The summer I turned an oversized white shirt pretty

A good-quality white shirt is a must-have in any wardrobe. It’s one of those versatile pieces that works across every season. It always makes you look sharp while still being one of the most comfortable things you own. With a few tweaks, the same piece can work at your work desk, brunch with the girls, or even a trip to the beach. We speak to Meghna Goyal, founder of Summer Away, on styling tips for your oversized white shirt.

Pair it with classic denim

“The easiest way is with classic denim,” Goyal says. “Leave the shirt slightly undone and tuck just the front into wide-leg or straight-cut jeans.” This combination keeps the look relaxed during the day but still polished enough for dinner with the right shoes. The contrast between a crisp shirt and casual denim always works.

Layer it with a structured blazer

“Leave the shirt untucked and layer it with a nipped-waist jacket or structured blazer,” Goyal says. For the day, wear the blazer open with flats or sandals. “At night, cinch the blazer at the waist with a belt and add heels,” she adds.

Wear it as a lightweight summer layer

“One of the most useful ways to wear a white shirt in summer is as a layer,” Meghna says. Throw it over a tank, slip dress, or even a swimsuit. It works like a lightweight jacket, and if it gets warm you can tie it at the waist. “It’s always a go-to on beach holidays,” she says.

Layer it over a fitted tee

“Another way to wear it with trousers for a more casual look is to layer a fitted tee underneath,” Goyal says. Tuck the tee into the trousers, wear the shirt over it like a jacket, and add a thin belt to pull the look together.

Tuck it into tailored trousers

“Tuck the shirt into high-waisted tailored wide-leg trousers,” Goyal says. To give it a cooler feel, leave a few buttons undone and let the neckline fall into a deep V, securing it with body tape if needed. “Add a belt to define the waist or a necklace to finish the look,” she says.

Style it under knitwear

Goyal says, “My favourite way to style it when the weather gets slightly cooler is under a knitwear.”. When you're in a cooler climate, let the collar and cuffs peek out on top and allow the hem to show slightly at the bottom for an effortless layered look.

Add a pop of colour 

“Another fun way to layer it is to leave it untucked, wear it with straight-leg jeans, and add a pop of colour with a knit draped over your shoulders,” suggests Goyal. Pair the look with simple sandals to keep it relaxed and summery.

Lead image: Getty

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