is an Elvis connection to the Flamingo Café?

 

Once I had found an image of Joe Biden in a jumpsuit, I Googled all the other major Democratic presidential candidates to see if anybody had done them. The only thing I could find is this.

As I’ve written before, someone once said Al Gore was a minus zero on the Elvis Scale. I wonder what they would say about Bernie Sanders?

 

This is a really amateurish job of inserting Elvis into a photo of the Beatles crossing Abbey Road. I recently read an article on the 50th anniversary of the album, and it said a total of six shots were taken. This is one of the rejects with the Beetles going in the opposite direction from the one we know. Here’s a different rejected photo with a slightly better Elvis insertion.

It looks like Elvis has a spear pushing against Paul’s neck, but it just the sidewalk curb.

I guess the Photoshop guys can’t mess with the famous album cover photo without running into copyright problems. They won’t get into any trouble with this:

 

There are many images around pairing up Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, and Humphrey Bogart, but this is different.

The tag on this one said, “Beatles in Elvis Jumpsuits on Abbey Road.” I don’t think Elvis would have been caught dead in three of them, especially Ringo’s.

 

Just a few weeks ago, I posted these three photos of Elvis looking like a college student on campus. Here’s a new one:

 

 

This is a montage of Elvis doing his performance while on stage floors. It was taken from a post in 2017.

Here’s a new one.

 

I’ve been collecting Elvis photos for 15 years, and I never saw this one before last week. I love it. Doesn’t he looks like an animal on the prowl? Elvis was just so cool.

 

 

© 2019 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

$13 Elvis T-Shirts — Winners and Losers

The year 2019 has provided a bumper crop of T-shirts for review on ElvisBlog. They made up ¾ of the items covered in a March post on new arrivals at the internet Elvis stores. Then there was the annual summer T-shirt review around Memorial Day. And now, ShopElvis.com has cut the prices on nearly a dozen shirts from $19.99 to $12.99. Some are pretty good shirts; some not so much.

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Winners:

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American Legend Eagle:

 

If you like to wear patriotic T-shirts on the Memorial Day or 4th of July weekends, and you like Elvis T-shirts, here is your chance to combine both. You will note the words American Legend below Presley up by the neck. I like the flag and the attacking eagle in the middle. It is interesting to see both USA and The United States of America on this shirt. This shirt really works for me.

 

ANTIQUE GREEN ELVIS PRESLEY UKULELE AND SIGNATURE:

 

There were several Blue Hawaii T-shirts in this $12.95 offering. Here we have palm fronds, flowers, a ukulele, and Elvis’ signature. The background color is different than what we usually see. Good shirt.

 

PINK ELVIS PRESLEY BLUE HAWAII:

 

This is obviously a T-shirt for the ladies, and I can see why you would like it. The flowers seem to be the same ones as in the previous shirt. Does anybody know what they are?

 

BLUE GROTTO ELVIS PRESLEY SIGNATURE:

 

This is about as simple as Elvis T-shirt design ever gets, but it has pleasant happy feel to it. I can see it will appeal to some Elvis fans.

 

Beige American Eagle Flag:

 

It might be a stretch to call this design an American flag, but its close enough to work as another patriotic T-shirt. I tried to blow-up the white stripes to see if they were guitar necks, but it got too fuzzy to tell.

 

LOSERS

 

ORANGE ELVIS PRESLEY UKULELE DANCERS:

 

When I first saw this, I thought, “What’s with the stubby legs on Elvis?” Then I realized that the original picture from Blue Hawaii had been cropped. But why? There was plenty of room to show everybody’s full legs. I can’t look at this one without focusing on Elvis’ stubby legs.

 

DENIM BLUE STARS AND EAGLE:

 

Maybe I’m being too critical, but this just seems too dark.  You really have to look hard to see that it is an Elvis shirt. I suppose it is more recognizable when worn, and some folks might like it.

 

RED ELVIS PRESLEY FLAG FACE GUITAR PATTERN:

 

It’s a good thing the name for this one includes flag, face, and guitar. Otherwise, we would have no idea what those tiny images are. This might have been OK if they were three or four sizes larger.

 

PATRIOTIC GUITAR T-SHIRT:

 

This looks more like a Jimi Hendrix T-shirt than an Elvis one. And it looks like some kind of black bugs are eating up everything starting at the bottom. I don’t get it.

 

OTHER INTERESTING T-SHIRTS at ShopElvis.com:

 

HAWAIIAN-PATTERN AQUA ELVIS PRESLEY IN FLOWERS:

 

Here’s those Hawaiian flowers again. I love the background pattern. On sale, down from $29.95 to $21.95. That’s a pretty good deal.

 

ORANGE ELVIS PRESLEY HAWAIIAN SUNSET:

 

This could have been another good Blue Hawaii shirt. I love the palm tree background. But what fool decided to spell ELVIS PRESLEY:

ELVIS
PRES
LEY

Sorry, that ruins it for me. But if you like it, the cost is $21.95 on sale.

 

AMERICAN EAGLE JUMPSUIT PAJAMAS:

 

This is pretty clever. There have been American Eagle T-shirts that didn’t quite work, but these pajamas look pretty good. They could have skipped the blue scarf to make it even better. The best news is that the design is continued around on the back.

This is not a sale item and goes for $39.95. You also get more American Eagles on the pants.

 

BLUE WAVE ELVIS PRESLEY UKULELE AND PARROTS:

 

We’ll end with probably the most colorful Elvis T-shirt I’ve ever seen. Note, it is not necessarily a Blue Hawaii shirt, so those birds are fine even if they weren’t in the movie. This is the best of the shirts marked down from $29.95 to $21.95.

 

 

© 2019 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

Elvis T-Shirt Review – Summer 2019

The Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer, and that means it’s time for the 9th annual ElvisBlog review of the new arrival Elvis T-shirts. We’ll also look at some recently discounted shirts at ShopGraceland.com. It’s interesting to note what made them a hard sell.

New ones first.

 

ELVIS 68 SPECIAL BLACK LEATHER WOMEN’S SUBLIMATED T-SHIRT:

 

This is an excellent one to start with. Elvis looks great in the ’68 black leather. There’s a million shots of that around, but this one also shows the heads of the girls around the pit for the acoustic set. Nice touch. I don’t know what sublimated means; same with the red tonal graphic background it has, but they work just fine. Here’s a bonus — the design is on the back, too. $29.99

 

JOE PETRUCCIO JUST PRETEND MEN’S T-SHIRT:

 

I love all of Joe Pertruccio’s paintings of Elvis, and ShopGraceland was smart to use several of them on new T-shirts. This is the Sundial jumpsuit Elvis wore on his last concert in 1977. I can’t figure out why this pose is called “Just Pretend,” but it I love Elvis with his back to the crowd and disappearing into the shadows of the stage. $29.99 and worth it.

 

ELVIS KISSING GUITAR WOMEN’S SUBLIMATED T-SHIRT:

 

The website said this was a promotional photo from the early days, and it’s a good choice. I like the way the blue background varies from dark at the shoulders to brighter around Elvis. Of course, those floating hearts are supposed to be emanating from Elvis as he is lovin’ on that guitar, but I think hearts near Elvis’ head is a super concept for a women’s T-shirt. $29.99

 

ELVIS PRESLEY HEARTS PROFILE WOMEN’S SUBLIMATED T-SHIRT:

 

Or, if you don’t want to be subtle with the hearts, here is a beauty for you. Great graphics. And this one is double sided, as well. $29.99. Go get one, ladies.

 

ELVIS PRESLEY FOLLOW THAT DREAM COLD SHOULDER WOMEN’S T-SHIRT:

 

This is the first Elvis T-shirt to feature cold-shoulder cutouts. Unfortunately, the three-word cursive graphic isn’t very eye-catching. Hopefully we’ll see more of this style with better designs. $29.99

 

ELVIS PRESLEY KING OF ROCK N ROLL T-SHIRT:

 

I like red T-shirts, and this is not bad. It would be better if the image of Elvis was blown up about three times. $24.99

 

ELVIS PRESLEY SILHOUETTE COLLAGE 3/4 SLEEVE WOMEN’S T-SHIRT:

 

It looks like most of the best new arrivals are for women. No surprise. I like this one because of the different way they presented the Elvis silhouettes. The 3/4 sleeve and long tail give it a pretty unique appearance. Take another look at the Elvis silhouette on the right. It’s coming up soon on a shirt I do not like.

 

Next are three discounted shirts with numbers on them..

 

ELVIS ALOHA FROM HAWAII 45TH ANNIVERSARY ALBUM T-SHIRT

 

Well, it’s colorful and all, but this is just weird. There is fine print that says Aloha from Hawaii 1973-2018, but who can see it? That big blue 45 is what jumps out at you. All of these anniversary T-shirts get discounted the next year, and this went from $24.99 to $12.50.

 

ELVIS PRESLEY 41 LOGO T-SHIRT:

 

The website says, “2018 will be the 41st year of Elvis fans from around the world coming together to commemorate Elvis’ life and career.” I guess that’s the politically correct way of saying the 41st anniversary of his death. The out-of-date shirt has been cut from $24.99 to $12.50.

 

JOE PETRUCCIO ELVIS IS BACK 50 WOMEN’S T-SHIRT:

 

Okay, can you figure out what the 50 is all about? Elvis in his ’68 black leather suit should give you a clue. It;s a shame to see any Joe Petruccio arywork get used on a shirt that will be obsolete in a year and discounted.  This went from 29.99 to $20.99.

 

How about a couple I really don’t like?

 

GRACELAND ROCK GUITAR FRAME RAGLAN:

 

The website says this one is sold out, so somebody must like it. The raglan-cut long sleeve design is a plus. My big complaint is one I have voiced here before. Too much Graceland, not enough Elvis. It costs $29.99. Why bother when that much money will get you some great shirts that feature Elvis?

 

ELVIS ALOHA FROM HAWAII 45TH ANNIVERSARY WOMEN’S T-SHIRT:

 

The large silhouette in this design is the one I told you to keep in mind earlier. However, here it looks like a raging Godzilla, mostly because the overlaid concert photography that makes him look scary. Here’s a blow-up.

Then there’s the little silhouette over his neck. That looks like Elvis is getting a radioactive charge that’s about to crumble him to the floor. This T-shirt is a complete mess. It used to be priced at $29.99, now reduced to $15. Good luck.

 

ShopGraceland also has a selection of $14.99 shirts – the original price, not a discounted one. I wondered if there were any pleasant surprises. No. I should have known why they were cheap.

 

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There are several more of these uninspired designs that feature Graceland with very little Elvis. If you had $30 to spend, what would you rather have two Graceland T-shirts or one good Elvis T-shirt? Like the one below.

 

JOE PETRUCCIO TAKE MY HAND MEN’S T-SHIRT:

 

I saved my favorite for last. It’s another Joe Petruccio painting, this time of Elvis in the ’68 black leather. The addition of the marquee stage sign with the lights in white, not red, is masterful. This shirt is no frills, but still packs a big punch. $29.99

 

 

 

© 2019 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

New Arrivals at the Internet Elvis Stores

Image - ELVIS MOTORCYCLE TCB CROSSBODY HANDBAG

How do you like this Elvis picture? I love it, and I can barely believe it was Graceland that brought it to us. This striking design is actually on a handbag that just arrived at Store.Graceland.com.

ELVIS MOTORCYCLE TCB CROSSBODY HANDBAG

According to the website, you can:

“Show off your inner Rock ‘n’ Roll rebel with the Elvis Motorcycle Flames Crossbody Bag! This flaming hot carry-all features an image of Elvis perched on one of his beloved motorcycles surrounded by a gold tone TCB flame pattern.”

That’s a pretty cool handbag for an Elvis fan. It can be yours for $45.

 

Graceland Big, Elvis Small on T-shirt

OK, this is a new one I don’t like. Can you see what’s bothering me? Let’s make it easier to see.

Graceland Big, Elvis Small - Copy

Who thought it was a good idea to put a little Elvis Presley down at the bottom, and a big Graceland at the top? I wish they wouldn’t do that.

 

ELVIS PRESLEY GRACELAND GUITAR WATERCOLOR 3-4 SLEEVE WOMEN'S

The design is more balanced on this ¾ sleeve woman’s T. So is the name: Elvis Presley Graceland Guitar T-shirt. That pretty much covers it all. The shirt goes for $24.99.

They’re getting a lot of use out of the image. It’s also on totes, magnets, cozies, key rings, travel tumblers, and regular T-shirts.

 

WHERE ELVIS LIVES WOMEN'S DOLMAN T-SHIRT

But, that’s nothing compared to all the stuff they put this image on. It’s on all the items just mentioned plus zip hoodies, shot glasses, frosted pint glasses, and coffee mugs. The Where Elvis Lives T-shirt is also $24.99.

 

I think they are missing the boat by not putting the Elvis Flaming TCB Motorcycle image on all that kind of stuff.

 

ELVIS ALOHA FROM HAWAII 45TH ANNIVERSARY WOMEN'S DOLMAN

At first glance, I thought these were marijuana leaves. This Aloha from Hawaii T-Shirt has been recently discounted 1/3 to $38.50.  Probably because the 45th anniversary of Aloha from Hawaii was last year.

I just wonder how close you have to be to someone wearing it to make out that it’s a tiny silhouette of Elvis on the front.

ELVIS ALOHA FROM HAWAII 45TH ANNIVERSARY Blown Up

 

Sorry. I like Elvis big on T-Shirts, not small.

 

There were also new arrivals at ShopElvis.com, including one I don’t like two things about.

 

VEGAS MEOWVIS PAWSLEY T-SHIRT

The concept is okay, I guess, and the art work is pretty well done, but cat Elvis looks like he has a broken neck. The head needs to be moved three inches to the left to look right. The other thing that bugs me is the name they gave it: Vegas Meowvis Pawsley T-Shirt. Yuck.

 

3 ELVIS MOON T-SHIRT

 

This shirt appeals to me a lot. The background has a tie-died appearance. That feature is on a lot of the new arrivals, so it must be some kind of technology they have now, and a good one. The moon is a nice touch, and I like the three Elvis images. Plus it is only $19.95.

 

One thing I’ve noticed is that shirts from ShopElvis.com never have the word Graceland on them, or an image of it. May be part of some agreement between EPE and ShopElvis. But I especially like Elvis shirts with big images of him and few words, and they have lots of them.

 

I’ve been doing Elvis T-Shirt reviews on ElvisBlog for ten years, and I have slammed some bad ones. But a new offering from ShopElvis.com is the worst Elvis T-Shirt I have ever seen.

ALL HAIL THE KING T-SHIRT

The drawing of Elvis sucks so bad. It doesn’t look like a crown for the King of Rock and Roll over his head. It looks like Jughead’s cap.

I can’t believe anybody would buy this shirt. You can expect this loser to be discounted soon when sales don’t happen.  ShopElvis could drop it to $2, and I still wouldn’t be buying.

 

Here is one other item in their Elvis apparel selection that I can’t make up my mind about.

TCB Socks

 

Wow. Bold TCB socks for men or women. $19.95 a pair. What do you think ladies? Does this work for you?

 

ELVIS JUMPSUIT CAPE on sale for just $17.95

And here’s the deal of the day. The Elvis Jumpsuit Cape. Marked down from $30 to $17.95. It’s a nice size, coming down your back for 24 inches, and it has a red satin lining. Seems like some folks could have a lot of fun with it at parties or Elvis events.

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© 2019 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

Elvis Goodies from the Fuzzy Room – Part 3

Fred Flintstone Elvis T-shirt - Back

You readers are the best. I’m so pleased by your support helping me find new homes for the Elvis stuff I’ve collected for decades and displayed in my Fuzzy Room.

Jungle Tree Fuzzy Room

You’ve snapped up every item I offered for sale. So, now it’s time to look at some new Elvis goodies.

Please Note: The prices quoted are for delivery to USA destinations only. Postal rates to other countries are just prohibitive. Sorry.

 

Fred Flintstone / Elvis T-shirt:

Editor’s note:  This item has been sold.

Fred Flintstone - Elvis T-shirt

I’ll bet you’ve never seen this outstanding two-sided T-shirt before. I did an extensive internet search and could find just one. It was for sale at $25 plus postage. Mine is gently worn, so I will cut that price in half and sell it for $15 delivered. Size XL. Wear this on your trip to Graceland and you’ll catch the attention of lots of other fans.

 

1,000 Piece Elvis Puzzle:

Editor’s Note:  This item has now been sold.

 

Elvis Puzzle

If you like puzzles as much as you like Elvis, this is for you. There are a lot of used versions of this available on line, but what I am offering is unopened. The picture above is the cover of the box. Here is a bigger picture of the puzzle, which measures 18 x 28 when completed.

Elvis Legends Puzzle

Prices for the unopened puzzles online range from $25 to $37 plus freight. Here’s a deal – $17 delivered.

 

Set of Five M&M Elvis Figurines:

Editor’s Note: This item has now been sold.

 

M&M Elvis

The M&M people did a good job with the iconic Elvis outfits on these 3” tall resin figurines. There are white and blue jumpsuits, gold lamé suit, ’68 Special black leather, and Aloha from Hawaii flowered shirt. All but the one in the blue jumpsuit were originally part of a set. I added one more because I liked these little guys so much. They do tip over fairly easily, so I added a spot of glue on their soles to keep them steady on the woodgrain panel you see. I have popped them off for shipping, but it’s so simple to put them back.

I looked all over the internet and found one, two, and three piece offerings, but not the original four-piece set I bought. Strange. The consensus price for one was $10 plus postage, so let’s see if a price of $20 for all five delivered works for somebody. I probably should go on line and see what the M&M collectors would bid, but these guys should go to an Elvis fan. They are so cool.

 

Elvis 29¢ Stamp Beach Towel:

Editor’s note:  This item has been sold.

Elvis Stamp Beach Towel

This big beauty measures 31” x 56”. It has had very little use and still looks great. I found another one online for $15 including postage, so I’ll offer this one at $12 delivered.

 

Elvis 30th Anniversary Collector’s Edition:

Editor’s Note:  Three copies of this have been sold, but I have two more.

30th Anniversary Issue

This 64 page high-quality publication was a big seller at Elvis Week 2007. I was at the tables for four days selling it and other items associated with Elvis The Magazine. I am also listed as a Contributing Editor in it, although it contains none of my work.

What it does contain is a treasure of information, recollections, and full-page photos.

Elvis…30 Year Timeline: This is a year-by-year account of everything concerning Elvis that occurred from 1978 to 2007. I’ve never seen this done before, and it is most interesting.

Conversations and Memories: I love this section, especially the folks whose comments about Elvis haven’t shown up a lot in other media. Here’s the list:

Bernard Lansky
DJ Fontana
Frank Paige (announcer at the Louisiana Hayride)
Janelle McComb
Joe Esposito
Sam Phillips
Johnny Black ( Bill Black’s brother)
Joe Moscheo (Imperials Quartet)
Millie Kirkham
Don Siegel (director, Flaming Star)
Marian Cocke
Don Robertson (songwriter)
Ben Weisman (songwriter)
Harold Lloyd (jeweler)
Anita Wood
Jimmy velvet
Scotty Moore
Johnny Cash
June Juanico
Eddie Fadal
Neal Mathews (Jordanaires)
Gordon Stoker (Jordanaires)
Ray Walker (Jordanaires)
Ira Jones (Elvis’ Army Sargent)
Red West
Charlie Hodge

Collecting the King – Thirty Decade of Elvis Conventions: This article by expert Robert Alaniz has a few surprises.

Elvis Presley Fan Clubs: A listing of 37 domestic and international.

Origins of Elvis Week: Good article, but I wish it was longer.

26 full-page photographs, some you haven’t seen elsewhere:

 

This collector’s item originally sold for $19.95. It can be yours for $10 delivered.

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Elvis Rubix Cube:

Editor’s Note: This item has now been sold.

 

Actually, this cube is considerably simpler than the original Rubix. You won’t have any trouble getting it opened and maneuvered into twelve Elvis photos:

Blue Suede Shoes
Teddy Bear
Jailhouse Rock
Hound Dog
Don’t be Cruel
Thank you, thank you very much
G.I. Blues (above)
Shake Rattle and Roll (above)
Burnin’ Love
Lonely Street
Blue Hawaii
Heartbreak Hotel.

Elvis Rubix Cube

It’s 3” in each direction, a fun little fidget. I found it online at $7.50 plus another $7.50 postage. I think somebody is padding the postage a bit here. How about $9 delivered?

Jailhouse Rock

Blue Hawaii

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Elvis Pins, Magnets, and Key Chain:

Editor’s note:  This item has been sold.

 

Elvis Pins, Magnets, and Key Chain

Here’s a nice set of little Elvis collectibles. There are three refrigerator magnets – Elvis with a guitar, Elvis and Nixon, and a really nifty mini-45 gold record that says Love Me Tender. The Elvis stamp makes its second appearance here on a keychain. And there are two pins, one with a photo and the other with a drawing. How about the whole package for $12 delivered?

 

Pay Now with PayPal Button.

If you want an item, send me an email at philarnold@charter.net. (Do not notify me of your interest on Comments.) As usual, first come, first served. I would prefer payment using PayPal, but checks will work, too. When I get your email, I will initiate billing on PayPal. You approve it, and I send the item right out to you. With a check, it’ll take a little longer.

Thanks for your support.

Phil Arnold

 

© 2018 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

Elvis T-Shirt Review — Summer 2018

Tailor-made Elvis T-Shirts

It’s the weekend before the 4th of July, time to do my ninth annual review of Elvis T-shirts. Before we get into the latest designs from ShopGraceland.com, I just want to point out the above photo and say that someone has come up with a great idea for a custom-made Elvis T-shirt. These women are wearing shirts that show themselves hugging Elvis and about to be kissed. How cool is that! Does anybody know if this is something done at Elvis Presley’s Memphis at Graceland or maybe at an Elvis convention? Please let me know on Comments and I’ll share with everybody. Now for the review.

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68 Comeback Joe Petruccio:

JOE PETRUCCIO 68 STANDUP Elvis T-shirt

Hopefully you all are familiar with Joe Pertruccio’s fabulous Elvis artwork. I have featured T-shirts with his Elvis drawings on them before, and praised them highly. I also like black T-shirts. From a distance, it’s probably hard for someone to get what’s going on with this shirt. You have to move up closer and focus on the image to see it’s Elvis in his famous black leather outfit playing guitar. It doesn’t even need to have his name on it. Very subtle, and yet, probably the edgiest Elvis T-shirt ever made. $30

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Guitarman Joe Petruccio:

JOE PETRUCCIO GUITARMAN ELVIS T-SHIRT

Now that I have praised Joe Petruccio, let’s talk about one of his miss-fires. Even close-up you might need a while to figure what this design is all about. Let’s blow it up and look for anything Elvis in it.

JOE PETRUCCIO GUITARMAN T-SHIRT Blow-up

Did you find the name Elvis Presley spelled out vertically in the guitar’s neck? I wish it had been left off this one, too. As subtle as the first one was, this one is over-kill — just too much stuff. It’s almost psychedelic, not the type of thing most Elvis fans are looking for. $30

 

Just Pretend Joe Petruccio Raglan:

JOE PETRUCCIO JUST PRETEND RAGLAN Elvis T-shirt

I feel kind of guilty for knocking any Joe Petruccio design, so I’ll try to make up for that by praising this one. I love the simplicity, and it’s so effective it also doesn’t need Elvis’ name on it. The raglan cut is a nice variation, too. It costs $30, but I’d pay more to have the image on the back of the shirt and something like this on the front.

Elvis Presley in Sundial Jumpsuit.

 

Elvis Presley Made America Great:

ELVIS PRESLEY MADE AMERICA GREAT 24.99

Okay, that’s enough on the shirts with Joe Petruccio designs. Here’s a good one for the 4th of July. I like Elvis Presley done in red, white and blue, but I can’t keep from picking at it a bit. They should have made the capital P for Presley all blue with white stars. It looks more like a D the way it is.

ELVIS PRESLEY MADE AMERICA GREAT Silhouette Blow-up

And the little Elvis silhouette distracts from the clarity of both words.

I do like the theme Elvis Made America Great, but I hope no wingnut finds it offensive because it’s derived from another phrase that disturbs them. I sure wouldn’t want an Elvis fan hassled at a restaurant because they were wearing this shirt. $25

 

Elvis Shades TCB Collage:

ELVIS SHADES COLLAGE TCB T-shirt

There have been lots of TCB T-shirts and lot of shirts with Elvis wearing his signature sunglasses. Now we have one with both. I especially like the bright sunburst radiating out from behind the TCB. It enhances both photos. The website says.” Take Care of Business in this hip 70’s collage Elvis T-shirt.” $25

 

68 Special Rhinestone Woman’s:

ELVIS PRESLEY 68 SPECIAL RHINESTONE WOMEN'S T-SHIRT

This woman’s T-shirt appeals to me for its simplicity. The image looks a little different because it is done by a process the website calls, “a tonal dark rhinestone graphic of Elvis.” I don’t know what that means, but it’s not real rhinestones as have been featured on other shirts over the years. They cost big bucks, but this one can be yours for $60.

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Ambition is a Dream with a V8 Engine:

ELVIS PRESLEY AMBITION IS A DREAM WITH A V8 ENGINE RAGLAN

This is a good concept that started well but finished poorly. The overlapping V and red-colored 8 draw the eye to the wrong thing. Elvis’ picture is the only thing that should be prominent in the center. Then the bottom text could read, “with a V8 Engine.” Much more balanced and easier to read. Raglan style shirts seem to be very popular these days, and the black sleeves on a white shirt is a nice touch. $30

 

Graceland Microphone Raglan:

GRACELAND MICROPHONE RAGLAN T-shirt

This is my least favorite. I have fussed before about T-shirts that say Graceland with no mention of Elvis. I am an Elvis fan, not a Graceland fan. But somebody must like Graceland shirts, because they keep coming up with new designs. This shirt really bugs me because it says Graceland: Home to Rock ‘n’ Roll. Why not “Home of Elvis Presley”? $30

 

I feel like this review has not presented enough designs I like, so here are a few from a source you might not think of: AllPosters.com.

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Elvis – Peacock:

allposters.com Peacock Jumpsuit Design Elvis T-shirt

I like it when they come up with Elvis designs that are new and different. Using elements from Elvis’ fabulous Peacock jumpsuit is a great idea. And Elvis’ blue face is kind of interesting, too. Only $20. AllPosters.com has lots of Elvis T-shirts priced at $18 and $20.

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Circle G Ranch:

allposters.com Circle G Ranch Elvis T-shirt

They don’t get much more original than this. I wonder if the folks who are campaigning for Elvis’ Circle G Ranch to be preserved and open to the public are aware that this shirt exists. $24

 

Elvis Presley – Long Live the King:

Allposters.com Long Live the King Elvis T-shirt

This is a wonderful woman’s T-shirt. I wish they had it in men’s. A great profile picture of Elvis with strong gold text saying. “Long Live the King.” What more do you need? And just $20.

 

I hope you enjoyed ElvisBlog’s 2018 Elvis T-shirt review.  You can read the previous eight reviews by typing T-Shirt Review in the search box.

 

As I did my research for this post, I noticed there are a great many products celebrating the 50th anniversary of Elvis’ ’68 Comeback Special. Some are great, some not so much. I’ll probably do a review of them sometime soon.

 

Have a cool 4th of July

 

© 2018 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

 

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When an Old Fan Has to Say Goodbye to His Collection of Elvis Goodies

Jungle Tree Fuzzy Room

Unfortunately, I’m old, and it’s time to scale down. When we move, there will be no space to put all the Elvis stuff I have now in what I call my Jungle Tree Fuzzy Room. (Or the junk room as my wife calls it. She has a point — over the years a lot of other stuff has ended up in there, too.)

Every once in a while, I will post pictures of some of my mementos. I don’t have anything you would call a big collectible, but I know somebody out there will want every one of these goodies. There will be cheap prices to make them go quickly.

Unfortunately, this offer must be limited to readers in the USA only.  Postal rates to other countries are just prohibitive.  Sorry

So, here are the first offerings from the Fuzzy Room:

Author’s note:  All items  have been sold.

 

Early Elvis T-Shirts:

Author’s note:  This item has sold.

I have owned these for 30 years, and they go way back beyond that. The first two say M on the label, but they look like they would work best for a woman or an adolescent child. Wear them yourself or maybe you could start a little early Elvis indoctrination with a grandchild. It’s never too young or too old to be an Elvis fan.

 

ELVIS T-Shirt

This one has the word ELVIS in a lighted marque design on a dark blue background. Sorry about the wrinkles, but these shirts have been folded up in storage for a while.

 

Elvis name and Image T-shirt

Super colorful shirt with Elvis’ image and his name in gold block letters. This is my favorite of the three.

 

Elvis Lives On T-shirt

This shirt has no size label, but it’s a bit smaller than the other two, so let’s call it size S. Bright blue background with white flock lettering. It was probably a homemade iron-on.

You can have all three T-shirts for $15, which includes postage. At the end of this post, we’ll look at payment options.

 

Elvis License Plate:

Author’s Note: This items has been sold.

 

Elvis License Plate

I bought this in Las Vegas about 15 years ago, and it has been part of the wall art in the Fuzzy Room ever since. The price to you is only $6, and that includes the postage. An excellent deal.

 

Elvis ’56 — book by Al Wertheimer:

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Author’s note:  This book has sold.

 

Author’s note #2:  I see I never posted a picture of the book, so here it is.

 

Elvis '56 Book

This book was a huge seller back in 1979 when Al Wertheimer published it. Perhaps you do not know the story of how he took over 3,000 photos of Elvis in 1956. If not, click here to read the article I wrote about him in 2006 for Elvis the Magazine.

Elvis the Magazine 29th Anniversary Issue

Elvis the Magazine 29th Anniversary Issue - My Article

 

Anyway, all those photos sat unused in Al’s files for over twenty years. When Elvis died, Al discovered he had a treasure trove of material and published Elvis ’56 – In the Beginning.

Books autographed by the author are always special, but the copy I am offering has been inscribed and signed by Al Wertheimer twice. I bought the book from a vendor at Elvis Week a few years before I got the chance to interview Al and write about him. Inside the front cover, Al had written a short thank you note to Irving Paul and signed and dated it November 22, 1979.

Then, after I got to know Al, I sent him the book and asked him to inscribe a message to me. This is what he wrote:

To Phil Arnold:

Who is Irving Paul? I don’t remember. I’m glad though that my book wound up in your hands. It’s been out of print for some time and will become rarer as the years go by. Thanks for your interest in the “Wertheimer Collection” of Elvis photos I took in 1956. Glad to have such a good writer as a fan.

Be well,

Al Wertheimer 11/11/07

Perhaps you are wondering why I would let go of something as special as this. The reason is because Al sent me another copy of Elvis ’56 with an entirely different inscription. It’s long, so I won’t repeat it all. But he did call me, “a very talented writer and Elvis Blogster who did such a fine job of telling my story in Elvis the Magazine.” He also said, “Let’s stay in touch,” and we did. If you look at the right column of this page under Blog Categories, Al Wertheimer is represented 15 times.

So, I am asking $15 for the double-inscribed and signed copy of Elvis ’56, and a good bit of that will go for the shipping and postage because this is a heavy book.

 

Elvis Teddy Bear Wearing Gold Lame Suit and Holding Guitar:

 

Author’s Note:  This item has been sold.

 

Elvis Bear in Gold Lame Suit

There is one of these on eBay right now going for $24.94 plus $9.30 shipping. I’m letting it go for $12 total. Here is the picture from eBay showing the back that says, The King of Rock and Roll.

And the one I’m selling also has the replica of the 29 cent Elvis stamp shown above.

Elvis 25th Anniversary Documentary:

 

Author’s Note:  This item has been sold.

 

ELVIS 25th Anniversary Documentary

If you still have a working VHS tape player, you will find this different and enjoyable. Back in 2002, the 25th anniversary Elvis Week was a huge celebration. As the back cover says,

This Elvis documentary takes a look at the Elvis Fans, Elvis Music, Elvis Friends, and Elvis Events that took place during this incredible Tribute Week.

More than 50,000 fans showed up on the 25th Anniversary, and Greg Summit from Westlake Entertainment was there to follow the fans around Memphis to catch the excitement on film. Mr. Summit filmed the fans, the Tribute Artists, the friends of Elvis, and the events throughout the week.

It gives those who were unable to be there, a chance to see the excitement of the 25th Anniversary Tribute Week. For those who were there, it will certainly bring back the wonderful memories.

 

I was there, and I’m glad I have another copy of this video to relive that big party.

The price is just $6, and that includes shipping costs.

 

Elvis Necktie:

Author’s Note:  This item has been sold.

 

Elvis Necktie

At my age, I won’t be wearing a tie like this anymore, but it was fun to wear to Elvis gatherings over the years. It’s got Elvis singing into a mic, two pink Cadillacs, drums, sax, guitar and records. Just $5.

 

There are two ways you can purchase any of these items – PayPal or personal check. I don’t yet have a PayPal button that you are probably used to.

Pay Now with PayPal Button.

Sample Only

This button is available if you have a business PayPal account, but I have a personal one like you probably do, too. I will be upgrading soon, because it will aid in sales of my book BIG E and the SANTA MAN when the next annual campaign starts next October.

In the meantime, here’s how to use PayPal.

1) Open up your account page on PayPal.com and click on Pay or Send Money.

PayPal Account Page

2) Click on Pay for goods.

Pay for goods

3) A box pops up where you enter my email address: philarnold@charter.net. Click Next.

Enter seller's email address

 

Enter the price of the item. And the item description where it says Add a note. Then scroll down and click Continue.

Enter Price and Item description

You will go to the order summary page you are familiar with, and if everything is right, click Send Payment Now. It’s actually pretty easy.

PayPal sends me a notice of the sale, and I mark it sold on the blog. Then I mail it to you.

Or you can send me an email that you want to purchase an item by check. I’ll confirm and hold it for you until I get your check.

 

So, please go back and look over the items and see if there’s anything you would like to have.

I really appreciate your support,

Phil Arnold

 

 

© 2018 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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Elvis T-Shirt Review — Summer 2016

How an Elvis T-shirt should be worn

The Memorial Day Weekend is here, the official start of summer. Time for ElvisBlog to present its seventh annual Elvis T-Shirt Review. ShopElvis.com obliged by offering a Memorial Day Savings event, including a Spring Cleaning Clearance of some items they would like to move.

So the 2016 T-Shirt Review will have two parts. First, my picks for the best of the new shirts added this year. And, second, a look at the clearance shirts worthy of being snapped up.

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Elvis Karate:

Elvis Karate T-Shirt

There have been a few Elvis T-Shirts with a karate theme over the years, but I like this one the best. This picture doesn’t show the image very well, but this blow-up does.

Elvis Karate Blow-Up

I like the look on Elvis’ face, the concentration in his blue eyes. And the ying-yang symbol and the way they did his name with a pseudo-oriental look is an eye-catcher. This shirt goes for $24.99, and is also available in youth sizes for $2 less.

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Elvis Now Playing:

Elvis Now Playing T-Shirt 34.99

I have always favored double-sided T-Shirts, and this is a good one. I wish the single Elvis image on the back was the one on the front, but oh, well. You do pay extra for double-sided shirts, and this one goes for 34.99.

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Elvis Simple Face Longsleeve:

Elvis Simple Face Longsleeve Shirt 29.99

Long-sleeve T-Shirts are another personal favorite of mine, but the artwork on this one is what really appealed to me.

Elvis Simple Face Blow up

The lines and shadowing are so clean and minimal, but this image of Elvis’ face really jumps out from the black background. A very good deal at $29.99.

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Elvis It’s Good to be King:

Elvis It's Good to be King 24.99

Someone looking at this from a distance might not be able to make out the theme, but close-up the image is definitely young Elvis. Covering the shirt with Elvis signatures is a clever idea, and we can hope that continues around to the back side. $24.99.

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Elvis is King Ladies Scroop Neck:

Elvis is King Ladies Scroop Neck T-Shirt

I’ve never liked T-Shirts with the image of posters, album covers, or movie placards on them. But the poster here is on a black background so it blends into the rest of the shirt. And it has kind of a retro look. However, the main reason it made the select list is that it costs only $14.99. As far as I can tell, this is a new arrival, not a clearance item. Also, I don’t know ladies fashion terms, but I’m pretty sure they meant scoop neck, not scroop neck.

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Elvigyle T-Shirt:

Elvigyle Elvis T-Shirt 24.99

I loved this T-Shirt the second I first saw it. I thought it was a tie-dye. But it is an argyle pattern in two shades of light blue. So, of course that strange name makes sense: Elvis Argyle = Elvigyle. For you fans who aren’t familiar with Elvis’ preference for argyle socks as a young man, check out this picture.

Elvis Wearing Argyle Socks

Fortunately, the image on the T-Shirt is Elvis wearing the black leather outfit on the ’68 Comeback Special. I like that it is muted, I like the vine design curling around it, and I even like the big E in an ornate font. Well worth $24.99.
Before looking at the clearance items, I would like to mention something positive about the new batch of Elvis T-Shirts from ShopElvis.com. The word Graceland does not appear on any of them. Nor are any pictures of it blended into the backgrounds. These are all just Elvis T-Shirts, and I like that. I have been getting frustrated with the offerings from ShopGraceland.com. It seems like they were pushing Graceland as much as Elvis. I still don’t know why we have both online Elvis vendors. If anybody knows, please let me know in Comments.

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Elvis Love Me Tender Woman’s T-Shirt:

Elvis Love Me Tender Women's - X-small - orir 64.99

You might wonder, like I did, why this nice looking T-Shirt is marked down so much. The answer is that the only size left is X-small. So, if you’re a tiny Elvis fan, this is a deal for you. Or, if you have a six-year-old daughter that you’d like to have share your love for Elvis, snap up one of these.

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35th Anniversary Ladies T-Shirt:

Elvis 35th Anniversary Ladiis T-Shirt - Medium -originally 24.99

This one has been marked down twice since 2012– from $24.99 to $14.00 to $4.97. There’s nothing special about the design, but it does come in size medium, so it might work for the Elvis fan on a budget.

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Viva Elvis Cirque du Soleil Women’s T-Shirt:

Viva Elvis Cirque du Soleil Women's - Small and Medium - Orig 29.99

This one is colorful, available in small and medium, and originally went for $29.99. You need to see a blow up of the artwork to appreciate it.

Elvis Cirque du Soleil Blow UP

To me, it looks like Elvis is surfing through space on a comet trail of gold records. If you don’t mind that little reference to the defunct Viva Elvis show at the bottom, this is a pretty good deal.

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Elvis Youth Studio Session:

Elvis Youth Studio Session Fleece Al Wertheimer, Youth small and Youth Large, Orig 39.99

If you have a child who shares your passion for Elvis, this is a steal. Long sleeves, great Alfred Wertheimer photo, originally $39.99. It is available in youth large, so if you are a ladies small, this just might fit you. Snap it up.

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Rock and Roll Racerback Tank:

Elvis Rock n Roll Tank - Extra Small - originally 120

Believe it or not, this tank top originally sold for $120. Created by fashion designer Susan Fixel, it featured original artwork by Joe Petruccio and hand-applied crystals. Described as “Light and airy with a chic, edgy feel.” It even has two side-panel pockets. The only size left is X-small, so they obviously moved the larger sizes at the big ticket prices. Treat you little daughter to this fashion statement Elvis tank top.

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Alfred Wertheimer T-Shirt:

Elvis Al Wertheimer T-Shirt - all sizes

See anything strange about this mark-down? They corrected it a couple of days later, but not before I snapped this screen grab. Now $19.99.

 

 

Elvis and American Flag on Memorial Day

Have A Great Memorial Day

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© 2016 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

Elvis T-Shirt Review — Summer 2015

Graceland University of Rock Raglan  T-Shirt

For the sixth year in a row, ElvisBlog is happy to present its annual Elvis T-Shirt Review.  In years past, all the winners and losers came from ShopElvis.com.  Now that Graceland.com is selling T-Shirts (and everything else in their on-line store, ShopGraceland.com), this year’s picks come from both sites.

ShopElvis.com

ShopGraceland.com

 

WINNERS

 

 Graceland University of Rock Raglan T-Shirt:

University of Rock

One reason I picked the shirt at the top is because I am partial to the raglan sleeve design.  Another reason is the great silhouette of Elvis.  However, the theme is especially clever – UNIVERSITY OF ROCK.  Same for Home of the King and Founded 1954.

You will note GRACELAND at the bottom of the design.  This is becoming a trend in the new shirts offered on ShopGraceland.com.  Twenty out of their thirty-seven designs have the word Graceland on them (many with a picture as well).  None of the forty-seven designs on ShopElvis.com have anything about Graceland.  I don’t know what that means, but it is curious.

 

 Elvis on Tour in Japan T-Shirt:

 Elvis on Tour in Japan T-Shirt

This shirt makes the Winners List because it is so bizarre.  Elvis never toured Japan, and Elvis on Tour in Japan does not appear on the shirt, so the title is a puzzler.  But this is probably the only Elvis T-Shirt with hot chicks in bikinis on it.  And it certainly is the only one featuring Japanese letter symbols.

 

Elvis Presley Boulevard / Lonely Street T-Shirt:

 Elvis Presley Boulevard Lonely Street

I am always partial to black T-Shirts with colorful designs.  This design is fairly subdued, but it works.  I like the street signs showing the intersection of Elvis Presley Boulevard and Lonely Street.  Same for the profile of Elvis. But check out the long-distance perspective down the street toward Graceland with Elvis’ shadow right in the middle.  Very cool.

 

Elvis The Legend Rolls On MotorcycleT-Shirt:

Elvis the Legend Rolls on Motorcycle T-Shirt

I’m a sucker for any T-Shirt design featuring an Alfred Wertheimer photograph.  I also like The Legend Rolls On and the vertical spelling of E-L-V-I-S.  I’m not sure I understand why they felt they needed to add the white streaky stuff to the left of his name, because it obscures so much of Elvis’ Harley.

 

Elvis Presley American Classic Motorcycle T-Shirt:

 Elvis Presley American Classic Motorcycle T-Shirt

Here’s another Elvis motorcycle pic worked into a T-Shirt design.  There is a lot here if you look closely.  From the top, we have a crown, The King of Rock & Roll, ELVIS PRESLEY (in a nifty font), Elvis and the Harley, eagle wings, the TCB logo, and AMERICAN Classic.  The only thing missing is Graceland.

 

Elvis Presley Fueled By Rock ‘N Roll T-Shirt:

Elvis Presley Fueled By Rock 'N Roll T-Shirt

Graceland isn’t missing on this one.  The ’54 pink Caddy has been on a number of Elvis T-Shirts over the years, but this view is the best yet.  Add this to the list of clever titles or tag-lines:  ELVIS PRESLEY – Fueled by Rock & Roll.

 

Elvis Presley Boulevard Lonely Street Guitar T-Shirt:

 Elvis Presley Boulevard Lonely Street Guitar T-Shirt SG 22

Well, if Elvis Presley Boulevard/Lonely Street was a good idea for one T-Shirt, why not use it on another?  This concept is totally different, but the use of the guitar neck as the pole for the street signs is clever.  I could have done without the Graceland on the neck, but still a good shirt.

 

TCB Distressed Foil T-Shirt:

Elvis Presley Boulevard Lonely Street Guitar T-Shirt

I have this same design on a baseball cap I wear all the time.  Every once-in-a-while, a stranger will notice it, smile, and say “Elvis fan.”   It’s almost like a secret code.  You can proclaim that you are an Elvis fan, but only other fans get it.  The rest of people don’t have a clue.

ShopGraceland TCB

The shirt above is offered by Graceland.com.  I’m not real crazy about the distressed-foil design.  It just makes the TCB logo look crappy, so what’s the point?  However, ShopElvis.com has a similar design.  It’s cleaner and the lightning bolt isn’t compressed so much.

ShopElvis TCB

 

 

LOSERS

 

Elvis Stage Presence T-Shirt:

Elvis Stage presence T-Shirt

Stupid name.  What does this image have to do with “Stage Presence”?  And look at this blow-up of the picture.

Elvis and Cat in Oval Office

That’s Elvis in the Oval Office shaking hands with a cat, not President Nixon.  Stupidest idea for an Elvis T-Shirt I ever saw.

 

Elvis Presley US Army T-Shirt:

 Elvis Presley U.S. Army T-Shirt

Two things force this shirt onto my Loser List.  Maybe the Sergeant strips on the sleeves work for some folks, but they are a total turn-off for me.  Just tacky.  And why is the front design crooked?  This shirt looks like it is a second, but ShopGraceland.com is asking $22 for it.

 

Elvis V8 Ambition:

 Elvis V8 Ambition

Another confusing name.  Ambition is clear enough, and if you look closely, you can see V8 Engine above Elvis’ signature.  But you’d have to be real close to someone wearing this shirt to see the full tag line: AMBITION is a Dream with a V8 Engine.  This is just not a very desirable T-Shirt.

 

Elvis Presley Aloha From Hawaii Ukelele T-Shirt:

Elvis Presley Aloha From Hawaii Ukelele T-Shirt

There aren’t many red Elvis T-Shirts, so I wanted to like this.  But when you look close, lots of stuff are turn-offs.  For one, Ukulele is spelled wrong in the name (I didn’t actually catch this, but Spell Check did).  I’m good with guitars on Elvis T-Shirts, but ukes don’t do anything for me.

Elvis in a Uke

But, look at this blow-up.  Over Elvis’ face and body, they have superimposed Aloha from Hawaii Live Via Satellite.  Those splotches of red on his face are just unacceptable.

 

Official Elvis Insiders Conference 2005 T-Shirt:

Official Elvis Insiders Conference 2005 Men’s T-Shirt

As you can imagine, this shirt did come from the Close-out section.  They’ve been trying to sell the last of these for ten years.  It’s about time to realize nobody wants them.  Give them to charity and move on.

 

Elvis American Legend T-Shirt:

Elvis American Legend T-Shirt

I guess this is an Elvis shirt you either love or hate.  It’s hard to believe it is being offered by the folks that are so concerned about protecting Elvis’ image.

Elvis Wearing TCB Glasses

Imagine this image on a circular pendant swinging slowly back and forth.  “You are getting sleepy, very sleepy.”

 

 

©  2015    Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister    All Rights Reserved    www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.

 

ELVIS T-SHIRT REVIEW — SUMMER 2014

ELVIS T-SHIRT REVIEW — SUMMER 2013

ELVIS T-SHIRT REVIEW — SUMMER 2012

ELVIS T-SHIRT REVIEW — SUMMER 2011

ELVIS T-SHIRT REVIEW — SUMMER 2010

Elvis T-Shirt Review — Summer 2014

Elvis That's All Right T-shirt

It’s here already. The Memorial Day weekend and the de facto start of summer. So, for the sixth year in a row, it’s time for the annual ElvisBlog review of the new Elvis T-shirts. As usual, all the shirts reviewed are from www.shopelvis.com. We’ll start with ten winners and finish up with five we could probably do without.

 

The Winners

 

Sun Records Elvis That’s All Right 60th:

Sun Records Elvis That's All Right 60th T-shirt

This shirt gets a bonus award for the longest name. Of course, EPE has chosen the 60th anniversary of “That’s All Right Mama” as the 2014 theme for Elvis celebrations, so this shirt could sell well at Elvis Week. I like it because of the bright yellow against the black background. The picture of Elvis is pretty good, and I love how he rises out of the hole in the Sun Records 45.

Elvis Crowd Pleaser:

Elvis Crowd Pleaser T-shirt

At first I thought this shirt was overly-busy and a little washed-out looking. However, the kicker here is that it is a two-sided design. For some reason, ShopElvis calls that sublimated. Seems like the visitors to the site would understand two-sided better.

Elvis Crowd Pleaser T-shirt - Back

It’s kind of clever that the back side of this shirt shows an image of Elvis from the back. The price on Elvis Crowd Pleaser is $30, above the $23-27 range of the other shirts, but worth it.

 

The Sun Years:

The Sun Years T-shirt

Sun Records seems to be a popular inspiration for Elvis T-shirt designs, and this is the second to make the 2014 top ten. I like the variety of colors on a black shirt, but why change the Sun label from the familiar yellow to light blue? Still a good shirt.

 

Elvis TCB King:

Elvis TCB King T-shirt

TCB and the lightning bolt have been used many different ways on Elvis T-shirts, but you have to look to find them here. The image of Elvis here in gold and white is outstanding. They should have just called this shirt “King Elvis.”

 

2014 Graceland:

2014 Graceland

As I said last year, I like Elvis to be the subject of T-shirt design, not Graceland. But this shirt combines both. With the year 2014 also in the mix, this one should sell very well to folks who visit Graceland this year. It’s hard to see, but there is a Graceland logo in the center that says “The Home of Elvis Presley” and “Memphis, TN.” I tried to find a bigger picture of the logo on Graceland.com, but no luck. Nothing on Google, either.

 

Elvis Guitar Legend:

Elvis Guitar Legend T-shirt

The name of this T-shirt is a complete fabrication. Elvis has never been considered a guitar legend. However, the shirt reads “The King of Rock and Roll,” not “Guitar Hero,” so it doesn’t matter. The design concept has been used before on shirts for other performers and themes, but it looks fine here, adding color and interest around a B&W photo of young Elvis.

 

Elvis King Sunglasses:

Elvis King Sunglasses

Well, they haven’t run out of new ways to incorporate Elvis’ signature sunglasses into T-shirt designs. This one is pretty clever, but it would be improved if Elvis’ face was in color.

 

Elvis TCB Rhinestone Black Babydoll:

Elvis-TCB-Rhinestone-Black-Babydoll

I have no idea what the babydoll designation means, but this is one you ladies should jump on. The design is good, it is covered with rhinestones, and the price is only $7.

 

Elvis That’s All Right:

Elvis That's All Right T-shirt

My favorite of the new Elvis T-shirts for 2014. The reasons: black shirt, funky graphics on ELVIS, two good color pictures of Elvis, and the Sun Records label.

 

The Losers

Elvis POW:

Elvis POW! T-shirt

This is a ladies T-shirt, so it isn’t the pale pink color that turns me off. And, I love the ELVIS text graphics. It’s the Elvis image that’s wrong. If you want to show him as a boxer, use a shot of him standing with his dukes up, not sitting on a stool. Better yet, show a picture of him beating the crap out of Red West from any of a dozen movies.

 

Elvis Graceland Repeat:

Elvis Graceland Repeat T-shirt

I don’t get this shirt. Why would anybody buy a Graceland shirt when dozens of Elvis shirts are available? Boring, stupid… no way.

 

Muhammad Ali and Elvis:

Elvis and Muhammad Ali T-shirt

I don’t have anything against Mohammad Ali, but I don’t want him on my Elvis T-shirt. Plus, I don’t like any shirt that just has a reproduction of a photo, or album cover, or poster as the art work. Come on, get creative.

 

Elvis Larger Than Life:

Elvis Larger Than Life Sublimated T-shirt

Uh, oh. Another photograph, and this one is huge. The description on the website says this is a two-sided shirt, but no image of the back is shown.

 

The King’s Golden Tuxedo:

The King's Golden Tuxedo

No, no, no! This is simply hideous. Maybe it would work at a Halloween party, if you arrive after everybody has had lots of drinks. However, I will say that the back of this shirt looks pretty cool.

The King's Golden Tuxedo T-shirt - back

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Booby Prize

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For some reason, there were only nine shirts in the Winners section. Here’s a bonus pick to make up for the short count.

2006 Elvis Insiders Conference:

2006 Elvis Insiders Conference  T-shirt

Obviously, this shirt didn’t sell out in 2006, and they are still trying to unload the last of them eight years later. Just give the things to charity and move on. But here’s the kicker. The website listing says the sale price is $11.49, regularly $7.00. Huh?

 

© 2013 Philip R Arnold, Original Elvis Blogmeister All Rights Reserved www.ElvisBlog.net

 

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Elvis, Elvis Presley, and Graceland are registered trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.