Oversized and exaggerated silhouettes are sashaying down runways and into everyday wardrobes. Here’s how you can style them
The viral red ‘cartoon boots’. Pic Courtesy/Archive Threads on Instagram
Minimalism is passe. So is playing safe with colours, shapes and silhouettes. This is 2025, after all, where fashion is making a determined return to outrageous playfulness and theatrical whimsicality, a year where more is more, and rules exist to be broken. It follows only naturally then that asymmetry, drama and imbalance are taking centre stage. Exaggerated silhouettes that combine volume, drama and elaborate construction are leading from the front, whether on runways or in high-street catalogues.
(From left) Tracee Ellis Ross wears puffy satin pants. Pic Courtesy/Traceeellisross on Instagram (middle) Tamannaah Bhatia in an exaggerated fishtail ensemble. Pic Courtesy/Shaleenanathani on Instagram (right) Exaggerated pieces pair well with streamlined separates. Pic Courtesy/Evelilycp on Instagram
While social media has been buzzing with creators posting videos of outlandish ‘cartoon boots’, inflatable pants and quilt-like puffer jackets, elements reminiscent of the trend such as puffed sleeves, structured peplums, balloon hems, wide cut pants, layered looks, oversized boxy jackets, or even hyper-voluminous skirts have filtered down into the wardrobes of experimental dressers. And, if you are keen to replicate this trend, image consultant Greeshma Thampi lays down a few basic guidelines to help you get started.
Cynthia Erivo’s all black take on the trend. Pic Courtesy/ashistudio on Instagram
A matter of balance
“Let the exaggerated piece be the focal point of your look. The rest of your outfit, including your accessories, should be relatively subtle so that they support and not compete with the statement piece. Pick bags, shoes and belts in clean and structured shapes to create a visual contrast against the bulk of oversized garments. Similarly, sleek hairstyles and minimal make-up keeps attention focused on the statement piece,” Thampi advises.
Greeshma Thampi
Structure mantras
She also recommends pairing an oversized piece with a more structured and streamlined garment. An oversized skirt, for instance, wears well with a tailored blouse, while an exaggerated jacket will stand out when paired with a column or sheath dress. A very structured or billowy top can be paired with tailored cigarette pants or leggings. If you are wearing two or more oversized pieces together — such as a jacket and wide-leg trousers — stick to neutral or monochrome colour palettes. This makes the outfit look less busy and more put together.
Oversized, not shapeless
Depending on the fabric, use a belt or a corset to cinch your waist and define your silhouette. Another way to make the look more defined while still being effortless is to show a hint of skin, says Thampi. “You could roll up the sleeves of your jacket, wear pants or skirts that end at your ankles, or choose a wider neckline. Juxtaposing voluminous garments with skin not only helps to break up the volume but also keeps the look from seeming too overwhelming. Intentionally drawing attention to your slimmest areas also makes your overall look seem more streamlined,” she explains.
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