how to style an oversized button-up

How to Style an Oversized Button-Up: Outfit Ideas

How to style an oversized button-up: Outfit ideas and oversized Button-up recommendations.

Oversized button-up shirts are the fashion equivalent of comfort food—they’re cozy, versatile, and an absolute wardrobe staple. Whether you’re aiming for that effortlessly chic vibe or just want to hide the aftermath of a carb-heavy meal, this timeless piece is the ultimate go-to. But, believe it or not, the oversized button-up isn’t some recent trend that TikTok influencers randomly discovered. It has a history and an iconic place in fashion.

From Men’s Closets to Women’s Must-Have

how to style an oversized button-up

The oversized button-up shirt has its roots in menswear, originating from classic work attire dating back to the early 20th century. Think of icons like Katharine Hepburn in the 1940s—who was famous for wearing tailored trousers and oversized shirts long before it was cool—or the androgynous fashion moments of the 1980s, when women began to raid their boyfriend’s closets for oversized silhouettes.

how to style an oversized button-up

By the 1990s, fashion icons like the Olsen twins and Kate Moss brought the oversized look back into the spotlight, often pairing oversized shirts with skinny jeans or thigh-high boots.

how to style an oversized button-up

Fast forward to today, and the oversized button-up is everywhere, from the streets to Instagram feeds, loved for its comfort, versatility, and effortlessly chic vibe.

how to style an oversized button-up

In 2024, this trend is making a major comeback. With a focus on minimalism and sustainability, more women are opting for oversized fits because they’re easy to style, comfortable, and can last beyond seasonal trends. It’s time to embrace that borrowed-from-the-boys look and elevate your wardrobe with this timeless essential.

Why You Need an Oversized Button-Up in Your Life

how to style an oversized button-up

Besides the obvious factor that you’ll look like a street-style star, there are a ton of practical reasons to add an oversized button-up shirt to your wardrobe. Here are a few:

Effortlessly Casual But Still Trendy

The beauty of an oversized button-up is its simplicity. You don’t have to try too hard to look chic. Whether you’re pairing it with skinny jeans, leggings, or tucked into high-waisted shorts, it has that “I woke up like this” vibe that’s both stylish and relaxed.

Perfect for Those Bloated Days

We’ve all been there—whether you had an extra slice of pizza last night or it’s just one of those mornings where nothing feels right, the oversized button-up is your secret weapon. It’s loose, flowy, and gives you all the coverage you need to feel comfortable while still looking put-together.

Ideal for Transitional Weather

Ever have those days where it’s chilly, but not quite cold enough for a coat? An oversized button-up is the perfect solution. It layers well over a tank top or tee and can even be worn under a lightweight jacket or blazer for an extra dose of warmth.

Great for Physical Activities

Heading to yoga or just planning a sporty day out? An oversized button-up can be thrown over your activewear for an effortlessly chic athleisure look. You can tie it at the waist or wear it open for a casual yet polished vibe.

An All-Purpose Wardrobe Staple

No matter the season, an oversized button-up can fit right into your outfit rotation. Tuck it into jeans for work, tie it over a dress for a beachy vibe, or belt it for a more structured silhouette. The options are endless!

How to Style an Oversized Button-Up for Any Occasion

Now that we’ve established how amazing this wardrobe staple is, let’s dive into how you can style it for different occasions.

For Work: Chic & Professional

how to style an oversized button-up

To keep things professional, opt for a crisp, white oversized button-up tucked into a pair of high-waisted tailored trousers. Add a statement belt and classic pumps to elevate the look. For colder weather, layer it under a blazer for a modern take on office chic. Don’t forget some delicate jewelry, like gold hoop earrings or a layered necklace, to complete the look.

Pro Tip: Go for structured fabrics like cotton or linen to keep the shirt looking sharp and not sloppy.

Errand Day: Casual Comfort

how to style an oversized button-up

Running errands doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Throw on an oversized button-up over a pair of comfy leggings or biker shorts. Leave the shirt open and wear a cute cropped tank or tee underneath for a laid-back, cool vibe. Pair with sneakers, a stylish hat, and a crossbody bag to keep it functional.

Pro Tip: Roll up the sleeves and accessorize with a cap or sunglasses to give it that effortless “model off-duty” look.

Daytime Brunch: Breezy & Feminine

how to style an oversized button-up

For a relaxed daytime look, pair your oversized button-up with a flirty skirt. Whether it’s a flowy maxi or a mini skirt, the combination creates a perfectly balanced look. For a bolder look, add a cinch belt at the waist to wear your oversized button-up as a dress, and finish it off with strappy sandals and a small purse.

Pro Tip: Choose a pastel-colored shirt or one with a soft pattern (like stripes or polka dots) for a breezy, feminine feel.

Date Night: Sophisticated & Sexy

how to style an oversized button-up

For date night, amp up the sultry vibes by styling your oversized button-up with high-waisted leather pants, jeans, or a sleek skirt. Loosely tuck in the shirt and leave a few buttons undone for a flirty neckline. Pair with statement earrings and strappy heels for a look that says “effortlessly sexy.”

Pro Tip: Opt for a satin or silk button-up for that extra touch of elegance and glamour.

Oversized Button-Ups You’ll Love

Now that you’re inspired to style your oversized button-up in a million different ways, here are five top-rated options on Amazon that will take your wardrobe game to the next level.

Amazon Essentials Women’s Long-Sleeve Button-Down Shirt

how to style an oversized button-up

With over 5,000 ratings, this oversized button-up is praised for its lightweight material and classic fit. Available in various colors, it’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own. It’s a versatile and affordable all-around top for everyday wear.

AISEW Womens Button Down Shirts

how to style an oversized button-up

The womens striped button up shirt is lightweight, durable and comfortable to wear. Made out of high quality 80% cotton + 20% polyester, it’s a super comfortable yet sturdy fit great for formal occasions like work, office outfits, business meetings, and job interviews.

Dokotoo Womens Color Block Button Down Shirts

how to style an oversized button-up

This best-seller has thousands of glowing reviews for its comfort and modern-chic look. It’s soft, lightweight, and features all combinations of trendy color blocks to add some style to your over-sized, boyfriend, button-up shirt.

PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Casual Button-Up Shirt

how to style an oversized button-up

This oversized button-up is all about effortless cool and comfort. It features a loose fit, ribbed knit pattern and is perfect for the colder months, easily layering over leggings or skinny jeans for that laid-back, fall vibe.

Blooming Jelly Women’s Button Down Flannel Shirt

how to style an oversized button-up

This stylish, over-sized plaid shirt for women comes with collared, button front, long sleeves with button closure cuffs, and is close to the knee-length. Perfect for days you want to cover up while still looking cute and stylish. It can be worn as a sweater, tunic shirt, or even a dress.

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