Learn the ins and outs of this confusing yet versatile layering piece.
Traditionally, layering for casual outfits has been pretty simple. Typical layering systems consist of base layers, mid layers, and outer layers, which get respectively thicker and warmer.
Following that, you just layer based on how cold it is outside. For casual outfits, this usually goes T-shirt, collared shirt, and jacket or coat.
But there’s one layer that’s especially perplexing: the shacket or overshirt. This type of garment doesn’t exactly follow typical three-layer systems. As a result, it’s not all that clear when you should actually wear a shacket or overshirt.
Then, there’s the terminology to consider. Are shackets and overshirts actually the same, or is there a subtle but important difference between them?
Despite this confusion, shackets and overshirts are well worth learning about because they’re incredibly useful.
Here’s a closer look at what exactly these pieces are, when you should wear them, and how to style them.
Shacket vs. Overshirt: What’s the Difference?
Many people use these two terms interchangeably, and it’s easy to see why — there are plenty of similarities.
One big issue here is the fact that many brands will treat shacket and overshirt as synonyms. Even more confusingly, some brands will call their shackets overshirts and vice versa.
However, when it comes to how people use the terms, there are a couple of fundamental differences.
What Is a Shacket?
Shacket is a portmanteau of the words shirt and jacket. In fact, this garment is usually called a shirt jacket. Consequently, a shacket is more or less a cross between the two garments.
More specifically, a shirt jacket looks like a button-down shirt but is built like a jacket. It’s essentially a super thick shirt that has a more relaxed (and often slightly oversized) fit.
It’s thicker and warmer than a regular shirt, but it doesn’t have all the features of a jacket. For instance, shackets almost never have hoods.
What Is an Overshirt?
The overshirt has many of the same characteristics as the shirt jacket, but there are differences. Usually, you can’t really tell those differences just by looking at each item in isolation.
Technically, the term overshirt can refer to any non-outerwear piece that you wear over a shirt. This means that all shackets are overshirts, but not all overshirts are shackets.
In practice, an overshirt is often a shirt with a relaxed or oversized fit that allows for layering. While a shirt jacket fits like a jacket, an overshirt fits like, well, a shirt.
Overshirts are still typically thicker than button-down shirts (so that they’re not baggy), but they’re usually thinner than shirt jackets.
How To Wear Shackets and Overshirts
Shirt jackets and overshirts both exist in the space between middle and outer layers. This adds a fourth layer to typical three-layer systems: the mid-outer layer. This layer can act as a middle layer or an outer layer — or as a true in-between layer.
Generally speaking, the same rules of layering apply here. It’s especially important that each subsequent layer is thicker than the last. This means that your shirt jacket or overshirt should be thicker than the shirt underneath it.
There’s a good amount of nuance here, however. The exact way you style an overshirt or shirt jacket will depend on the exact garment and your outfit.
Let’s take a look at more specific guidelines for overshirts and shackets.
How to Style an Overshirt (For Men)
Since overshirts are generally closer to shirts than shackets, they can be trickier to style. In essence, you’re wearing a thicker shirt on top of a thinner one, which is a weird concept.
For that reason, overshirts are easier to style if you think about them as layers rather than garments. This way, you can focus on the structure of your outfit without specific terms throwing you off.
As I mentioned earlier, these mid-outer layers can often be worn as middle, outer, or true mid-outer layers.
However, overshirts specifically are often thinner than shirt jackets, so they’re best worn as middle layers.
In other words, you generally don’t want to have more than two layers beneath an overshirt (counting undershirts).
If you try to wear an overshirt over, say, an undershirt, button-down shirt, and jacket, it likely won’t work.
With all that in mind, here are the specifics of styling an overshirt.
First, many overshirts can be worn on their own (or buttoned over an undershirt). Unless it’s incredibly bulky, an overshirt will essentially act as a slightly roomier button-down.
Another easy way to wear an overshirt is to simply throw it on unbuttoned over a T-shirt.
This is a clean, minimal look that’s virtually an everyday outfit. Unless it’s especially hot or cold out, this pairing will serve you well.
If you go this route, I highly recommend a thicker white T-shirt. This will add some heft to this simple two-layer look, and that’s especially necessary if your overshirt is thicker. This will also feel better than wearing one bigger layer over a much thinner one.
You can also wear an overshirt by layering it over a collared shirt like a button-down or polo.
Take care to ensure that your base shirt doesn’t get too lumpy, and your overshirt doesn’t drape in unflattering ways. If your overshirt is at least marginally thicker than your base shirt, you probably won’t have to worry about this.
Of course, you can also wear an overshirt with other tops like sweaters and pullover-style shirts. Again, make sure that your base layer has enough weight to avoid lumpiness.
Finally, note that your overshirt can be buttoned or unbuttoned. If you’re wearing something with a prominent collar, you can partially button the overshirt to emphasize the collar.
How to Style a Shirt Jacket (For Men)
Since shirt jackets are typically made from thicker fabric, it’s best to wear one like you’d wear an actual jacket. Of course, there’s some flexibility here, but it depends on the specific shacket.
If your shacket is comfortably on the thicker side, you’ll usually want at least a collared shirt or sweater underneath.
Wearing just a T-shirt under a thick shirt jacket will look unbalanced. Unless that’s the exact look you’re going for, avoid it.
On the same note, true shackets are usually too thick to be worn on their own.
However, if your shirt jacket is thinner, like an overshirt, then you can wear it like you would an overshirt.
Some shackets will perform like jackets and offer some degree of protection from the elements. In most cases, though, a shacket will only add a bit of warmth and protection. You’ll still want proper spring jackets for inclement weather.
The Best Overshirts for Men
Looking for a versatile overshirt? Here are our top picks.
Wax London Whiting Overshirt
The Whiting Overshirt is widely considered to be the best garment of its kind. With its easygoing fit, fantastic structure, and recycled construction, the Whiting is a standout overshirt.
This premium overshirt is made with recycled cotton that comes from a family-run French mill. It’s on the heavier side, so you get many of the benefits of both an overshirt and shacket. If you only own one overshirt, the Whiting should probably be the one for you.
Anián the Modern Melton Wool
Canada’s Anián manufactures clothing made chiefly from recycled wool, which is one of the most truly sustainable materials available. Its Modern Melton Wool is a fantastic example of the brand’s quality and refined style.
The Modern Melton Wool is a true overshirt — it can be worn on its own or over other layers. Plus, the recycled wool has a unique texture that’s much softer than virgin wool, so there’s no harsh scratchiness.
American Giant Redwood Fleece Overshirt
The Redwood Fleece Overshirt has a lot going for it. This cotton overshirt features a thicker material with a tailored fit, so you’ll stay warm without looking bulky.
Like all American Giant products, the Redwood is made in Los Angeles using 100% cotton. It also features double-needle stitching, which ensures that this shirt can hold up to frequent wear.
The Best Shirt Jackets for Men
If you’re after a mid-outer layer that’s a bit heftier, check out these handpicked shirt jackets.
Everlane the ReWool® Oversized Shirt Jacket
Everlane has continued to improve its sustainability over the years, and The ReWool® Oversized Shirt Jacket reflects that. This shacket has a recycled Italian wool and nylon outer that’s certified by the Global Recycling Standard.
The sleeves are fully lined for warmth, so this is a shirt jacket you can rely on for brisk weather. Last but not least, it has the Goldilocks shacket fit — not too roomy, not too tight.
Carhartt Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit Canvas Fleece-Lined Shirt Jac
The Rugged Flex Relaxed Fit Canvas Fleece-Lined Shirt Jac is a mouthful, but it’s also a darn good shacket. Made from an 8.5oz blend of 98% cotton and 2% spandex, this shirt jacket offers both durability and flexibility.
As you’d expect from any Carhartt item, the Rugged Flex shacket is substantial and hard-wearing. The relaxed fit is relaxed but not loose, which means no unsightly lumps.
Pendleton Quilted Shirt Jacket
Many shirt jackets feel a bit like blankets, but Pendleton’s Quilted Shirt Jacket is especially blanket-like (which makes sense). This hearty wool shacket has a quilted nylon lining for warmth and comfort.
The wool outer is naturally water-repellent, so this garment can actually act like a jacket. It’s rounded out with features like side-seam pockets, an internal pocket, and a curved hem.
Shacket vs. Overshirt FAQ
Need a quick debrief on the difference between shackets and overshirts? You’re in the right place.
What Is Another Name for a Shacket?
A shacket is short for shirt jacket, and both terms are often used interchangeably with overshirt.
What Is an Overshirt?
An overshirt is essentially a shirt with a relaxed or oversized fit that allows for layering.
Are Overshirts Meant To Be Baggy?
Overshirts should be roomier than regular shirts, but they shouldn’t be baggy unless you want more of an oversized fit.
Conclusion
Shackets and overshirts offer a nice middle ground between a regular button-down shirt and a jacket. They’re ideal for transitional weather and open up tons of new styling possibilities. It’s good to have at least one or two in your closet!
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