Master the art of styling oversized clothing: maintain your shape with these fashion tips

Master the Art of Styling Oversized Clothing: Maintain Your Shape with These Fashion Tips

In the world of fashion, oversized clothing has become a staple in many wardrobes, offering a blend of comfort and style. However, the key to pulling off this trend lies in how you style these pieces to maintain your body shape and elevate your overall look. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master the art of styling oversized clothing.

Understanding the Basics of Oversized Fashion

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of styling, it’s essential to understand what makes oversized clothing work. The oversized trend is not just about wearing loose-fitting clothes; it’s about creating a balanced look that flatters your body.

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The Importance of Proportion

When wearing oversized clothing, maintaining proportion is crucial. For women, a common rule is to pair an oversized top with fitted bottoms. For example, an oversized jacket can be paired with a fitted mini skirt or sculpted leggings to keep your body’s proportions intact[1].

For men, the principle is similar. Stylist Sarah-Ann Murray advises, “With an oversized coat, for example, you might want to wear it over a more fitted jumper, tee or shirt and slimmer jeans and have just one item which offers the movement and oversized lines”[3].

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Styling Oversized Tops

Oversized shirts and hoodies can be particularly challenging to style, but with the right techniques, they can become a chic addition to your wardrobe.

6 Easy Tricks for Styling Oversized Shirts

Here are six easy tricks to make your oversized shirts look stylish:

• Do a Front Tuck (aka: Partial Tuck, French Tuck, Half Tuck)
  This is a simple way to add definition to your outfit. By tucking the front of the shirt into your pants or skirt, you create a more defined waistline and break up the bulk of the oversized top[2].

• Tie a Knot
  Adding a knot to your oversized shirt can instantly elevate your look. This works particularly well with stretchy or button-down shirts. It adds a casual yet stylish touch to your outfit[2].

• Make a Twist Knot
  Similar to the regular knot, a twist knot adds a bit more flair. It’s a great way to create a unique design element in your outfit without any sewing or cutting[2].

• Use the Coin Trick to Cinch
  This trick involves using a coin to create a makeshift button or cinch at the waist. It helps to make the shirt tighter around your waist, giving you a more defined silhouette[2].

• Roll Up the Sleeves
  If the sleeves of your oversized shirt are too long, rolling them up can make the shirt look more fitted and stylish. This also adds a casual touch to your outfit[2].

• Tie a Knot in Your Button Down Shirts
  For button-down shirts, tying a knot at the bottom can create a casual yet chic look. Pair this with a skirt or fitted pants for a balanced outfit[2].

Styling Oversized Dresses and Outerwear

Oversized dresses and outerwear can be just as stylish as tops, provided you know how to balance them.

How to Style Oversized Dresses

When it comes to oversized dresses, the key is to switch up the silhouette to suit your body shape. Here are some tips:

• Belt It
  Belting an oversized dress can help define your waist and elongate your legs. Ensure the dress hits at the right point on your leg, such as above the knee for shorter dresses or just below the shin for midi dresses[1].

• Choose the Right Sleeves
  Oversized balloon sleeves can give a classic and elevated statement look. This style can add drama to your outfit while maintaining a chic appearance[1].

How to Style Oversized Jackets and Coats

Oversized jackets and coats can add a stylish layer to your outfit, but they need to be styled correctly.

• Size Wisely
  When opting for an oversized blazer or coat, it’s important not to go too oversized. Sizing up by one or two sizes in regular fit blazers or coats, or sticking to your usual size if the blazer/coat is already oversized, can help avoid a boxy look[1].

• Balance with Fitted Layers
  Keep your base layers fitted or cropped to maintain your silhouette. Drop shoulder detailing on oversized coats or jackets can also help show off your shape[1].

For men, Murray suggests, “Purposefully oversized pieces provide the additional structure you need to avoid looking like all your clothes have stretched on the hanger which just looks scruffy. You want the items to be oversized in the correct places, like the shoulders and the waist”[3].

Balancing Your Outfit

Balancing your outfit is crucial when wearing oversized clothing. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:

Pairing with Fitted Pieces

Pairing oversized pieces with fitted items is a fail-safe way to maintain your body shape. For example, an oversized hoodie or sweatshirt paired with sculpted leggings creates a balanced and stylish look[1].

For men, pairing an oversized coat with a fitted jumper, tee, or shirt and slimmer jeans achieves a similar balance. This ensures that your outfit does not look too bulky or mismatched[3].

Choosing the Right Fabric

The fabric of your oversized clothing can also make a difference. French terry, for instance, is a comfortable and stylish choice for hoodies and sweatshirts. It provides a soft texture while maintaining a chic look[1].

Adding Accessories

Accessories can elevate your oversized outfit. For women, adding jewelry, a chic mini bag, and heels can make an oversized shirt look feminine and stylish[1].

For men, a minimal, neutral tee paired with a fitted jacket or a leather jacket can add a sleek touch to an oversized outfit. A pop of color with accessories like a scarf or a hat can also enhance the look without overwhelming it[3].

Streetwear and Oversized Fashion

Streetwear has significantly influenced the oversized fashion trend, making it more accessible and stylish.

Streetwear Essentials

Streetwear staples like oversized hoodies, bomber jackets, and baggy jeans are now high-fashion items. These pieces can be styled in various ways to create different looks.

• Oversized Hoodies
  Oversized hoodies are a staple in streetwear. They can be paired with fitted pants or skirts for a balanced look. Adding a few rolls to the hem of the sleeves can avoid the arms looking weedy[3].

• Bomber Jackets
  Bomber jackets are another streetwear favorite. They can be worn over an oversized shirt or dress to add a stylish layer. The key is to balance the look with fitted bottoms[3].

Practical Insights and Actionable Advice

Here are some practical tips and actionable advice to help you style your oversized clothing effectively:

Shop Wisely

When shopping for oversized clothing, ensure that the pieces are designed to be oversized rather than just being too big. Purposefully oversized pieces provide the necessary structure to avoid looking scruffy[3].

Consider the Price and Quality

While it’s tempting to go for cheaper options, investing in quality fabric and well-designed oversized pieces can make a significant difference in how stylish your outfit looks. Quality fabric ensures comfort and durability, making the price worth it.

Experiment with Different Looks

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles. Try out various combinations of oversized and fitted pieces to find what works best for you. Here are a few examples:

• Oversized Shirt with Fitted Skirt
  Pair an oversized shirt with a fitted mini skirt for a chic and balanced look. Add some jewelry and heels to elevate the outfit[1].

• Oversized Hoodie with Sculpted Leggings
  Wear an oversized hoodie with sculpted leggings for a comfortable yet stylish look. This is perfect for casual outings or athleisure wear[1].

• Oversized Coat with Fitted Jumper and Jeans
  Pair an oversized coat with a fitted jumper, tee, or shirt and slimmer jeans for a balanced and stylish winter look[3].

Table: Comparing Styling Tips for Men and Women

Here is a comparative table highlighting the key styling tips for men and women when it comes to oversized clothing:

Quotes and Expert Advice

Here are some quotes and expert advice to further guide you in styling your oversized clothing:

• Sarah-Ann Murray on Oversized Suits:
  “As long as it fits on the shoulders, the arm and trouser length, and proportionally at the waist, and the rest of the proportions are correct so it is not too short in the jacket, then a deconstructed oversized suit, especially double-breasted, can absolutely work.”[3]

• On Balancing Oversized Pieces:
  “For the most part, you need to balance out the look with a slimmer fit elsewhere. With an oversized coat, for example, you might want to wear it over a more fitted jumper, tee or shirt and slimmer jeans and have just one item which offers the movement and oversized lines.”[3]

Styling oversized clothing is an art that requires balance, proportion, and a bit of creativity. By following these tips, you can elevate your look, maintain your body shape, and enjoy the comfort and style that oversized fashion offers. Whether you’re into streetwear, casual wear, or even formal wear, there’s an oversized piece out there for you. So, go ahead, experiment with different styles, and find what works best for your wardrobe and your personal style.

With oversized clothing, it’s not just about wearing loose-fitting clothes; it’s about creating a look that is both stylish and comfortable. By mastering the art of styling oversized clothing, you can ensure that your outfit is always on point, no matter the occasion.