10 Ways To Style An Oversized Shirt

Yes, we enjoy a good bodycon dress and rely on tight bike shorts to get us through the summer, but just because we’re into curve-hugging designs doesn’t mean there isn’t a place in our wardrobe for loose, breezy pieces, too. These days, oversized shirts are considered a fashion staple, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that many women began to embrace this type of clothing. Back then, it was a way of rebelling against society’s ideal feminine look, which focused on a woman’s shape. Now, however, oversized shirts allow fashion lovers to express themselves through comfort and can be styled in a myriad of ways.

With summer in full swing, it’s time to get extra creative when putting together the perfect baggy outfit. From mixing patterns, to dressing up sweatshirts with heels, to pairing western boots with menswear-inspired button-downs, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite takes on this must-have style, ahead.

Knot Your Average Tee

An oversized tee tied into a crop top can really spruce up a look, and when styled with a midi skirt or high-waisted, baggy trousers, it will accentuate your proportions. Bonus points if your bottoms also include a playful detail, such as ruffles or a pattern, which can add another element of fun.

Step It Up In Heels

A cozy top and knit shorts are well suited for a cooler summer evening, while heels make things less casual. Although many of us have limited options for venturing out this summer due to the pandemic, this outfit could easily work for a backyard barbecue — social-distancing included.

Flex Your Muscles

Taking inspiration from Copenhagen’s minimalist style, it’s time to try the trendy, padded-shoulder muscle tee. With simple straight-leg trousers and sneakers, the result is an effortless cool.

The Bare Minimum Done Right

 A large men’s button-down or menswear-inspired shirt transforms into a dress. Go ahead and skip the pants but add western boots for an unexpected pairing. It’s so simple but makes an eye-catching statement.

Tuck It In and Accessorize 

Opt to tuck in your oversized graphic tee, then pair it with classic blue jeans for a perfect summer look. A bomber jacket and hoops pull together the look for an easy transition from day to night.

Let Loose

Sometimes, we just need to go full-on baggy. This specific styling choice is so comfortable and is the closest thing to feeling like we have no clothes on at all. Calf-length socks and the addition of slip-on Vans will help you channel the ‘90s tomboy look. You can’t get any cozier than this laid-back weekend outfit. 

Pattern Play 

Having great style means confidently breaking the rules. You can wear an oversized striped shirt with colorful pants. In this case, it’s all about the colors — the cool tones of pink and red make this pattern combination work.

The Classic Combo

Speaking of different combinations, a classic, crisp white button-down and jeans never fails. With some of your shirt buttons undone, including your cuffs, you’re telling the world you’re serious but can chill out, too. Whether you complete the look with boots, sneakers, or heels, all are acceptable options that work for brunch, date night, or the office.  

Wear a Matching Set

Who doesn’t love a matching set? An airy white shirt and white boxer shorts — or even a pastel, bright-colored, or patterned ‘fit — can be worn with any shoe you desire, whether you’re into sneakers or slip-on loafers.

Just Add Sneakers

Pull a Hailey Baldwin or Emily Ratajkowski and style your oversized shirt with white sneakers, such as Nike Air Max or a trusty Cortez pair. Tiny cutoffs or bike shorts will create that celeb-approved no-pants look, otherwise you can slip on a longer, Bermuda option and let them peek out.