Summer or winter, the overshirt is an essential piece for your wardrobe if you want to embrace a practical, versatile style, a skilful blend of casual and smart. Neither quite a jacket nor quite a shirt, it is a garment to wear layered under a coat or buttoned over a T-shirt or a jumper . If you have not yet embraced it, now is the time to get better acquainted. A key piece in our latest collection, we reveal all its secrets and explain how to wear it well.
The overshirt: definition
The overshirt is a piece characterised by a regular fit or relaxed fit, most often a French collar, side pockets and a number of buttons similar to that found on a shirt. In terms of fabric, overshirts come in varying weights, in cotton, corduroy or wool to suit the season. It is precisely this versatility that makes the overshirt ideal for the mid-season, while being just as easy to wear throughout the year.
The origins of the overshirt
Like many items of menswear, the overshirt emerged to meet a practical need in a military context. It is thought to be a variation of the BDU shirts (Battle Dress Uniform) worn by American soldiers from the 1980s onwards. The BDU shirt was valued for its adaptability, worn open or buttoned up, in fabrics of varying warmth depending on the season. Another theory places its origins around the 1930s in the US Navy. It then became popular in working-class circles, becoming the essential piece we know today.
Which overshirt should you choose?
The overshirt is a versatile piece that can be worn “in & out”, either as a shirt at the office or as a jacket at the weekend or on a Sunday stroll. But for an overshirt to replace a jacket, it must be warm and durable enough. To achieve this, one of the most important criteria when choosing it is to pay particular attention to its fabric and finishing details. For a quality piece, it is best to choose natural fibres that are comfortable and hard-wearing. Natural fabrics have the advantage of being very soft, breathable and thermoregulating, with a soft hand that makes them pleasant to wear. It is therefore best to always check the label and favour high-end fabrics, the guarantee of a durable piece. You can opt for a merino wool overshirt in winter or a cotton flannel one in summer.
The ripstop overshirt
Designed for the warmer months, our beige ripstop overshirt combines lightness and durability. This cotton and linen fabric, woven in France by Velcorex, stands out for its reinforced military-inspired structure, designed to last without adding weight. With its relaxed fit and two chest pockets, it is a practical, breathable piece, ideal for summer days when you want to stay covered without getting too warm.
How to wear an overshirt?
There are several ways to wear an overshirt well. The first option, in winter or mid-season, is to choose a heavier overshirt that can replace a jacket or coat. You can opt for a plain corduroy model or one in checks to elevate a slightly classic look, over a chunky knitwear jumper or a roll neck jumper. The second option is to wear the overshirt like a classic shirt. This type of overshirt can be worn buttoned up or open over a T-shirt or a light flannel shirt, in a layered look.
For the fabric, opt for a lightweight or thermoregulating cloth, such as cotton or merino wool, to avoid getting too warm (especially if you are layering up). With a considered, relaxed cut, our autumn-winter overshirts have been designed to ensure a perfect drape (while avoiding an overly oversized look) and, above all, great everyday comfort. In bright shades, from rust to water green, they are very easy to pair with your seasonal essentials, such as raw denim jeans or chinos. A contemporary look that will keep out the cold.
A Hast overshirt… 2 everyday looks
As you will have gathered, what we particularly like about the overshirt is its hybrid nature, allowing for a wide variety of looks. Our checked overshirt in recycled wool can be worn “in & out”, depending on how you style it. Depending on your mood and preferences, you can wear it in a smart outdoor spirit over a crew-neck knitwear jumper, with a beanie and a scarf. Play with colour, pairing timeless shades with vibrant nuances such as khaki or rust. An equally elegant alternative is to wear the checked overshirt under another essential from our collections, the corduroy work jacket. On the bottom, opt for light ecru trousers and derby shoes, for a perfect mix of casual and formal style.
A final word
In the spirit of the collection, which celebrates fine clothing and everyday elegance, the overshirt is a highly practical piece that is easy to wear without ever compromising your elegance.
