Style Story2 min read

How to Style a Big and Tall Denim Shirt

Layer a denim or chambray shirt over a tee for an easy jacket alternative, or wear it alone for a simple weekend look.

Big and tall man wearing an open denim shirt layered over a tee

Layer it open over a tee

Unbutton a denim or chambray shirt and wear it open over a plain crew-neck tee for a light layer that works better than a jacket on cool-but-not-cold days. Roll the sleeves to the forearm and leave the collar's top button undone.

The KingSize Long Sleeve Denim and Twill Shirt holds its shape open — heavy enough to stay put, roomy enough to move over a tee without pulling across the shoulders - in sizes XL up to 10XL.

Button it up and wear it alone

Buttoned to the collar or one open, a denim or chambray shirt stands on its own for a casual weekend look, no tee or jacket needed. Untucked keeps it relaxed for errands; tucked with a belt tightens it up for dinner or drinks.

Pair it with the right pants

Contrast the wash so the outfit doesn't read as one flat block of denim. A lighter chambray shirt pairs well with darker jeans, and a mid-wash denim shirt sits better with twill chinos than with another pair of jeans in a similar wash.

Browse our full Denim & Chambray Shirts lineup for Big & Tall men, in 34" and 36" lengths, to match the tees and pants already in your closet.

Denim or chambray: which for the season

Reach for chambray in warm weather — it's a lighter cotton weave that breathes. Reach for denim from fall through early spring, when the heavier weave works as a stand-in for a light jacket.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear a denim shirt with jeans?

Yes, as long as the washes contrast. A lighter chambray or denim shirt over darker jeans avoids the matchy, head-to-toe denim look.

Is a chambray shirt too casual for going out?

Not buttoned up. Paired with dark pants and clean shoes, a chambray shirt moves easily from a weekend errand to a casual dinner.