How to Style an Oversized Jacket

Co-authored by Dina Scherer and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: September 1, 2021 References

Oversized blazers, trench coats, overcoats, and denim jackets all have the potential to give your outfit a streetwear-chic vibe. If you’ve never styled an oversized jacket before, it can be a little tough to find pieces that mesh well together and look proportionate. We’ve compiled some of the best style tips for your oversized jacket so you can look flawless every time you walk out the door!

Method 1

Method 1 of 11:
Stick to solid colors to let your jacket stand out.

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Oversized jackets are already statement pieces on their own.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.} Try bold colors with a denim jacket, neutrals with a patterned jacket, or pastels with a trench coat or overcoat.^{[2]
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- You could also try a monochromatic look for an easy outfit that’s sure to turn heads in a crowd.
- If you want to add a pop of pattern, try throwing on a long scarf or a fun headband.

Method 2

Method 2 of 11:
Define your waist with a belt.

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If you’re getting lost in your jacket, you can cinch your waist. Use a leather or cloth belt around the outside of your jacket to show off your figure.^{[3]
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- This looks best with a large blazer, trench coat, or overcoat.
- Try a thick black belt to make a statement, or go for a cloth belt in the same color as your coat for a more seamless look.
- If you’re going for a streetwear outfit, try using a fanny pack instead of a belt.

Method 3

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Cuff your sleeves to keep your look proportionate.

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If your sleeves are too long, they could cover your hands. Roll them up a few times to expose your arms and balance out your outfit.^{[4]
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- You can create a fun new look by wearing a long sleeve underneath your jacket and exposing the ends of your sleeves when you cuff them.
- This works great for all oversized jackets, including blazers, overcoats, and denim jackets.

Method 4

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Wear a fitted tank top or tee under a shorter jacket.

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Tighter underlayers look great under a jacket that hits your waist.^{[5]
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Expert Source

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.} Try wearing a fitted T-shirt, a spaghetti strap tank top, a sports bra, or a bralette under your jacket.^{[6]
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- If you want to show some skin, try wearing a crop top or a bandeau top.
- If your shirt is a little too baggy, use a hair tie to cinch it at the waist and make it more fitted.

Method 5

Method 5 of 11:
Create a contrast under longer jackets with tight bottoms.^{[7]
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Expert Source

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.}

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This is an easy way to style your jacket that looks great every time. Put on a pair of leggings or skin-tight jeans to create an interesting silhouette from head to toe.^{[8]
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- If you have an oversized blazer, use leggings to make a faux-suit for a play on the business casual look.
- If you’re rocking an oversized denim jacket, make a statement by wearing denim on denim.

Method 6

Method 6 of 11:
Pair oversized bottoms with your jacket for a streetwear look.

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Try a more modern style to stand out in a crowd. Put on wide-legged or straight-legged jeans, then add your oversized jacket on top for a cool, edgy look.^{[9]
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- If you’re working with a denim jacket, try matching the wash of your jeans with the wash of your jacket.
- This look works great with jackets that are slightly more fitted, like blazers and trench coats.

Method 7

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Add a masculine edge to a dress with your jacket.

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You can contrast your oversized jacket with a mini or midi dress. Put on a dress that has a flowy or A-line skirt, then add your jacket on top for a nice mixture of styles.^{[10]
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- To go extra flirty and sweet, try wearing a floral dress.
- Pair your look with heeled booties or ankle boots.
- If it’s cold out, add a pair of sheer black tights to keep your legs warm.

Method 8

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Get fancy with a pair of trousers.

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If you’re working with a blazer or overcoat, you can turn it into a suit. Put on a pair of fitted trousers and a blouse, then add your oversized coat on top.^{[11]
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- Make this look a little more feminine with some chunky jewelry, like a statement necklace.
- Pair your look with heeled booties or dress shoes to really play up the business casual look.

Method 9

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Wear shorts for a fun, modern look.

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Oversized jackets and shorts create an interesting contrast. Put on a strappy tank top and a pair of denim shorts, then add your jacket on top.^{[12]
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- If you’re working with an oversized blazer, this can be a fun way to dress up for date night. Add a pair of strappy heels or ballet flats and bring a small clutch with you.
- A denim jacket with denim shorts always looks cool. Pair your outfit with some chunky sneakers and tall socks for a fun, casual look.

Method 10

Method 10 of 11:
Accessorize with statement jewelry.

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This will add a fun, feminine touch to your oversized outfit. Statement necklaces, dangly earrings, watches, and chunky bangles all look great with an oversized jacket.^{[13]
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- Large sunglasses are a great way to draw attention to your face.

Method 11

Method 11 of 11:
Try chunky sneakers and heels to balance out your look.

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This will make your outfit look cohesive from head to toe. Heeled boots, combat boots, chunky sneakers, and dress shoes all look great with an oversized jacket.^{[14]
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- If you’re petite, wearing chunky boots can give you a few extra inches of height.
- Tall socks are a fun way to add a pop of color to your outfit.

Community Q&A

Question

Should a denim jacket be oversized?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

Expert Answer

It can be, if you want! Oversized jackets work great as statement pieces, as long as you don't pair them with other baggy garments.
Question

How do you make an oversized denim jacket look good?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

Expert Answer

Try to wear fitted jeans or trousers with your oversized jacket. Wearing too many baggy clothes can make your outfit seem big and bulky, and can take away from your body shape. If you're wearing a dark jacket, slip into a contrasting-colored shirt or pair of pants—this helps your jacket stand out.