How To Style a Shirt: 8 Stylish Ways

I think it’s fair to say that most people own a good solid t-shirt (or two!) It’s hard to know when it’s appropriate to dress your favorite blouse up or down. If you are searching for new ways to freshen up your style, then look no further. I am here to give you all the simple style tips to make your worn-in shirts feel brand new.

Whether you are going out on the town or having a cozy night in, it’s essential to look and feel your best. Sometimes it may all come down to how a shirt may look or feel on you, and a lot of that feel comes down to how it is styled. Not sure where to start? I’ve got you.

Here are my top eight ways to style a shirt for any occasion:

5 Ways To Dress Up a Shirt 

Are you going to an event that's nicer but not so nice that you need to put on a dress and heels? Stuck on what to pull from your closet? Believe it or not, there are many different ways to dress up your favorite shirt for any occasion.

Sometimes the solution is adding a jacket or blazer, but other times it’s a simple styling choice that could come down to something as small as the way a shirt is tucked in.

Let’s dive into some styling tips to dress up any shirt: 

Tuck and Go 

One easy way to style any shirt quickly is a simple tuck move. This is especially helpful if the shirt that you have is a little long for your liking. All you need is a relaxed sports bra to wear underneath and your favorite long shirt or sweater. Take the bottom half of the hem of the shirt or sweater and tuck it gently into the base of your bra. This will give you an effortless comfy look without being long and bulky. 

Add a Blazer

A simple way to dress up any blouse is to add a blazer. This is also a great way to add a pop of color without going too crazy with your outfit.

Blazers are always great in casual or professional settings; they kind of bring in the whole outfit in a subtle and solid way. You can never go wrong with a good blazer; it’s a staple to own for sure. 

Pair with a Skirt

A classic and timeless way to dress up a simple blouse is always with a skirt. Skirts can be very versatile and bring a lot of style to any get-up.

No matter your length of preference, skirts are great for a variety of occasions and are comfy to wear in lots of different settings. High-fashion skirts are also a neat way to add some color or even a pattern, depending on the setting and occasion. 

Tie Up a Button-Down

Let’s talk about button-down shirts. Once they were a statement of formality, but I love how these shirts have become more universal. Here, I combine the two by tying the ends of a button-down together. 

Simply button the shirt down, but stop around three buttons from the bottom. Tie the ends together, and you’re set. Now you have an effortless cropped look. This is a great way to utilize some texture in your outfit, especially for capri-length pants or high-waisted trousers.

The tie is also a great option when it’s really hot and sunny out to help you cool down (and look cute while doing it!) 

Button-Down + Dress Combo 

A surprisingly cute and comfy combo will always be the button-up and dress combo. You can utilize a bunch of different style techniques all with this one outfit.

Put on your fav dress and then slip on a button-down. You can tie the shirt as I mentioned above or leave the button-down open for a cool girl look. You really can’t go wrong with this look! 

Subtly Luxe Outfits: 3 Ways To “Style Down” Your Favorite Shirt 

One thing that I believe is crucial to any closet is a piece or two of clothing that is reserved for special occasions or is made of high-quality material or a high-profile designer brand. A small way to make an appearance is with one of these staple pieces.

Here are three ways to utilize and appropriately use that one piece of clothing in casual settings. 

Don’t Doubt Denim 

You can never go wrong with a classic pair of blue jeans or even a denim jacket to pair with your favorite shirt. Blue jeans or a jacket instantly make your outfit feel more casual and more relaxed.

Pair your favorite luxe top with a pair of jeans or a denim coat to complete your look for any occasion or event. Or, a solid-colored top pairs well with a duo of denim for a timeless classic look. 

Hats for Days 

A great way to style any outfit or shirt is easily a hat. I recommend a good ole baseball hat or wide-brimmed hat to top off any look. If it’s extra chilly outside, you can never go wrong with a cozy beanie. Hats are stylish and cute and can really help bring an outfit to fruition.

Accessories, in general, are good to have with a simple but a luxurious blouse and can really help complete your look for whatever event you may be going to. I recommend a neutral brown or beige to dress down your final look. 

Add a Casual Bag

One of the best accessories to pair with any shirt or outfit is your favorite casual bag. Not only is it a functional accessory, but it’s a great way to round out any outfit and neutralize your outfit (especially if your pants or dress don’t have pockets).

 My go-to casual bag is a classic cross-body bag, either a brown or black leather or an off-the-shoulder canvas material bag in a neutral beige or a subtle color. 

Less Is More

Wherever life takes you, it’s important to go in style! Whether it’s a first date, a night out with friends, or even just a relaxing day at home… feeling comfortable in your own skin and style should be a priority. One of the best ways to do that is by learning your favorite way to style your favorite shirt or accessorize an outfit.

Whether you find yourself doing a simple tuck or experimenting with ground-breaking colors and trends, it’s important to find a style and look that truly shows you and your personality.

At the end of the day, you wear the clothes, not the other way around. Go and explore different patterns and trends until you find the ones that really represent you and what you are all about, and style accordingly. The best part is, there is no right or wrong to fashion…so find what works for you and rock it! 

Sources: 

9 Easy Hacks To Tuck In Your Clothes Like A Fashion Pro | Miss Malini 

The Button-Down Shirt Hack Taking Over TikTok | The List

Clothing Psychology: What Do Your Clothes Say About Your Personality | Luxury Travel Magazine