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How to style an oversized shirt for maximum chic this summer


The limits are endless for this versatile piece...


oversized shirt© Photo: Getty Images
Clare Pennington
Clare PenningtonHello Fashion Editor
Updated: June 30, 2025
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When it comes to versatility, there are few pieces more infinitely useful than an oversized shirt. Curating a timeless capsule wardrobe is all about sourcing staples that are worth their weight in gold, capable of offering steadfast adaptability in the face of a style crisis.

And who doesn't like the idea of slinging an oversized shirt on - come rain or shine, the versatile piece is a wardrobe hero for good reason.

In need of an impromptu beach cover up? Seeking something to layer under a knitted vest? Desperately requiring a light, airy jacket to throw on over a mini dress? You get the picture, the list is endless. 

Style an oversized shirt with…cycling shorts

 

Oversized Shirt Shorts Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

If, like us, your cycling shorts have never before encountered the saddle of a bike, taking them for a spin on the streets might be your best chance of getting some wear out of them. Combat the vibrancy of a neon shade with a crisp white high-low hem shirt à la Caroline Ebo.

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Poplin extreme cuff oversized shirt in white, £30.00, ASOS

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Style an oversized shirt as…a dress

Oversized Shirt Dress Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

 

Ex-Victoria's Secret model Elsa Hosk has the right idea, styling a striped shirt from her own clothing line with a classic tan belt and gold strappy sandals.

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We The Free Freddie Striped Shirt, £118.00, Free People

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Style an oversized shirt under… a sweater vest

Oversized Shirt Vest Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

Maxine Wylde served a look that would turn Harry Styles green with envy, sporting a baby pink knitted vest over a white frill collar shirt by Blanca Studio. 

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Elise blouse - white with red piping, £65.00, Damson Madder

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Style an oversized shirt under… a corset

Oversized Shirt Corset Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

 

Fashion blogger Aimee Song knocked it out of the park at Dior's SS23 show, styling a jacquard corset over the top of an oversized shirt.

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The weekend shirt £120.00, With Nothing Underneath

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Style an oversized shirt with…straight-leg jeans

Oversized Shirt Straight Leg Jeans Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

Model Sofia Richie served a masterclass in ultra-flattering cuts recently when she stepped out in New York wearing an oversized shirt with straight-leg jeans and contrast toe cap shoes.

anine bing shirt

Will oversized shirt, £128, Reformation

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Style an oversized shirt as…a jacket

Oversized Shirt Jacket Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

 

This season we're following Miu Miu's lead and championing the micro top. As influencer Enna demonstrates, a dark denim shirt with contrasting topstitching is the perfect layering piece to pair with Prada's white nylon bralette.

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RI Studio White Stripe Cocoon Sleeve Shirt, £55.00, River Island

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Style an oversized shirt…backwards

Oversized Shirt Backwards Outfit© Photo: Getty Images

Prepare to have your mind blown. We're taking style tips from model Marine Deleeuw who ingeniously hit reverse on her wide-collar oversized shirt and wore it backwards with a thick belt to cinch in her waist. Bit trippy, but we're defo into it.

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Green Girlfriend Oversized Long Sleeve Shirt, £25.00, Next

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HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.

How we chose:

Aesthetic: Shirts are a undeniable wardrobe staple but that doesn't mean they can't also be glorious to behold. 

Price: I've selected items from a wide range of price points to try and suit most budgets, without compromising on quality. 

Why you should trust me?

Working in fashion is simultaneously the best and worst thing that’s ever happened to me because spending all day surrounded by gorgeous pieces and trends lit a fire under my (already substantial) shopping habit. I love to shop. I live to shop, and summer ensembles are my jam. In a previous life, I worked in Personal Shopping, and I’m the person to take out with you if you want to be wholeheartedly talked into a purchase.

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