The Oversized Shirts Trend: How to Style Them

Summary: From basic tees and button-downs to statement pieces with bold prints and embroidery, there's an oversized shirt for every taste and occasion. As a fashion designer or retailer, having a collection of oversized shirts is not enough. Your competition is also doing the same. Here’s how to style oversized shirts to stand out in the crowd. 

Oversized shirts have become increasingly popular in recent years. Also known as 'boyfriend shirts', these are characterized by their loose and relaxed fit, often featuring dropped shoulders and elongated sleeves. The appeal of oversized shirts lies in their versatility and comfort. However, it can be tricky to style in a balanced way. We have assembled a few pointers for designers/manufacturers who want to understand how to style oversized shirts.

Go Oversize with Larger Than-Life Styles 

Oversized shirts are a versatile, easy-to-wear, and stylish wardrobe staple, but the relaxed vibe can dip into a slouchy category with just a few missteps. Here are a few tips and tricks on how to style oversized shirts perfectly.

1. Balance the proportions 

One of the key elements of styling oversized shirts is balance. As the shirt adds more volume to the upper body, the lower portion should be kept compact and defined. Think of a fitted bottom like skinny jeans or a pencil skirt. This will create a nice contrast and help to define the silhouette. 

2. Cinch it at the waist 

Another way to add shape to an oversized shirt is to cinch it at the waist with a belt. This will create a more feminine and defined look, while still maintaining the relaxed vibe of the oversized shirt.

3. Layer it up 

Layering is another great way to style oversized shirts. Try layering an oversized shirt over a fitted tank top or a t-shirt. You can also design the outfit by layering an oversized shirt over a dress to add some visual interest and play with proportions.

4. Go for statement accessories 

Oversized shirts can be dressed up in a jiffy just by adding statement accessories such as bold jewelry or a statement bag. The simplicity of the silhouette can be the perfect blank canvas to show off a quirky look.

5. Experiment with different styles 

The great thing about oversized shirts is that they can be anything you want; encompassing myriad moods, vibes, textures, fabrics, and styles. From basic tees to button-down shirts, denim shirts, and dress shirts, each iteration can create a strikingly different style.

The most important thing, though, is to have fun. While figuring out how to style an oversized shirt can seem tricky, the best way is to think creatively and use the shilloute's versatility to your advantage.

Oversized Shirts over the Years 

Oversized shirts blew up during the 2020-2021 seasons, with many designers incorporating them in their collections and shows. In the Dior Spring 2020 ready-to-wear collection, oversized shirts were paired with tailored pants for a chic and sophisticated look. Similarly, in the Saint Laurent Fall 2020 collection, oversized shirts were paired with leather pants and boots for a rock-and-roll-inspired look. Several fashion influencers and celebrities were also spotted wearing oversized shirts both on and off the runway.

There are several high-end fashion designers and brands that have incorporated oversized shirts into their collections. As an emerging fashion designer/manufacturer, you can take inspiration from them.

1. Alexander Wang - Alexander Wang is known for his streetwear-inspired designs and oversized silhouettes. He often includes oversized shirts in his collections, sometimes paired with tight-fitting bottoms.

2. Y/Project - Y/Project is a Paris-based fashion brand known for their avant-garde designs and oversized silhouettes. They often include oversized shirts with unique details like asymmetrical hemlines and exaggerated collars.

3. Balenciaga - Balenciaga is a luxury fashion house known for its avant-garde designs. They have included oversized shirts featuring bold graphics or logo prints.

4. Off-White - Off-White is a streetwear brand known for its urban-inspired designs. They often include oversized shirts in their collections with unique details like contrasting collars and asymmetric cuts.

5. GmbH - GmbH is a German-based fashion brand that makes sportswear-inspired designs. They often feature oversized shirts with bold graphics or logo prints.

Oversized shirts for over-the-top fashion 

Oversized shirts have been a consistent trend in the international fashion show circuit, with designers and fashion houses showcasing a wide range of styles and ways to wear them. It appears to be a staple in many designer collections and a favorite among fashion enthusiasts. The oversized shirt trend is here to stay and can be a stylish and comfortable addition to any wardrobe.

To understand the styling of an oversized shirt and delve deeper into the fabrics that can be used, try Fashinza today. Our AI-powered platform can help you plan your collection with efficiency and ease. 

Speak to our expert today!

Key Takeaways

• Oversized shirts have been a consistent trend over the years, from runways to streets. 
• You can explore ways of styling an oversized shirt, ranging from pairing it with fitted bottoms to cinching the shirt at the waist, and also explore the option of layering. 
• As an emerging fashion designer/manufacturer, take inspiration from renowned designers on how to style oversized shirts.