How to style an oversized shirt the right way

The oversized shirt has become a wardrobe staple. When worn correctly, this flattering item adds a sense of effortlessness to your outfit. Even the most confident of dressers can find it difficult to know how to style a shirt that is too big. Without the right accessories, a button-up that is too large can make you look sloppy or swallow your figure. A shirt that is too small or short will look messy. You can do it!

Layers and experimenting with sizes are key when it comes to wearing a large button-up. Size notes may recommend that you size down if the brand’s style runs large. If you like the fit but don’t find the button-up relaxed enough to suit your style, then sizing up will help you achieve the casual, cool look.

After you have figured out your size, add extra pieces, such as a sweater that is shorter on top and subtly highlights your waistline or high-waisted pants. When you pair a button-up shirt with, for example, loose trousers, this will allow you to show some skin. Ours is worn open over a white tank. You can also go for the long and slim look by pairing a button-up shirt with a flowing maxi skirt or skinny pants. Our edit has more styling tricks and tips on how to wear an oversized top.

High-waisted denim and a belt

This look uses high-waisted jeans and a belt to emphasize your waist so that you don’t get swallowed up by a large button-up. Wear yours open or tucked into a white T-shirt. You can also add height with heeled boots.

Miniskirt and sweater

This combination of sweater, shirt, and skirt is subversively preppy but also a lesson in how to play with proportions. Again, a shirt that is slightly shorter than a button-up will emphasize your waist and add texture to your outfit. To protect yourself from the weather, tights and an overcoat are also a good choice.

A fitted tank with wide-leg pants

Wearing a white tank under an open shirt will help balance the volume of the button-up with the wide-leg pants. You can still maintain a relaxed look while showing off your shape.

Slim-fit trousers with pointy mules

Monochrome and sleek, this look nods to the effortless elegance of a classic button-up. To keep the look sleek, the bottom half of the trousers should be slimmer.

A long and lean maxiskirt

Extra-long layers are the key to this elegant ensemble. To avoid fabric overload, keep the maxiskirt narrow and lean, not full. Wearing your shirt with the bottom slightly open will make your legs appear longer.