Ask A Stylist – How and When to go Tucked VS. Untucked - Original Stitch (2024)

When should a dress shirt be tucked in? When can you leave it untucked? These seem like simple questions with simple answers, but the truth is the rules are somewhat played fast and loose. You know those guys,with untucked shirts at classically traditional events like weddings, making the men in suits feel a little overdressed? Possibly waltzing around movie theaters on a Sunday wearing a tucked in dress shirt and making everyone else wonder what they do for a living. They make it work.

The reason for that is simple: it isn’t the venue that regulates the notion of acceptable tucked versus untucked looks. It's the rules and learning how to properly bend them. So here is a list of do’s and don’ts to get you started.

The Rules:

• Hem: This is by far the one rule to follow. Normally, a formal dress shirt will have a rounded hem at the bottom. This feature usually runs about 2 inches long curving upwards from the center back to the side seems. Casual shirts, on the other hand, tend to be straight hemmed and hang about an inch all the way around. The focal point here is the length. If you want to break this rule, pay attention to the cut AND length of your jib—er, shirt.

• The Blazer: Wearing a blazer is a clear indication to tucking in your dress shirt. Blazers make most any outfit more formal by design. That’s not to say that these versatile jackets can’t be dressed down, in fact, that’s what they’re most known for these days. But they’re generally worn with at least one button fastened. Going untucked dress shirt and buttoned jacket is a no-no combination.

• Style of Pant: The type of pant worn with a dress shirt is equally important when discussing tucked versus untucked looks. Typically, pleated slacks and slim fit trousers accommodate the rounded, and hence, more formal hems.

How to break the rules:

• Hem: As discussed above, the rule here targets styles of hem. However, if you want to throw that out the window completely then by all means go for it. Length is where the money is anyway. Anything below your pant’s inseam is too long. Anything above the middle of the fly front is too short. But the zone in between is going to be your sweet spot.

The Sports Coat: Very near to the blazer is the sports coat. What’s the difference, you ask? Don’t worry, we’ve covered that too, but the most notable difference is sports coats were made to be the casual jacket pairing. This means you can pop them on over a short sleeved, untucked, dress shirt (or t-shirt for that matter) and leave the coat unbuttoned.

• Style of Pant: Jeans and chinos rule supreme where untucked shirts are concerned. Take into account the sports coat and hem length here and you can see how these pant styles can go from casual wear to a more formal setting with ease.

And there you have it. The basic rules – and how to break them – for wearing your dress shirt tucked versus untucked.

Separately, these points may seem like no brainers, but when put together comprehensively, you will start to spot more accurately what makes these looks work. At Original Stitch, we offer a fully customizable collection (yes, even the collar type!) of premium quality shirts. Customers can create a shirt completely unique to them. Our high-quality yarns are hand-selected from and tailored in Japan to be extra resistant to wear and tear while maintaining a softer feel than regular button-up shirts.

October 07, 2020 by Marketing Originalstitch.com

Ask A Stylist – How and When to go Tucked VS. Untucked - Original Stitch (2024)

FAQs

How do you tell if a shirt should be tucked or untucked? ›

As a general rule, if a shirt has a straight hem, for example a polo shirt, it is designed to be left untucked. However, if a shirt has a curved hem, for example a business shirt, it is designed to be tucked in.

Should you tuck in a dress shirt with jeans? ›

Tucking Rules

In general, a very good rule of thumb is to leave your dress shirt untucked. This means you will have to make sure the length is right; if your shirt is too long it'll look like you're wearing a dress, which isn't the look most of you are going for if I had to place my bets.

How long is too long for a dress shirt untucked? ›

A good rule of thumb is that an untucked shirt should come to the middle of the butt. Another good rule of thumb is that the front bottom shirt tail should end midway down the fly of your pants.

When should you tuck in your T shirt? ›

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Tucking the tee has been a polarizing point over the past few years, but we've seen (and done) it more and move lately. In general, only attempt to tuck if you're looking to make a deliberate style statement.

What is the ideal shirt length for untucked shirts? ›

The optimal length for an untucked shirt would be 1 inch higher than the “butthigh” The front length should fall no longer than the front crotch point and no shorter than 2 inches above the front crotch point. A good guideline would be to have your shirt's front length fall right at the bottom of your zipper.

Should you tuck in your shirt if you have a tummy? ›

A full tuck looks best on someone with a defined waistline and a relatively flat tummy. This is especially true if you're tucking a fitted top into fitted bottoms. A flowy top with a full tuck is much more forgiving. The hardest way to do a full tuck is with a fitted top in fitted bottoms.

Should you tuck a shirt into high waisted jeans? ›

With High-Waist Bottoms. With high waisted, do a full tuck with long or flowy tops, and a half tuck with shorter tops. You want to show that waist! If your top hits nicely at the waist then you can leave the top untucked.

Can I wear a black dress shirt with blue jeans? ›

Are blue jeans and a black blouse enough to create an elegant combination? Absolutely, and we have the proof. Many probably have more than one pair of jeans in their wardrobe and at least a few black tops, such as elegant blouses, sweatshirts, classic shirts and turtlenecks.

Does an untucked shirt look unprofessional? ›

Is an untucked dress shirt unprofessional? On specific occasions wearing an untucked dress shirt could come off as unprofessional, yes. However, that's not to say it's a bad look overall. Given the right time and place, an untucked dress shirt gives off a casual and stylish vibe.

Is tucking in your shirt slimming? ›

Oversized shirts are so popular, and wearing something oversized often makes you look bigger. But a little front tuck of your shirt keeps the shirt from overwhelming your body, AND it helps give your silhouette a waist. And show your waist is always more flattering and makes you look slimmer.

Can older men wear untucked shirts? ›

You're not too old to wear untucked button down shirts. Don't force yourself into tucked-in flannels just because your friends are.

How do chubby girls tuck in shirts? ›

Tuck just the front, middle section of your shirt in, leaving the everything else hanging out. This will make you look like you cared just enough, but not too much. It can have an effortless chic appeal if done right. This look works well with sweaters, too.

Is the French Tuck Still in Style 2022? ›

If you want. Tucking pants into boots is fashionable for 2022. While the coastal aesthetic is very fashionable right now, we still tuck shirts in pants. The chic French aesthetic will never go out of style.

What is the French tuck? ›

The French tuck is simply the art of tucking in a shirt at the very front while leaving the back loose and untucked at the sides. It's all about the drape here! According to France this simple tucking technique instantly adds polish to any look and helps add balance to a silhouette.

How do you not look fat in a shirt when tucked in? ›

When you put your shirt on, tuck it in as far as it will go. Then once it's in, lft your shoulders up and that will bring up the sides of the shirt. Then pinch the shirt about an inch or twp above your waistline on each side and pull down. Then adjust to get that 'straight' shape acorss your waistline.

What shirts can be worn untucked? ›

As a rule of thumb, dress shirts are always meant to be dressed tucked in, while casual and short-sleeved shirts are okay to stay untucked. If unsure, remember to check your hem.

Can you wear an untucked shirt with a blazer? ›

DON'T: WEAR AN UNTUCKED SHIRT...

An untucked shirt can look great with shorts or jeans for a smart-casual look but when wearing a Blazer, tucked is the only way! If you are aiming for a more relaxed feel then it's much more stylish to open the top button or two on your shirt.

Can untucked be business casual? ›

As offices across the country become more casual and workplaces are ditching the suit and tie look, men are redefining the term “business casual.” These days wearing an untucked shirt to work or a nicer restaurant is often considered the norm.

What pants to wear if you have a belly? ›

Go big on top, narrow on bottom

Pair any full-cut top, blouse, jacket or tunic with a slim base of trim pants, leggings or straight or skinny jeans (here's where the latter come in handy even if you no longer love them).

What should you not wear with a big stomach? ›

Don't wear tight or clingy garments over your belly and choose tops with ruching or drape. If you want to look stylish and highlight your strengths, it is best not to wear tight tops. They will accentuate every fat bubble you have and draw attention away from you and your fabulous clothes.

How can I hide my lower belly pooch? ›

How to dress to hide belly fat
  1. Do not wear tight clothing on your belly, favouring “smart” draped tops instead. ...
  2. Wear leggings or skinny jeans with longer tops, also draped or with asymmetric cuts. ...
  3. Create vertical lines with long cardigans, slim fit coats and long blazers.

Are high rise jeans Still in Style 2022? ›

Double Waist High Rise Jeans: A Perfect Fall 2022 Trend.

What body type looks best in high-waisted jeans? ›

High-Rise. This fit is often viewed as “retro” but the truth is, it's classic. Athletic body types with smaller waists will love this fit. Hourglass shapes on the slender side look fantastic in high rise jeans with stretch.

Do high-waisted jeans go over your belly button? ›

While both high waisted and low rise jeans are in, both offer incredibly different styles. High waisted jeans should clasp at or above your belly button, and are a great way to accentuate your figure. On the other hand, low rise jeans should sit right at your hips.

Which jeans looks best with black shirt? ›

What Color Pants To Wear With Black Shirt? Black is one such versatile color with which you can make as many combinations as you want. Some of the best colors you can choose for black shirt combination pants is black shirts grey pants, black shirt with blue jeans, or something as bright as white.

What Colour shirts go well with black jeans? ›

Neutrals always work with other neutrals, so feel confident in pairing your black jeans with white, grey, cream and navy and button-ups. Grey and white shirts create a clean combo, while a monochromatic black shirt and jeans pairing adds subtle contemporary edge.

Is navy and black OK to wear together? ›

The short answer is yes, you can wear navy blue with black. While some may say they should never go together, here at Men's Health we believe that this color duo is the perfect combo to amp up your wardrobe, perhaps because so many in the office can't seem to stray from wearing these two colors together.

Should I tuck in my long sleeve shirt? ›

Long Sleeve Shirts

A long sleeve, tailored dress shirt should should never be worn untucked. These shirts are designed to be worn with a tie and tucked in — end of story. Other long sleeve sport shirts that have long tails in the front and back is also a no no for untucked.

Is it OK to wear a button down shirt untucked? ›

If you're going out for drinks or to a casual party, then you'll be fine going out with an untucked shirt. Always err on the side of caution when planning an outfit. If you aren't sure if the occasion is formal or casual, leave your dress shirt tucked in.

Do you tuck in short sleeve shirts? ›

Short sleeve shirts are best worn untucked or casually tucked. That means you don't want the shirt hem to fall too low or too short, but hit just the right length, around midpoint between your waist and crotch.

What are the side effects of tucking? ›

Tucking does have some risks. These include urinary tract infections, problems with urine flow and twisting or inflammation in the testicl*s. If you have any of these problems, stop tucking until you can talk with your doctor.

How is the proper tucking? ›

Keep one hand on the genitals to keep everything snug, and tuck your genitals back between your legs and buttocks. Finish the tucking process by pulling on a pair of tightly fitting underwear or a gaffe.

What not to wear if you are a man over 60? ›

8 Mistakes Older Men Make Trying to Look Young
  • Mistakes Men Make When Trying to Appear Younger.
  • Wearing Athletic Clothing In Public.
  • Wearing Sneakers At The Wrong Time.
  • Wearing Baseball Caps As A Casual Accessory.
  • Wearing Trendy, Tight Clothing.
  • Wearing Unflattering Jeans.
  • Dressing Like A College Boy.
6 Sept 2020

Can a 60 year old wear jeans? ›

It's not about age; it's all about the fit when it comes to wearing skinny jeans. You just need to adjust the style to your changing body shape. To get the correct fit, look at the waist rise, the upper leg, and the lower leg. Use this combination and you will get the perfect pair of jeans every time.

What should a 70 year old man wear? ›

Leave the trends to the younger guys and embrace the distinguished style that you can pull off. For example, some classic items that should be the foundation of your wardrobe are: suits/blazers, oxfords, dress boots, chinos, Harrington, bomber or standing collared jackets, and polo shirts.

Does tucking in your shirt make you hotter? ›

Back then, Japanese teacher Dr. Naomichi Tomita made an experiment to measure the impacts to the temperature of a shirt being tucked. He found out that is is cooler to have the shirt tucked in.

What style is coming back in 2022? ›

2022 Fashion Trend: Voluminous Silhouettes

From oversize shirting to ballooned silhouettes and a continuation of the puff sleeve trend, dresses and tops will retain their volume through the end of the year. If anything, the latter will spice up all the soft pants you'll probably still be rocking on the bottom.

What style of jeans will be for 2022? ›

High-Rise, Wide-Leg Denim

This type of jeans provides coverage for colder months but offers breathability for the warmer weather. Sahara suggests styling your high-rise, wide-leg jeans with a shorter top or a V-neck tee to juxtapose the elongated hemline.

What is out of style for spring 2022? ›

CLOTHES OUT OF STYLE 2022

High waisted jeans, high waisted pants, high waist tennis skirts, skater skirts, knit pants, skinny jeans, hoodie sets, short blazers, leggings, fur coats, cropped leather jacket, A-style mini dresses, and cold shoulders are some of the favourite clothes out of fashion for winter 2022 2023.

What is a Japanese tuck? ›

With your index fingers, locate the twins and begin pushing them toward your backside. The next step takes practice: gently push them back and up, curling your fingers inward toward you as you do. This is called the Japanese tucking method, and it involves lifting the twins into the inguinal canals.

Why do people wear half tuck shirts? ›

By tucking in just a bit of your shirt, it allows your waist line to be seen, keeps loose-fitting tops from hanging on your figure and gives a nonchalant, casual feel. One of my favorite fashion bloggers, Merrick from Merrick's Art did a great photo tutorial showing how to do the half-tuck. 1.

What is the purpose of a tuck? ›

Tucking involves hiding external genitalia so that they are not visible in tight clothing. Tucking is a do-it-yourself option for changing your appearance so that it matches your gender expression.

Can I wear an untucked shirt with a blazer? ›

DON'T: WEAR AN UNTUCKED SHIRT...

An untucked shirt can look great with shorts or jeans for a smart-casual look but when wearing a Blazer, tucked is the only way! If you are aiming for a more relaxed feel then it's much more stylish to open the top button or two on your shirt.

Can you wear long shirts untucked? ›

Check your length

Tuck it in. On the flip side, a shirt that falls below your rear or has extra long tails is much too long to wear untucked. The ideal length for an untucked shirt is around the middle of your back pants pocket.

Is the French tuck Still in Style 2022? ›

If you want. Tucking pants into boots is fashionable for 2022. While the coastal aesthetic is very fashionable right now, we still tuck shirts in pants. The chic French aesthetic will never go out of style.

Does tucking your shirt in make you look thinner? ›

Oversized shirts are so popular, and wearing something oversized often makes you look bigger. But a little front tuck of your shirt keeps the shirt from overwhelming your body, AND it helps give your silhouette a waist. And show your waist is always more flattering and makes you look slimmer.

What pants do you wear with untucked shirts? ›

If you're just starting to wear untucked shirts, start simple. For something super casual, consider wearing it as you would a tucked in shirt, with slim-fit jeans or chinos and simple sneakers. Add a lightweight jacket or a crewneck sweater if it's a little cooler out.

What jeans look best with a blazer? ›

For blazers in shades of brown, beige, green or blue, go for dark blue jeans; whereas for a monochrome look, pair grey and charcoal blazers with black jeans. For those wanting to branch out from the safety of dark washes, try pale or white denim – neutral shades that work best during the spring and summer months.

Why do people tuck in shirts? ›

Since most people only owned one or two sets of clothing, tucking kept them clean longer, resulting in better hygiene and a more polished presentation. The symbolism stuck, and the tuckers continue to hold down a reputation as those who Have Their Stuff Together.

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