Incredible Options For When A Shirt Is Too Big
It’s no secret that I am a fix-it girl. So when I read a comment recently about what to do with a shirt that is too big, I was all over it.
In fact, I found many easy examples from older blog articles, and then I also included 2 that are extremely creative.
Quote of the day: “All mistakes teach us something, so there are, in reality, no mistakes.” Nikki Giovanni
Since the silhouettes have flipped over these last couple of years from a big top and slim bottom to a shorter, fitted top and flowy bottoms, it is nice to find ways to wear what is in your closet. Sure, you can purge the old and buy new, but there are more budget-oriented and eco-conscious ideas around.
There’s no reason to throw out all of those shirts that are too big. I’m showing 10+ ideas that will take those tops and make them perfect for your baggier pants or flowier skirts.
Insider tip: You can always find an oversized top by buying something in a size larger than normal. Or check the guy’s section. If you are budget-oriented, look for them when thrifting.
I love finding fixes for your clothing items as shown by this collection of other articles
- How to style a dress that is too short
- Dress too small?
- Are my pants too tight?
- How to style an oversized shirt
- Oversized sweater outfit ideas
- How to wear a long sleeve blouse in summer
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Layering- Shorter over Longer
You can layer over an oversized shirt with a shorter tank top, vest, or cropped top. This puts the focus on the smaller items and changes up the look nicely.
Layering-Use the Shirt that is too Big OVER a Shirt
Of course, you can use the shirt that is too big as a layering item. Usually, it behooves you to tame the big shirt, and for this example, I buttoned the lowest button behind me so it’s not overwhelming in the front.
I even made a video showcase of this idea.
Layering-Over the Bottom Half
Remember that you can layer over the bottom half of your outfit too. A maxi or midi skirt is perfect for donning over a shirt that is too big.
This “shirt” is actually a caftan.
Tie the Front Panels
One of my favorite tricks is to pull in the sides of a shirt that is too big and gather them at the waist of your body.
For the examples above, I used 2 different methods.
- On the left: I used a clear elastic to gather the ends and then used an adjustable finger ring over top for decor.
- On the right: I used a scarf clip and even added a clip-on earring for decoration.
Knot the Extra Material
If your shirt doesn’t button or open in the front, you can still gather the extra material to create a more fitted version of the top. I used a hair elastic in the above example.
There are different options for this look:
- Gather the extra material on the side of your body
- Have the material in the center front and tuck it into your pants
- Create the gather in the middle of your back and tuck it under the shirt.
Insider tip: The above options work differently depending on the material of the top and how tight you make it.
Beware: If you’re sitting in the car or a seat for an extended period of time, the back method is not the most comfortable.
Don’t forget that you can gather the material on the inside of the item too so the knot doesn’t show Instead you get a ruched look.
Tuck it Across
Any cardigan, kimono or button up shirt can be tucked across your body as a wrap instead of keeping the ends tucked vertically.
Fold Material and Use Magnets
If the shirt is bigger than big, you can fold the extra material (including the collar) under itself and then use magnets to keep it closed.
This top was styled in 4 other ways.
Insider tip: Magnets are wonderful for holding material together without creating a hole. I’ve used them in a variety of ways in the past. They can be found on Amazon.
Shirt Too Big? Belt It
Another great option to wear your shirt that is too big is to only button a couple of buttons in the middle and then belt it.
Let it hang open as much as possible so it creates angles and interest.
Insider tip: This might be the best time for a bigger/wider belt to hide some of the extra material that gathers up. Make it a focal point.
BUT, don’t automatically assume your smaller belts won’t work. Give them a try too.
BTW, this is not the best example. Having shorts that are the same length as the shirt makes it strange. And then the opening on the bottom almost looks like hanging ties from the belt. But it’s not.
Button Half and Knot the Ends
You can button any number of buttons on an oversized shirt and then contain the ends by tying them up.
For the above example, I used clear elastics on each side.
Obviously, you don’t have to show midriff when you do this.
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Unusual Ideas of How to Change a Shirt That Is Too Big
The 2 ideas below are where you get extremely creative with your shirt that is too big.
It comes from the mindset that a shirt is just a piece of material sewn into a shape.
Insider tip: I’ve been told that it’s silly to wear your clothing this way, but I will argue that it’s good for your intellect. Playing with your clothes creates new pathways in your brain. And that’s one way to keep you feeling younger.
BTW, I wore a half-tee under both of these options for the convenience of changing in the car. I actually like it and that idea (or any fitted shirt) could be easier for you than wearing a backless bra.
Insider detail: Halftees are great options for coverage and modesty. I am an affiliate and can offer a discount with code Jtouch20.
Upside Down
I copied this idea from a style hack video.
You turn the shirt upside down and backward (so that the collar is your waistband in the front) and wrap the sleeves around. My sleeves would not span my waist, so I used a sweater shawl clip (found on Amazon) to create more length. It is hidden as I folded the material in the front over it.
To close up the “cowl” in the front, I used a two-prong clip (found on Amazon or reach out to Just Be Youtiful which is where I bought this one). This holds the material together without putting a hole in the fabric.
Sleeves around your neck
Another hack I found on Instagram from this video.
In the original video example, she uses a different type of sweater clip which I forgot to include in my wardrobe setup for these photos.
Instead, I used a clear elastic and attached one end to some of the extra material on the front panel of the shirt.
Insider tip: If it doesn’t work out one way, don’t get discouraged. You can change this style in many ways to make it your own. That’s why I love having all sorts of “Tools of the Trade” to play around with.
My Goal
Thank you for visiting my space on the internet. I like to showcase how it’s never too late to look great for women of any age, size, or working with any kind of budget.
I feel I’m here to help move beyond the fashion rules of yesterday and evolve. Style and clothes are made to give you joy. Not cause us stress because we are worried about what others think.
Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
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