The Backbone of Your Wardrobe: How to Style Oversized Shirts

April 27, 2023

Stylist Monica Russell offers her tips for making the most of this piece – the backbone of the Blanca wardrobe.

Ask any Blanca sophisticate, and they’ll tell you the oversized shirt is their foundation: their bread and their butter, for the good days and the bad. It’s only fitting – Blanca was built on the belief that a relaxed piece of clothing should be readily enjoyed by all, inspired by the proverbial ‘boyfriend’s’ wardrobe. As contemporary women, we’re seeking comfort, ease and fluidity; we want pieces that transition with us throughout the day, seasons and life stages. All without sacrificing style.

We asked stylist Monica Russell to work us through the wonders of the oversized shirt.

A love affair with the oversized shirt

“An oversized shirt is one of the hardest working wardrobe essentials,” says Monica. “Taking you effortlessly from summer to winter, and every occasion in between.”

Defined by its relaxed silhouette, the oversize shirt adds volume, acts as a simple cover-up and can be reimagined again and again. It’s also a marker of individuality – the patterns, colours and styling options allow for deeply personalised takes (evidenced by all the Blanca love on Instagram <3). The wardrobe’s example of a perfect work/life balance, you’re tucking her into trousers for big-wig meetings and letting her tails run loose after-hours. A simple styling or accessory switch goes a long way.

Throughout pregnancy and fluctuating body changes, the Blanca shirt is a firm staple: a token of continuity in times of adjustment. In and out of every season (of life and climate), our oversized shirts hang in our wardrobes, promising repeat use and an avenue for much-needed creative self-expression. Whether formulaic or creative, we love getting dressed every morning.

How to style oversize shirts: Monica’s pro tips

My favourite way to wear an oversized shirt is thrown effortlessly over a swimsuit as I’m scooting to and from the beach. It acts as a super chic cover up, while also providing sun protection - win win!

2. To take your oversized shirt into the colder months, style it layered over a cashmere skivvy, and under a heavy woollen coat - it’s the perfect middle layer to keep you cosy yet still looking cool.

3. For date night, tuck your oversized shirt into a pair of neat high waisted black trousers. Undo a few buttons to show a little peek-a-boo of lacy bralette hidden underneath. Add a pump, an earring and a lip stain to finish the look.

4. For the conservative workplace: Team your oversized shirt with a tailored full length skirt and a fail safe black blazer for an office appropriate look.

5. Style unbuttoned and worn open over a ribbed tank top and paired back with low slung denim jeans. Cuff the sleeves, layer some fine gold chains and slide on a pair of embellished sandals and you are ready for brunch with the girls.