How To Wear A Shirt Over A Dress: The Ultimate Guide [2024]

Expert Opinion By Fashion Writer & Doodler

There are moments when you desire a fresh twist to your usual dress attire.

Perhaps the climate calls for an additional layer, or you’re looking to elevate a casual ensemble.

Combining a shirt with a dress can be a fashion-forward choice, but it requires finesse. When done haphazardly, it can appear cluttered.

However, with the right techniques, you can achieve a chic and cozy outfit.

I’ll dive deep into various trendy methods to wear a shirt over a dress, ensuring you find a style that resonates with your personal flair.

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

A straightforward approach is to layer the shirt over the dress. While a collared shirt is a classic choice, feel free to experiment.

Ensure the shirt isn’t too oversized to maintain a balanced look. You can leave a button-up shirt open or fastened, depending on your dress.

Tucking the shirt into the dress offers a refined appearance and prevents any unwanted bunching.

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

For those seeking a relaxed vibe, wearing the shirt open over the dress is a timeless choice. Although a collared shirt is traditionally used, don’t hesitate to innovate. Depending on the occasion, you can either tuck the shirt into the dress or let it flow.

For more insights, explore our detailed guide on how to wear a button-down shirt open.

The Bottom Line

Layering a shirt over a dress introduces numerous styling possibilities. Whether you prefer a snug t-shirt or an oversized sweater, the options are endless.

As you experiment, you’ll discover some combinations resonate more with your style than others. Don’t be afraid to mix and match, refining your look each time.

Remember, fashion is about expressing yourself and having fun!

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.