An overshirt is a must-have in every man’s wardrobe – it’s versatile, functional and effortlessly stylish. The perfect hybrid between a lightweight shirt and a more heavyweight jacket, an overshirt is the quintessential layering piece for any season. Whether you’re looking for a light layer for breezy summer evenings or searching for the perfect transitional piece going into autumn, an overshirt is a fashion staple everyone should have in their repertoire.
Due to its incredibly versatile nature, an overshirt can be styled in a variety of ways to suit each season, occasion and personal style preferences. If you’re eager to incorporate this uber-popular trend into your outfit rotation season-to-season, keep reading as we dive into the many ways you can style this timeless piece.
How to wear an overshirt in autumn
As the temperature starts to drop, an overshirt becomes the perfect transitional piece to add to your autumn wardrobe. Offering just the right amount of warmth without feeling too bulky, an overshirt can be layered effortlessly over t-shirts, long-sleeve tops and lightweight sweatshirts for brisk autumn days. Whether you’re heading out for an autumnal walk or searching for the perfect smart-casual look for work, the versatility of an overshirt makes it a go-to option for this season.
The key to any on-trend autumn outfit is to perfect your colour palette – think deep, earthy tones like khaki and brown paired with pops of more vibrant colour such as burgundy and orange hues. This Carhartt WIP Craft Overshirt is the perfect autumn outerwear piece as it boasts an autumnal military-green colour that can pair easily with other items in your wardrobe. This rich green tone could be considered a neutral colour throughout autumn due to its versatility, making it an easy match for any casual or smart-casual occasion.
Carhartt WIP Craft Overshirt, Edwin Cosmos Pant Jeans and Flower Mountain Yamano 3 Trainers
The best way to style this overshirt for the autumn season is to layer it on top of a white long-sleeve t-shirt and pair it with your favourite denim jeans – we recommend these Edwin Cosmos Pant Jeans that offer a relaxed fit and trendy mid-blue wash that perfectly complements the green overshirt. The white hue of the t-shirt allows for the overshirt to take the spotlight and make it the centrepiece of your look and also keeps the overall look simple enough for you to have fun with your footwear choices.
For this overshirt outfit in particular, we suggest an option for a pair of trendy trainers that incorporate colours similar to those in your outfit to tie the whole look together. These Flower Mountain Yamano 3 Trainers draw on the earthy tones of the overshirt and provide a comfortable and trendy footwear option perfect for the fall season. Not only are these trainers stylish but innovative features and support make them ideal for the changing weather conditions as the season changes.
How to wear an overshirt in winter
Making it through the winter whilst staying stylish is all about layering, and an overshirt is the perfect tool to master the art of staying warm without sacrificing style. Ideal for those days when a heavy winter coat feels too bulky but a jumper isn’t enough, an overshirt layered on top of other pieces offers the perfect level of warmth. Whether you’re layering an overshirt over a chunky knit jumper, a casual hoodie, or wearing it buttoned up under a heavier jacket, an overshirt can help you create an array of stylish looks that are functional for the colder months.
This checked Lyle & Scott Check Flannel Overshirt boasts a timeless checked, tartan print synonymous with winter, making it the perfect overshirt for the season. Crafted from premium flannel fabric, this overshirt can be worn buttoned-up as a standalone statement piece, or layered underneath a heavier winter coat for a practical winter look. This overshirt would also look great worn open with a long-sleeve knitted jumper or turtleneck layered underneath for added warmth.
Lyle & Scott Check Flannel Overshirt, Dickies Eagle Bend Cargo Trousers and UGG Biltmore Chelsea Leather Boot
The navy and chalk check pattern of this overshirt adds a timeless, sophisticated winter-ready aesthetic that pairs well with dark jeans or cargo trousers for the ultimate smart casual look. A pair of cargo trousers such as these Dickies Eagle Bend Cargo Trousers ensure that you stay effortlessly on-trend with your look as well as adding a welcome touch of practicality with multiple, functional pockets and drawstring ankles to keep in the warmth.
To complete this winter-ready overshirt look, a pair of boots is a must-have. Blending comfort and functionality a pair of ankle boots can effortlessly elevate your winter fashion game and ensure you stay supported in the varying weather conditions. This pair of UGG Biltmore Chelsea Leather Boots not only match the tones of the overshirt but are a great winter shoe option due to their waterproof materials and gripped soles to ensure stability and support.
How to wear an overshirt in spring
As the chill of winter starts to fade, the need for heavy coats fades with it and lighter jackets start to make an appearance. Overshirts are ideal for milder spring days, as they allow you to navigate the changing weather in style, ensuring you have a layer light enough for warmer afternoons, but one that can also be layered on top of a long-sleeve for cooler mornings. Striking the right balance between functionality and style, an overshirt in a classic neutral colour can be paired with almost anything in your existing wardrobe to create a unique look for any occasion and season.
A great spring overshirt option is one in a neutral colour that allows you to easily transition from winter to spring due to its styling versatility. This Barbour International Gear Overshirt offers a lightweight layer that provides just the right amount of warmth for cooler mornings while remaining breathable for warmer afternoons. Boasting a minimalist grey colour, this overshirt can easily be styled up or down depending on the occasion. We suggest wearing it open with a white graphic T-shirt underneath to add a pop of colour or buttoned up for a more formal look.
Barbour International Gear Overshirt, Farah Endmore Chino Twill Skinny Chinos and New Balance 327 Trainers
When it comes to styling this overshirt, a pair of black chinos or jeans keeps the monochromatic look cohesive and also allows you more freedom with accessories and footwear choices. This pair of Farah Endmore Chino Twill Skinny Chinos are a great spring choice as they are a more breathable option in contrast to black skinny jeans and are also appropriate for more formal events.
For footwear, a pair of statement trainers would go perfectly with this look. Go for a pair of trainers in one of the season’s most popular colours or gravitate towards your favourite hues and pick a style you can wear time and time again. This pair of New Balance 327 Trainers feature an eye-catching blue, white and grey design that goes perfectly with this outfit and adds a welcome pop of colour for the spring season.
How to wear an overshirt in summer
As summer rolls around and the weather heats up, the thought of layering may seem counterintuitive, however, an overshirt can still be a valuable addition to your wardrobe for cooler summer evenings or breezy days. A lightweight overshirt can serve as the perfect outer layer to keep to hand throughout the summer, offering just enough coverage to keep away the chill of the wind without overheating. We suggest opting for an overshirt in a more breathable fabric and lighter colour to ensure you stay comfortable in the heat.
As much as you may love a denim jacket in the spring and summer, they can often be too heavy when the temperature really starts to rise. Therefore a denim overshirt such as this Calvin Klein Jeans Chest Pocket Overshirt allows you to keep that laid-back and fresh look while staying cool. Having an overshirt to hand in the summer can also be great for those long days at the beach or out and about when the sun starts to set and there’s a slight chill in the air.
Calvin Klein Jeans Chest Pocket Overshirt, Jack & Jones Bowie Chino Shorts and Puma Basket VTG Butter Goods Trainers
Layer this denim overshirt on top of a vest or lightweight graphic tee and pair it with chino shorts such as these Jack & Jones Bowie Chino Shorts to maintain that relaxed vibe and keep the look breathable. The beauty of such a lightweight overshirt is that it can easily be tied around your waist if you get too warm and it will still keep you looking on-trend.
When considering the best footwear for this outfit, always opt for a trainer or sandal that will keep you comfortable as your number one priority as summer usually means being out on your feet all day. However, comfortable doesn’t have to mean boring as there are plenty of exciting trainers to choose from that can add a surprising pop of colour to your outfit. This pair of Puma Basket VTG Butter Goods Trainers boasts a vibrant orange hue that sets them apart from any other trainer and can add a fun element to your outfit.
Layer up in style with Standout
If you’re feeling inspired to add an overshirt to your wardrobe, head on over to our full collection of men’s designer overshirts to find the perfect style for you. Featuring a variety of on-trend overshirt styles from some of your favourite brands, we’ve got you covered no matter the season or occasion.