How To Style an Overshirt
If there's one garment that signals the way men dress now, it's the overshirt.
If anything, recent times have reinforced that comfort is key - not just physically, but aesthetically too. And as the blazer steps back, the overshirt has naturally stepped forward. It’s a versatile, modern alternative that fits perfectly into this new way of dressing.
The Overshirt sits somewhere between a shirt and a jacket - heavier than a standard shirt but lighter than outerwear. Sometimes called a “shacket,” it blends the best of both worlds. With features like extra pockets, larger buttons and a squared hem, it’s typically made from sturdier fabrics such as cotton gabardine, melton wool or cashmere.
The overshirt’s unique identity comes from its lineage. One clear influence is the 20th-century bleu de travail chore coat - a practical, boxy jacket worn by workers during the Industrial Revolution to protect their everyday clothes.
Another influence comes from military garments. British Army shirts were designed for durability and utility, featuring multiple pockets and heavy fabrics to help soldiers carry essentials and withstand harsh conditions. The safari shirt evolved from this, offering a lighter option suited to warmer climates.
American military styles also played a major role. From melton wool CPO shirts to fatigue jackets and BDU uniforms, these pieces helped popularise the overshirt globally. As surplus garments filtered into youth culture, they became widely adopted and reinterpreted by fashion retailers.
Over time, the overshirt transitioned into civilian life. From the grunge-era flannels worn by Kurt Cobain to more refined versions seen on actors like Jake Gyllenhaal, it has proven its versatility.
Its recent resurgence is tied to the broader shift toward casual dressing. While blazers still dominate smart-casual settings, men are increasingly looking for relaxed yet stylish alternatives. The overshirt fits this need perfectly - easy to wear, functional, and effortlessly stylish. It can elevate a home-office outfit without feeling overly formal and works just as well for quick trips outside.
Styling an overshirt is straightforward. Given its workwear and military roots, it’s best worn like a lightweight jacket. Pair it with a polo, a merino knit, or a simple t-shirt, along with chinos or jeans, for a relaxed yet refined look.