Overshirt & Shackets, the new must-have for the man’s wardrobe.
In the ever-evolving landscape of men’s fashion, the overshirt has emerged as a versatile and stylish staple, seamlessly bridging the gap between casual and formal wear. Not quite a shirt, not quite a jacket, the overshirt is a hybrid garment that offers both functionality and a dash of sartorial flair. In this post, we delve into the allure of the overshirt and explore various ways to style it, ensuring you look effortlessly chic in every setting.
What exactly is an overshirt or shacket?
What exactly is an overshirt or shacket?
An overshirt is a garment that is a hybrid of a shirt and a jacket, that’s why it’s also called “shacket“. It is typically made from a thicker fabric than a regular shirt, such as denim, flannel, or corduroy, and has a more relaxed fit. Overshirts often have features such as pockets, collars, and cuffs, but they are typically unlined and less structured than jackets.
Overshirts are a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn for a variety of occasions, they are also called Shirt-Jacket. They can be dressed up or down, and they are ideal for layering in cooler weather. Overshirts can be worn over a t-shirt, polo shirt, or button-down shirt, and they can be paired with jeans, chinos, or even shorts.
The importance Overshirts for fashion industry
The overshirt, often referred to as a “shacket” (shirt + jacket), has its roots in workwear, providing an extra layer of warmth and protection without the bulkiness of a traditional jacket. Its utilitarian charm has been embraced and reimagined by fashion designers, morphing it into a must-have piece that marries comfort with style.
You can see the trend of the overshirts and the shackets here below in this chart that we have created with Google Trends. The chart starts from 2015 and arrives to October 2023. From the trend-line you can see that while the shacket is a seasonal product, with peaks of search in November, the overshirt is not seasonal and it’s a trend that has been developing constantly for more than a few years now.
Enrico Fantaguzzi
Why the Overshirt?
- Versatility: Suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to semi-formal events.
- Layering: A perfect piece for layering, offering additional warmth without sacrificing style.
- Transitional: Ideal for transitioning between seasons, providing the right amount of insulation.
- Style Statement: Available in various fabrics and patterns, it can elevate a simple outfit to a style statement.
What’s the difference between an overshirt and a shacket?
“Overshirt” and “shacket” are two terms used in the world of fashion to describe similar types of garments, but there are some subtle differences between them:
- Overshirt:
- An overshirt is a type of shirt that is designed to be worn over other clothing, such as a T-shirt or a lightweight sweater.
- It often has the appearance of a traditional button-up shirt, with features like a collar, buttons down the front, and cuffs.
- Overshirts are typically made from heavier materials than regular shirts, such as denim, flannel, or canvas. They provide more warmth and can be used as a layering piece in colder weather.
- The fit of an overshirt can vary, but it’s generally looser than a traditional shirt to accommodate layering.
- Shacket (Shirt Jacket):
- A shacket is a hybrid garment that combines elements of a shirt and a jacket.
- Like an overshirt, it often has the appearance of a shirt with a collar and buttons, but it’s designed to be a bit thicker and more rugged, like a lightweight jacket.
- Shackets are usually made from materials like wool, fleece, or heavier cotton blends, making them suitable for transitional weather or as an outer layer in milder cold conditions.
- They are typically cut with a slightly roomier fit to allow for layering underneath, but they may be more structured than overshirts.
In summary, both overshirts and shackets serve as versatile pieces of clothing that can be used for layering and provide additional warmth. The main difference lies in the thickness and construction of the garment, with shackets generally being thicker and having more jacket-like qualities, while overshirts are more similar to traditional shirts in terms of weight and structure. However, the terminology can vary by region and fashion brand, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific features and materials of a garment to understand how it fits into your wardrobe.
How to Style the Overshirt
- Casual Cool
- Pair with a plain tee, denim jeans, and sneakers for a laid-back look.
- Opt for an overshirt in a neutral or plaid pattern to add a dash of visual interest.
- Smart Casual
- Layer over a polo shirt and pair with chinos and loafers.
- Choose a solid color overshirt and accessorize with a sleek belt and watch.
- Business Casual
- Wear it over a button-down shirt, paired with tailored trousers and derby shoes.
- Select a dark, muted overshirt and complement it with a subtle tie.
- Weekend Vibes
- Combine with a graphic tee, cargo pants, and combat boots for an edgy look.
- Opt for a bold, vibrant overshirt to make a statement.
- Evening Out
- Pair with a black turtleneck, dark jeans, and Chelsea boots for a sleek, evening look.
- Choose an overshirt in a luxurious fabric, like wool or cashmere, for an elevated touch.
Choosing the Right Overshirt
- Fabric: Consider the season – lighter fabrics like cotton for warmer months and heavier ones like wool for winter.
- Fit: Ensure it’s roomy enough for layering but not too oversized that it loses its shape.
- Color: Start with neutral tones for versatility and gradually introduce patterns and colors.
- Detailing: Pay attention to details like buttons, pockets, and stitching, which add to its charm.
Conclusion
The overshirt is not merely a trend but a timeless piece that adds functionality and style to a man’s wardrobe. Its adaptability and ease of styling make it a worthy investment for fashion enthusiasts and novices alike. Whether you’re heading for a casual coffee date or a business-casual meeting, the overshirt has proven itself to be a reliable and stylish companion. So, embrace the overshirt and make a subtle yet impactful style statement wherever you go.
Where to buy shirt-jackets and overshirts
- https://suitsupply.com/shirt-jackets
- https://www.paulsmith.com/eu/black-wool-cashmere-shirt-jacket
- https://it.velasca.com/overshirts
Overshirts & Shackets for under $50
- H&M > Shirts > Overshirts
Author Bio
Enrico Fantaguzzi is a fashion enthusiast with a keen eye for emerging trends and timeless staples. With a passion for men’s fashion, he explores the dynamic world of style, advocating for versatility and confidence in every piece he curates.
“Overshirt” and “shacket” are two terms used in the world of fashion to describe similar types of garments, but the materials used to make them are generally different: shackets are usually made from materials like wool, fleece, or heavier cotton blends to make them suitable to use as outerwear, while the overshirts are generally made of denim, flannel, or canvas and they are suitable to wear indoor.
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