How to Style a Shirt: Different Ways

A shirt is one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Whether it’s a classic button-down, a relaxed T-shirt, or a stylish blouse, shirts can be styled in countless ways to suit every occasion.

how to style a shirt

This blog explores creative and trendy ways to style shirts for work, casual outings, special occasions, and everything in between.


The Importance of a Good Shirt

Shirts are wardrobe essentials because of their adaptability and timeless appeal. Investing in high-quality shirts ensures longevity, style, and comfort.

Types of Shirts to Consider

  1. Button-Down Shirts
    • Perfect for formal and semi-formal occasions.
  2. T-Shirts
    • The ultimate casual staple, available in various colors and prints.
  3. Oversized Shirts
    • Great for layering or creating a relaxed, laid-back look.
  4. Blouses
    • Feminine and stylish, ideal for work or elegant outings.
  5. Flannel Shirts
    • Perfect for adding a touch of casual cool to your outfit.

Styling Shirts for Everyday Wear

With Jeans

  1. Classic Pairing
    • Tuck a button-down shirt into straight-leg jeans for an effortless, polished look.
  2. Graphic T-Shirts
    • Style a graphic tee with ripped or skinny jeans for a relaxed vibe.
  3. Oversized Shirts
    • Wear an oversized shirt with slim-fit jeans for a balanced silhouette.

With Shorts

  1. Tied at the Waist
    • Knot a T-shirt or button-down shirt at the waist and pair it with high-waisted shorts.
  2. Layering Over a Tank Top
    • Wear an unbuttoned shirt over a tank top and denim shorts for a breezy summer look.

With Skirts

  1. Tucked into a Pencil Skirt
    • A fitted button-down shirt tucked into a pencil skirt creates a chic office outfit.
  2. With Maxi Skirts
    • Pair a relaxed T-shirt with a flowy maxi skirt for a bohemian vibe.
  3. Cropped Shirts with Mini Skirts
    • Combine a cropped shirt with a mini skirt for a playful, modern outfit.

Dressing Up a Shirt for Work

Under Blazers

  1. Crisp Button-Down
    • Wear a tailored button-down shirt under a structured blazer for a professional look.
  2. Monochromatic Style
    • Pair a shirt and blazer in similar tones for a sleek, cohesive outfit.

With Tailored Trousers

  1. Classic White Shirt
    • Style a white button-down with tailored trousers for a timeless, elegant ensemble.
  2. Silk Blouses
    • Opt for a silk shirt with wide-leg trousers for a polished, sophisticated look.

Layered with Sweaters

  1. Collared Shirt Under a Sweater
    • Let the collar of your button-down shirt peek out from under a crewneck sweater.
  2. Half-Tucked Look
    • Tuck in the front of the shirt while leaving the back untucked for a modern edge.

Shirts for Evening and Special Occasions

With Statement Accessories

  1. Bold Necklaces
    • Style a plain shirt with a bold necklace to elevate the look for a night out.
  2. Earrings and Bracelets
    • Pair a dressy blouse with statement earrings and bangles for added glamour.

Tucked into High-Waisted Bottoms

  1. Silk Shirts with High-Waisted Pants
    • Create an elegant silhouette by tucking a silk shirt into high-waisted trousers.
  2. Shirts and Midi Skirts
    • Style a blouse with a fitted midi skirt for a sophisticated dinner outfit.

Casual Weekend Looks with Shirts

Layering with Outerwear

  1. Denim Jackets
    • Pair a simple T-shirt with a denim jacket and casual sneakers for a relaxed look.
  2. Leather Jackets
    • Style a button-down shirt with a leather jacket for a mix of edgy and chic.

Knotted Styles

  1. Knotted Button-Downs
    • Knot the bottom of your button-down shirt and pair it with relaxed joggers or shorts.
  2. T-Shirts as Crop Tops
    • Tie a knot at the front of your T-shirt and wear it with high-waisted bottoms.

Seasonal Styling Tips for Shirts

Spring

  1. Floral Blouses
    • Pair floral shirts with pastel skirts or trousers for a fresh spring look.
  2. Light Layers
    • Wear a lightweight button-down shirt over a tank top.

Summer

  1. Linen Shirts
    • Opt for breathable linen shirts and style them with shorts or skirts.
  2. Beach Cover-Ups
    • Use oversized shirts as cover-ups over swimsuits.

Fall

  1. Flannel Shirts
    • Pair flannel shirts with jeans and boots for a cozy autumn outfit.
  2. Layered Looks
    • Wear a shirt under a cardigan or trench coat.

Winter

  1. Turtlenecks and Shirts
    • Layer a turtleneck under a button-down shirt for added warmth.
  2. Oversized Shirts and Sweaters
    • Combine an oversized shirt with a chunky sweater and leggings.

Shirts for Streetwear Looks

Oversized Shirts

  1. With Biker Shorts
    • Style an oversized shirt with biker shorts for a trendy streetwear look.
  2. Layered with Hoodies
    • Layer an oversized shirt under a hoodie for an urban vibe.

Graphic T-Shirts

  1. With Joggers
    • Pair a graphic tee with joggers and sneakers for a casual, sporty look.
  2. Under Denim Vests
    • Wear a graphic T-shirt under a denim vest for a retro-inspired outfit.

Accessorizing Your Shirt

  1. Scarves
    • Add a scarf to your shirt for a pop of color and style.
  2. Belts
    • Cinch oversized shirts at the waist with a belt for a flattering shape.
  3. Hats
    • Pair shirts with hats like fedoras or baseball caps for added flair.

Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Ignoring Fit
    • Choose shirts that complement your body type for a polished look.
  2. Overloading Accessories
    • Keep accessories minimal for a clean and stylish outfit.
  3. Not Experimenting with Layers
    • Utilize shirts for creative layering to add depth to your outfits.

Final Thoughts

Shirts are a wardrobe staple with endless styling possibilities. Whether you’re aiming for a casual, professional, or evening look, there are countless ways to incorporate shirts into your outfits.

Use these tips to experiment with your wardrobe and create versatile, stylish ensembles that reflect your personality.

Hi, I'm Robert Jameson. I'm a textile engineer. As a textile engineer, I design & create fabric. When I'm not busy with my family members, I research, write, and edit content for Fabric Fits.

Leave a Comment