If you’re wondering how to tuck in shirt, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect article. We’ll discuss a few of the most popular tuck styles, how to wear them, and when not to wear them.
Your outfit can look put together and dress code-ready by tucking in a button-up shirt or formal dress shirt. To create different looks, tuck a shirt in either loosely or firmly.
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What To Tuck & What Not To Tuck?
If you keep your shirt stylish, ensure that it fits properly, and that it isn’t bulky or baggy, tucking it in need not make you look like a nerd or an old man.
When should your shirt be tucked in? It’s a subject that is frequently contested. Here are a few guidelines:
Shirts with a flat bottom hem are intended to be worn out of the tuck. But if the shirt has visible “tails” — that is to say, the hem varies in length, rather than being even all the way around — it should always be tucked in.
It is acceptable to wear a shirt with the tails out. However, it is a young one. It gives you the appearance of a teen rebel at an adult wedding when there is nothing else on the upper body. Being untucked makes you appear as though you’re making an effort to look stylishly rumpled, whether you’re wearing a jacket or a suit.
Some men will be adamant about wearing their shirt artfully untucked. But in my opinion, tucking in a shirt with tails will always make you look more dapper and mature.
If your shirt doesn’t have visible tails, there’s more leeway on whether you should leave it tucked or untucked:
- Undershirts — If there’s any chance that they might protrude from your other layers, these can always be tucked in and should be. When possible, tuck undershirts into underclothes (more on this below).
- Polo shirts — They can be worn untucked but are frequently tucked in for a slightly more dressy appearance, especially by golfers. They have an even hem. Conversely, rugby shirts, their long-sleeved cousins, are hardly ever tucked in.
- Turtleneck/roll collars — These are frequently tucked in so that the belt buckle is visible when worn beneath a sports jacket or blazer. It’s better to leave them untucked when they’re on their own.
- Hawaiian shirts — No matter how big the hem is on these or any other loud-print shirts, they don’t get tucked in. Just don’t, I beg you. Tucked-in vacation shirts are the quirkiest thing ever. Guayaberas also fit into this category.
- T-shirts — Here, opinions will range widely. Others will think you look like a complete nerd. Some subcultures love the tucked T-shirt with the obvious belt buckle. It largely depends on the shirt, the belt, the pants, and your overall fashion sense. In general, don’t tuck the T-shirt unless it’s a conscious fashion statement.
5 Types Of Shirt Tucks
You can tuck your shirt in in a variety of ways, believe it or not. Which of the following techniques is best depends on the type of shirt you’re wearing, what you’re pairing it with, and the style you’re going for.
1. The Loose Tuck
Since you were old enough to dress yourself for school, you’ve probably always tucked your shirt in using this method, which is the simplest. But that doesn’t mean it can’t still be useful.
The loose tuck is good for speed and convenience; to do it properly, tuck the extra fabric at the hem of your shirt into the waistband of your trousers, keeping it even all the way around, before fastening your zip and buttons and holding everything in place with your favorite belt.
- Start with a non-form-fitting shirt or polo that has been ironed.
- Beginning at the back of your pants and moving to the front, tuck your shirt into your waistband. The objective is to completely tuck the bottom of your shirt into your pants, so it doesn’t have to be perfect.
- To complete the look, gently raise your arms or shrug your shoulders to give it a looser appearance.
2. The Military Tuck
Once you start using the military tuck, you won’t stop. Nothing is worse than when your shirt’s fabric starts to bunch up around the front and become sloppy and unsightly (of course, this is subjective). That issue is completely resolved by this approach.
- As you have been doing for years, tuck your shirt into your waistband. However, instead of stopping there and buttoning up, go around the front and sides of your waistband with your thumbs to smooth out any wrinkles or bunching from the front of the shirt.
- Make sure that the placket on your shirt aligns with the zipper on your pants by pinching the fabric at each side and folding it back on itself to give it a fitted appearance. Last but not least, take a step back and look at the mirror to admire your work.
3. The Underwear Tuck
Contrary to what the name might imply, the underwear tuck doesn’t involve tucking your shirt into your underwear. When there is an undershirt present, it’s actually a layered tucking technique that works well.
- Put on your boxers or briefs and tuck the extra fabric at the bottom of the undershirt inside. After you’ve given yourself some time to appreciate your appearance in the mirror, put on your shirt, pants, and tuck your shirt in as usual.
- You could choose a military tuck on the last step if you really want to step things up.
4. The Half Tuck
The front of your shirt is tucked into your pants for the half-tuck, as the name implies, and the back is left loose. Nevertheless, the rest of us would be wise to steer clear of this fashion, despite rumors that Ralph Lauren himself has “approved” it. Unless, of course, you want to appear to be a college rugby player out with the team.
- Front of shirt should be loosely tucked into waistband.
- Without untucking the front of your shirt, shrug your shoulders to loosen the look.
- Remove any creases and check that the rest of the shirt hangs loosely, not clumped up on the sides or the back.
5. The Jacket Tuck
The sin of a baggy shirt is one that a good, well-fitting jacket can conceal.
“If your shirt is quite full and you wear a jacket you can cheat a bit,” explains Emma Willis.”Pull the fullness back to make the front smooth and tuck the extra fabric under your jacket at the back. To tuck in, pull down firmly.”
How To Tuck In A Shirt?
1. Front Tuck/Half Tuck
The front tuck is the most adaptable tuck you can use and goes with nearly every neckline and style of top, including slim-fit shirts. It is well-liked, simple, and takes practically no time to finish.
Your body will appear less linear if your shirt is tucked in, drawing attention to your waist instead. It results in a relaxed, carefree appearance. When you wear a front tuck, you tuck the front of your shirt into your pants but leave the back untucked.
This can cover the whole front of your shirt or just a small portion of it. Both are incredibly lovely!
When To Wear A Front Shirt Tuck
It’s simple to add style and definition to an oversized shirt by using a front tuck. It can be used for thin tops as well, which might look strange with high-rise or mid-rise pants and skirts. Jeans are typically worn with front tucks.
When To Not Wear A Front Tuck
The front shirt tuck may look too casual if you’re going to a formal event. Whenever possible, you should try to avoid wearing the front tuck with long tunics or chunky sweaters. The front tuck won’t highlight your waist; instead, it will cause lumps in the fabric of your shirt and cause it to bunch up when tucked in.
How To Do A Front Tuck
- First, if you’re wearing a blouse or tight shirt, check to see that it is properly ironed and wrinkle-free.
- Using your other hand, make a gap in your preferred pair of pants by gathering the hemline of your top at the front. Incorporate the hem into your pants’ exposed opening.
- Make sure your shirt’s hem is pressed flat against you and isn’t bunched up or forming an unsightly pouch at the bottom.
- Pull gently on the tug to create the desired effect if you want the front tuck to look a little looser.
2. Full Tuck
The full tuck is a classic for any kind of dress-up party, formal occasion, your typical workday, or during a job interview. It has a timeless appearance that can immediately spruce up your wardrobe. The full tuck is when your entire hem is completely tucked away and hidden. It gives the appearance that your entire outfit is one fluid piece.
When To Wear A Full Tuck
With high-waisted bottoms of any kind, such as high-waisted skirts or pants, a full tuck looks great. Without incurring additional costs, it offers a tailored appearance. The best time to wear a fully tucked-in shirt is to formal occasions.
When Not To Wear A Full Tuck
Avoid using a full tuck if your pants have a low waist. With low waisted pants, the tuck usually unravels and does not sit properly. It won’t tuck in completely or properly if you’re wearing a bulky top. (For a bulky top, like a sweater, try a front tuck.
How To Do A Full Tuck
- First, if you’re wearing a blouse or tight shirt, make sure it is properly ironed and wrinkle-free.
- While pulling the hem of your top together, use your other hand to make a gap in your preferred pair of pants. Your pants’ open opening should now contain the hem.
- Make sure the hem is pressed flat against you and isn’t twisted or forming an unsightly pouch.
3. The Loose Full Tuck
If you still want to tuck your shirt in but need a less formal option, you can use the loose tuck, which is similar to the full tuck. The same guidelines for a full tuck should always be followed, including wearing high-waisted pants with it.
However, a skin-tight shirt will not work with loose tucks. A loose tuck provides more room for a more relaxed appearance than a full tuck, which is the main distinction between the two.
How to do a Loose Full Tuck
- Before starting to tuck your shirt, you should first make sure it is ironed and in good condition. The tuck will appear sloppy if it isn’t straightened or ironed.
- Your shirt should be fully tucked in. Starting at the backside and working your way around to the front is the simplest way to perform a front tuck. In order to achieve a fully tucked appearance if your shirt still isn’t tucked in all the way, try pulling up your pants.
- To make a little more room once you’ve tucked it in, shrug while lifting your shoulders.
- To achieve the loose tuck look, raise your arms all the way above your head.
4. Knotted/Tie Tuck
Easy and enjoyable to perform is the tie tuck. It’s ideal for a laid-back beach outing or a dinner with friends. Compared to the front or full tuck, it is a more relaxed option. Tie tucks can be used to create an unofficial crop top and go well with long t-shirts.
By tying your shirt in a knot that typically hangs to the side, you can make a tie tuck. Rather than donning a long or bulky garment, it helps to create a clean appearance that highlights your body shape.
When To Use A Knotted Style Or Tie Tuck
When wearing thinner-material shirts, the tie tuck is ideal. This kind of tie goes well with long tunics. The tie tuck gives your outfit a playful feel. Use it at a laid-back gathering like a farmer’s market or outdoor sporting event.
When Not To Use A Knot
Only thin, long materials should be used with a tie tuck. If your shirt is too thick, your tie forms a massive, long knot, or your shirt is too short, you shouldn’t use the tie tuck. In a formal or professional setting, the tie tuck is inappropriate.
How To Do A Knotted Tee Or Tie Tuck
- First, with one hand, gather all of your clothing onto one side of your body.
- Once the fabric feels nice and tight, keep twisting it.
- The fabric is wrapped around your fingers. To fit through the hole you just made, completely wrap the fabric around and under.
- Then, pull it through to tie a knot. If you want a tighter knot, pull both ends together. Pull the knot’s knob for a looser knot if you prefer.
How To Keep Your Shirt Tucked In?
Tucking your shirt in can be tricky because even if it looks great at home, it can look sloppy and unkempt when you’re out and about. Consequently, how do you maintain a tucked-in shirt?
The best, most reliable trick is to wear a body suit if you want a smooth full tuck appearance. There are so many adorable ones available today, and they are cozy! You won’t have to keep putting your shirt back in your pants or skirt all day because the top will stay in place and give you a sleek silhouette!
You can learn some tips from businessmen who wear shirt stays if you’re very serious about keeping your shirts in place (for example, if you wear a uniform or it’s crucial to look professional at all times for your job). They are elastic straps that connect your shirt’s bottom to your socks or a garter so that your shirt stays smooth all day.
Utilizing our detailed advice and instructions, tucking your shirt is simple. Your outfit will always be on point and appropriate for your outing if you know the right tuck to do and how to do it. This will save you time and energy.
Shirt Tucking Dos And Don’ts
- DO: Never wear a dress shirt without tucking it in.
- DON’T: Every shirt with a straight hem needs to be tucked in.
- DO: Based on how much of a curve a shirt has at the hem, decide whether or not it needs to be tucked in.
- DON’T: Have you ever tried to recreate David Beckham’s “one tail in, one tail out” pose?
- DO: To achieve a shirt front free of creases, use a military tuck.
- DON’T: Wear shirt stays unless you are certain that you won’t be taking off your pants in front of company.
How To Style A Tucked-in Shirt?
To generate new outfit suggestions, experiment with various tucking methods. Consider the following style tips:
- Throw a blazer over your tucked-in shirt. A blazer can be worn with khakis, jeans, or chinos. To create a smart casual ensemble suitable for office or party wear, tuck your shirt into your pants, add a belt, and put on a blazer.
- Try a tee with high-rise pants. Wearing high-rise pants and using the loose tuck technique to tuck in a white T-shirt will help you style a chic, beltless ensemble. A front half tuck can be tried if there is sufficient extra material.
- Go for a half tuck on the side. Wear flowy tops with skinny jeans or tapered leather pants that are only tucked in on one side for a more avant-garde, asymmetrical look. A half tuck produces a draping effect.
- Try a criss-cross tuck. Put on a button-down shirt that is one size larger than usual. Once your shirt is tucked in the back, grab the bottom left front corner and tuck it into the right side of your pants. To create a loose but fashionable V-shape, grab the right side of the shirt and cross it over the portion of the shirt that is tucked in to tuck it into the left side of your pants.
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The Bottom Line
This article’s objective is to introduce you to a few strategies that could help you avoid the inconvenience of an improper or untucked shirt.
In this extensive shirt tuck guide, we discussed a variety of shirt tucking techniques, how to keep your shirt tucked in all day, and some fashion ideas for how to wear the various shirt tucks.
That should cover most of your questions about tucking in your shirt, in my opinion. That’s all I have to say at this time; hopefully you found it useful.
