How To Wear A Shirt Over A Dress: The Ultimate Guide [2023]

Expert Opinion By Fashion Writer & Doodler

How To Wear A Shirt Over A Dress?

There are many times when you may want to wear a shirt over a dress.

Maybe the weather is a little too chilly for just a dress, or maybe you want to dress up a casual outfit.

No matter the reason, wearing a shirt over a dress can be tricky.

If done wrong, it can look messy and unflattering.

But if done correctly, it can be a great way to change up your style and keep warm!

In this guide, we will show you how to wear a shirt over a dress in several different ways, so you can find the perfect look for you!

How To Wear A Shirt Over A Dress?

Below are some trending fashion preferences for layering shirts over a dress to look stylish.

1

Simply Throw It On

A Girl Wearing Shirt Over A Dress

One of the simplest ways to wear a shirt over a dress is to just throw it on!

This works best with a collared shirt, but any type of shirt will do.

Just make sure that the shirt is not too big or bulky, as you don’t want it to overpower the dress.

If you’re wearing a button-up shirt, you can leave it open or buttoned – whichever looks best with your outfit.

For a more polished look, tuck the shirt into the dress.

This will also help to keep the shirt in place and prevent it from bunching up.

2

Tie The Shirt Around Your Waist

A Woman Wearing Shirt With Front Knot

This is a great way to add some extra style to your outfit and also keep yourself warm.

Just make sure that the shirt is not too big, as you don’t want it to look like you’re wearing a dress over a shirt!

A cute and trendy way to wear a shirt over a dress is to knot it in the front.

This can be done with any type of shirt but looks especially good with a button-up.

Just button up the shirt, then knot it in the front – easy as that!

If you don’t know how to knot the shirt around your waist then see the video tutorial and steps mentioned below.

  1. Put on your dress!
  2. Grab your favorite shirt. Ideally, it should have a higher neckline than your dress, as well as some stretch to let you actually knot it.
  3. Put your shirt over your dress, adjusting the sleeves and neckline.
  4. Make sure your shirt is tucked under at the waist.
  5. Make a knot by pulling the bottom of the shirt forward all the way.
  6. Make your knot snugger or looser depending on how it fits.
3

Wear Your Shirt Over Your Dress As A Cape

A Girl Wearing Shirt Over Dress As Cape

If you want to get really creative, you can also wear your shirt over your dress as a cape!

This may sound strange, but it can actually look really chic.

Just put your arms through the sleeves of the shirt and let it drape over your shoulders.

This works best with a collared shirt or a button-up, but any type of shirt will do.

You can also add a belt to this look to help define your waist.

4

Use A Belt To Define Waist

A Girl Wearing Belt Over Shirt

One of the best ways to wear a shirt over a dress is by using a belt to define your waist.

This will help to create a flattering silhouette and also keep the shirt in place.

You can also use a scarf instead of a belt – just tie it around your waist and let the ends hang down.

This is a great way to add some extra color or pattern to your outfit!

5

Wear The Shirt Open Over The Dress

A Girl Wearing Shirt Over Dress

This works best with a collared shirt, but any type of shirt will do.

If you’re wearing a button-up shirt, you can leave it open or buttoned – whichever looks best with your outfit.

For a more polished look, tuck the shirt into the dress.

It will help to keep the shirt in place and prevent it from bunching up.

Read our complete guide on how to wear a button-down shirt open!

The Bottom Line

A button-down shirt can be layered over a dress by tying the ends together at the waist.

You can wear a sweater or t-shirt too!

Depending on your closet and what you like best on your body, you might find that some dresses or tops work better than others.

You may try layering shirts with jeans, skirts, leggings, maxi, or other pieces of clothing according to your taste.

Try new combos and adjust them until they work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wear a shirt on top of a dress?

The answer is yes! Wearing a shirt over a dress is a great way to add an extra layer of warmth without sacrificing style. Just play with proportions i.e., if you’re wearing a flowy dress, pair it with a fitted shirt. Or if you’re wearing a more fitted dress, go for an oversized shirt.

How do you make a shirt look good in a dress?

The best way to make a shirt look good in a dress is by choosing the right kind of shirt. A collared shirt or button-up will look more polished than a t-shirt or sweatshirt. Tuck the shirt into the dress. Add a belt to give some shape to the outfit and play with proportions for a sophisticated look.

Related Article:

How to style an oversized shirt?
How to wear a patterned shirt?
How to layer clothes for winter?
How to wear a collarless shirt with a suit?
How to wear a men’s shirt as a woman?
How to style a button down shirt?

Tasha Juli
Tasha Juli Korman is a fashion and lifestyle blogger. She has been blogging for over five years now and found her niche in the world of style! Whether it's taking you on a personal journey through her wardrobe or sharing outfits that match your own personal style, you enjoy following along.