How to Style an Oversized T-Shirt
When it comes to fashion, anything goes. There are wardrobe staples, however, that never go out of style; we just find new and innovative ways to wear them. T-shirts are one of those wardrobe items that always seem to be trending, while the ways that we wear them change. Still, while t-shirts are always in style, you don’t want to go with the same old tried-and-true when you can easily stay on trend and look cute.
Now that oversized t-shirts are trending, it’s important to remember that a baggy shirt can get frumpy very easily. Just be sure that your styling is on point so you don’t miss the mark.
Here are our favorite ways to style oversized t-shirts.
Tie It Up
We know that tying a cute knot in your shirt has been a thing since the 1990s into the early 2000s, but since Y2K is back in a big way, knotting your oversized t-shirt is back in too. Whether you’re a Millennial that is well-seasoned in the art of t-shirt knotting, or this is your first time around this trend, there are several ways that you can knot your tee to make it look cute.
Check out Abi demoing the various ways you can tie and style your oversized shirts.
The Back Knot
Probably the most basic but most important knot technique is the back knot. By back knotting your t-shirt, you eliminate the look of too much extra fabric. This helps you bring the silhouette of the shirt up and in. It also helps you keep the knot out of sight and your style simple.
First, pull the shirt up to the desired length. Then, you’ll want to gather up the excess fabric in the back. Next, coil the excess fabric until it forms a spiral, and then you can create your knot. If you’ve got extra fabric from tying the knot, you can tuck it under so it doesn’t show.
The Front Knot
The front knot is just like the back knot except in the front. With crop tops as a current trend, you can quickly take any of your shirts from too long to cropped quickly. For a knot that looks smoother, you can take any excess fabric from pulling the knot closed, and snug it over the knot itself, tucking it in as you go. This gets rid of the visible portion of your knot and makes your knot look more polished, even if you’re just feeling comfy in your favorite oversized t-shirt.
The Ultra Crop
Hey, we get it; with today’s trends, it seems like you almost can’t crop a shirt enough. Rather than buying a whole new wardrobe or potentially ruining all your favorite oversized t-shirts, you can opt for the ultra crop instead. You can even pop on a brightly colored longline bralette for a pop of color, too.
With this one, you’ll want to fold the shirt up much higher than the other knots – mid-bra line or even above your cleavage, depending on your preferences. You’ll knot in the same way, and if you don’t want the knot to show at all, you can fully tuck the knot under the hem.
The Tucked Knot
If you just want to snug your shirt up a little bit and put a professional polish on your look, you can try the tucked knot. This is a bit of a misnomer because you’re not making a full knot, but you go through similar movements.
With the French tuck back on the scene, this is a fun look that’s just a bit more polished than most knots. First, you’ll pull your shirt up to shorten it a little to just below the top of whatever bottoms you’ve picked. Then, on one side, start to twist the fabric in a loose manner. Once you’ve got a little bit of a tight spiral, you can tuck that piece into your shorts, pants, or skirt, creating a more refined silhouette.
The Fancy Drape
If you don’t want the look of a basic knot, you can get a fancier draped look. This adds a more interesting texture to your oversized t-shirt. For this style, you’ll need a rubber band or that hair tie you’ve always got on your wrist. Under your shirt, form an “O” shape with the fingers of one hand, and pull the fabric through the “O” shape toward yourself so it creates a waterfall look on the outside. Then, use your handy rubber band or hair tie and secure that bit of fabric, allowing the front of your shirt to drape.
Tuck It In
There are lots of different ways you can tuck in a shirt, and your choice will depend on the vibe you’re going for. If you want that very 90s look, you can do a full tuck and then lightly tug the shirt out so you have a little extra room. For a serious mom look, you can fully tuck the shirt in without creating any extra room. Finally, for the more sophisticated among us, opt for the French tuck.
Chances are you’ve heard of the French tuck, but if you haven’t, this is an effortless and fashionable way to elevate your look. The French have a sense of style that is easy and always put together. They never look like they’ve tried too hard or are overdone. That’s why the French tuck is the perfect tuck.
Layers Anyone?
Anyone who was around for the early 2000s remembers this trend from the first time around. Maybe you remember ‘borrowing’ your dad’s Pink Floyd t-shirt and wearing your favorite burnout long-sleeved tee under it. Whatever your memories surrounding this trend, you can create fun layers with any oversized t-shirt you have and any slightly more form-fitting layer beneath. When thinking about layering, patterns and color are key. Choose a contrasting or bright color. A fun and funky pattern works, too: in fact, they’re basically a requirement.
If you’re thinking about layering a long-sleeved t-shirt, don’t skip on texture. Patterns and colors are an obvious choice, but waffle knits, a raised wavy knit, or woven patterns add a new and interesting dimension to your styling.
You could even add a sleeveless mock neck or turtleneck shirt underneath your oversized one (dickies, anyone?). Finally, employ your new tucking techniques, and employ a partial French tuck into your straight-leg jeans.
If you’re super into the idea of layering and you like a vintage look, throw on a plaid button-up shirt over your big t-shirt. This gives you a grunge look, especially with a pair of ripped medium-wash jeans. If you want to add a little more edge to your look, go with tight denim on the bottom, and a boxy, cut-off leather jacket for that little bit of punk.
It’s All in the Styling
Styling changes a look completely, and that’s especially true for something as simple as an oversized t-shirt. You can add a structured blazer to give an element of class without looking stuffy. Just remember to stick to classic neutrals if your t-shirt is busy, or pick a color that is contrasting. Wear the t-shirt flowing, tucked in, or partially tucked – just consider the vibe you’re going for.
If your shirt is oversized enough or has a deep collar or scoop, you could consider going for an off-the-shoulder moment for a little spice. Add a little structure with a belt if you so choose, or just let the shoulder speak for itself.
Dress It Up
An oversized t-shirt is comfy, but it can be dressed up too. Wear with nice or brightly colored slacks, a classic structured blazer, sparkly accessories, or a nice structured bag. Pair any of these things with a nice pair of heels for the ultimate dressy look. Additionally, pop your oversized t-shirt on top of a silk slip dress for both texture and sophistication.
For another take, if your t-shirt is oversized enough, you can just wear it like a t-shirt dress from the early 2000s, albeit a little bit shorter than the earlier style. With a pair of bike shorts underneath, you don’t have to worry about a fashion slip, and you can still feel like you’re in a dress.
Dress It Down
If you’re not heading out on the town, skip the heels and go with sweats or jeans. Add some cool sneakers to your sweats for a very dressed-down look. Or, choose loose-fitting denim and those same sneakers for a casual but still put-together look. Track pants are another Y2K style that’s back with a vengeance; pair your oversized t-shirt with track pants for the absolute ultimate in comfy style.
Mix It Up
There’s nothing wrong with a pattern, especially if your t-shirt isn’t super busy. Whether you choose to throw on a funky jacket, a bright patterned long-sleeved shirt underneath, or a dainty patterned pair of silky pants, mixing up your pattern choices adds a serious element of style that basic black jeans or denim shorts just can’t.
Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize
We’ve talked a little about accessories, but it’s important to really think about how the right accessories can make your look. The right shoes, bag, or jewelry can definitely make an outfit. Chunky sneakers, heels, or an oversized tee with knee-high boots can create three different looks out of the same shirt and pants.
Your bag can also change your entire vibe. A structured, leather-style tote back can make your look more refined, while a slouchy crossbody or a fanny pack will look much more casual.
Small bags aren’t as big on the scene as they used to be– bigger bags are on trend. You’ll look up-to-date, and you’ll have plenty of room for snacks.
Wear Your ‘Fit With Style
The most important thing when it comes to styling your oversized t-shirt is thinking about your own personal style. If you like bright colors, incorporate that into your everyday look; if you like to go a little more classic, stick to the styles that suit that aesthetic. We always recommend testing out new styles and trying things just a little out of your comfort zone to see what you feel the best in.
Last but not least, know that fashion and style are always a matter of opinion. Here at NamaSlay Crew, we support wearing what makes you feel best. Whether you love a laid-back vibe or want a look that makes you feel put together, we’re cheering you on babes!
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