Oversized shirts? They perfectly balance beam that line. However, because not everyone is accustomed to wearing larger clothing, it can be difficult to avoid being engulfed by an oversized shirt. As celebrities, influencers, and models have shown us, though, this is possible. And you don’t have to give up your personal style to get there. There is a certain way to put together a chic outfit, whether you want to wear a fun graphic t-shirt or a classic button-down. Of course, since this fit naturally leans casual, there’s a fine line between your oversized shirt outfit looking intentional versus downright sloppy. So to help you stay on the stylish side of that line, InStyle editors rounded up 15 ways to wear an oversized shirt that will have you looking like a street style star.
Start Simple
A monochromatic matching set will tidy up your loose-fitting look. Finish with a heel that goes with it or go with something unexpected like Western boots. It’s an easy outfit that still makes a statement.
Knot Your Ordinary Shirt
An oversized tee or button-down tied into a crop top can really spruce up any style. And when worn with a long skirt or high-waisted trousers, it can hug your curves in a way you’d only expect from a bodycon dress. To help your legs appear elongated, consider matching your shoes to your bottoms.
Remember To Prep
If you’re looking for a trendy way to wear a basic, oversized button-down, grab a structured or knit vest and layer it on top, prep school style. Adding a tie is optional, and you can wear whichever bottoms you prefer. Either way, you’ll nail the light academia aesthetic.
Go Classic But Modern
An oversized top paired with shorts is an all-weather go-to for a reason. A black-and-white outfit is timeless and well-coordinated when choosing a color scheme; however, careful attention to detail will prevent it from becoming stale. A zebra print skirt (or any animal print, really) and mismatched footwear add a playful spin.
Tuck And Accessorize
On warmer days, you can wear an equally baggy pair of shorts with your oversized graphic tee. A chunky statement necklace and a structured jacket will help pull together the look for an easy transition from day to night. Add a pair of sneakers to give the outfit a more casual appearance. To elevate it, opt for a pair of pointed heels instead.
Flex Your Muscles
With an oversized muscle tee, go minimalist. Styled with baggy trousers or leather joggers, it reads as effortlessly cool. Try it the next time you head out for after-work drinks.
Try Traditional
Of course, you can never go wrong with the timeless pairing of an oversized button-down and jeans. With a few buttons undone, including your cuffs, you’re telling the world you’re serious but can chill out too. To dress up your jeans, slip into a pair of heeled mules.
Ready, Set, Match
An unbuttoned oversized shirt with matching bottoms and an exposed bra is coordinated and sexy. The best part? It can be worn with any shoe you desire, whether you’re into sneakers, slip-on loafers, or heels. It’s giving chic pajama set.
Sometimes, we feel an urge to go baggy from top to bottom. This specific styling choice is incredibly comfortable and the closest thing to feeling like we have no clothes on at all. With a pair of slip-on sneakers, you can’t get any cozier than this laid-back weekend outfit.
Let Loose
Unsurprisingly, an oversized shirt can act as a jacket—or rather, a shacket. This garment is perfect for those crisp, in-between days, providing both warmth and an extra dose of style. Once it’s layered over your look, you can choose to leave it open or button it up before throwing on a few key accessories that will pull the whole ensemble together.
It Takes Two
It doesn’t get much easier than outfits that consist of just two pieces. Style your oversized shirt or sweater with boots that go over your knees. It’s a sexy, sleek solution that works year-round, especially during those months when the goal is to keep your legs warm.
Show Some Skin
If your button-down outfit is in need of a little spice, a quick trick is to unfasten the top and slip out a single shoulder. With the addition of elaborate jewelry, as well as fancy footwear, you’ll find this look works for a variety of occasions—including more formal ones (just trade the jeans for bare legs, tights, or trousers).
Cinch It In
Wearing an oversized shirt as a dress is something you might be familiar with if you grew up with older siblings or frequented thrift stores as a teen. This thoroughly modern update on the trend involved cinching an oversized T-shirt at the waist using a corset top. There are so many ways to make this look your own, but we particularly love a sheer long-line corset that lets any graphic on your tee shine through.
All About The Layer
This outfit could easily work for an early fall apple-picking adventure—just opt for a rugged boot so you don’t get your white sneakers mud-crusted. Put a turtleneck on top of a basic flannel shirt for a chic look that also keeps your neck warm.
Down To A Tee
Looking to style a simple oversized T-shirt while channeling your inner punk? A structured leather jacket with platform boots is a perfect way to do that. Don’t forget the statement jewelry to add sparkle to a darker outfit.
