How to Tuck in a Shirt?

Tucking in a shirt is one of those things that should be easy, but it turns out to require an art form. If worn correctly, it will take the most basic of looks from meh to wow. Take a look through the history of tucking, and then let’s delve into some oldies but goodies mixed with renewed grace.

The Classic Tuck

This is the simplest way to tuck your shirt. Here’s how:

1. Iron: Your shirt should be wrinkle-free. Smooth it out as such.
2. Get the Extra: Where your tee is loose at either side, you should pinch it.
3. Beneath Your Pants or Skirt: Slide the bunches of fabric into your trousers or skirt.
4. Run Your Hand Back Across: Check for lumps or wrinkles.

Tips

• You can even wear a belt instead of using suspenders to keep your tuck in place.
• If wearing your shirt tucked with a jacket, be sure the waist is all the way down.

The Half Tuck

A half tuck like this is a laid-back and fun way to wear a shirt. Here’s how to do it:

1. The Front Tuck: The front of your shirt is tucked into the pants while its entirety hangs out from behind.
2. Tuck Length: Patric says, Antares recommends experimenting with tucking lengths for different looks.

Tips

• This style is best when paired with long shirts.
• Wear it with jeans or chinos for a casual look.

The French Tuck

A French tuck, on the other hand, is a refined half-tuck. Here’s how:

1. Center Your Tuck: Center the front portion and tuck it in, leaving the sides.
2. Make a Single Side Drape: Use your hand and pull down the sides of the shirt for what I call a one-sided “drape.”

Tips

• Fashion Tip: This style fits very well with both dress pants and tailored trousers.
• Wear it under a blazer to complete your suave appearance.

The Tuck with Release

Create a layered look with this tuck. Here’s how:

1. Shirt Tuck In: Tuck the shirt properly inside.
2. Release Sides: Carefully pull the sides of your shirt out to make a tiered look.

Tips

• This type of layered style is great with oversized shirts or tunics.
• Specially designed to wear with jeans or leggings for a casual look.

Examples of Tucking Different Shirts

• Oversized Shirts: This tucking rule can be tricky for oversized shirts. Half tuck or untucked looks great.
• Dress Shirts: Tuck it all the way in and use a belt to keep your dress shirt secure with pants. Wear under another layer that can be unbuttoned with a blazer.
• T-Shirts: Can tuck to leave tucked but usually better untucking. If you tuck it in, try the half-tuck or French tuck.

How to Tuck (by Body Type)

• Tall: You can wear your shirt tucked in or just out.
• Curvy: Should take the shirt in to define your waist.

Fashion Hacks

• Wear a Vest Over: Usually, you would hide behind the tucked-in shirt, so something like a vest can also be put on.
• Belt: You can wear a belt to help keep your tuck in, minimize any bunching, and give more of an impression.
• Play Around with Various Fabrics: Since the different drapability of each fabric plays a big part in how to tuck yourself, experimenting really is the key.

Just remember, the best way to discover what works for you is by trying out new styles of tucking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles until you find one that suits your liking.

FAQs

How to Tuck in a Shirt That You Left Out Without Being Sloppy

Off Screen Threads suggests to smooth out the fabric and re-tuck your shirt, taking care to smooth any wrinkles. Alternatively, if you need a short-term cover-up, then half tucking or French tucking is perfect.

What to Do About an Untucked Shirt

A belt is your best friend! It serves both as a style and shirt holder. Another way to avoid the untucking is by choosing the fabric well. Cotton fabric is also much harder to come untucked from than satin or other slippery fabrics.

What Tucking Style Is Best for My Body Type?

French tuck or classic tuck with a white top to lengthen the leg line. Tucking is something you need to play around with, as everyone has a tuck style that suits them best.

• Tucked / Untucked: Both can work
• Curvy: Use the half-tuck or French tuck to define your waist.

Are There Any Shirts I Can’t Tuck In?

The vast majority of shirts are to be tucked, with some obviously less tuck-mode appropriate than others. Half tuck—or even a full, semi-“release” style for some of those oversized shirts. Try different combinations and see which one works the best for you!