How to adopt the relaxed fit trend
It's not just about sizing up.
The menswear landscape is always shifting. Right now, slim styles are stepping back, giving way to more relaxed and oversized fits in a bid to shift to a more laid back way of dressing. If you want to jump onto the trend but not sure how to do so without looking like you went up a size by mistake, here’s everything you need to know to embrace tailoring’s new direction.
What is a relaxed fit?
Despite how it sounds, relaxed fits aren't just about wearing a bigger size - it's a deliberately looser and more comfortable profile than tailored or slim fits. Relaxed fits tend to more casual, but that’s changing a little as looser tailoring moves into the mainstream.
You might also see certain clothes labelled as 'oversized'. While it’s true you could wear a larger size for a roomier, streetwear-style fit, if an item is oversized, it’s been specifically cut in a more relaxed fit in proportion to your size.
Relaxed fit trousers or jeans are a style that usually features wider leg and a more generous fit through the hips and thighs. For relaxed fit t-shirts and shirts it’s similar, with a broader cut across the shoulders and chest so the fabric drapes more casually, rather than being structured. Shackets and overshirts are usually more of a relaxed fit as they’re designed to be layered. The same goes for relaxed fit jumpers, hoodies and outerwear.
Do relaxed fits exist in men's fashion?
Relaxed and oversized fits aren’t new, coming in and out of fashion over the decades. They definitely feel right again in 2025, with looser outfits taking the place of the tight, fitted looks of the 2010s.
From the men’s runways through to the best-dressed guys out there, we’re seeing more relaxed and slouchy looks especially when it comes to suits, thanks in large to the recent resurgence in ‘90s and Y2K style.
How to style a relaxed fit
While a relaxed or oversized fit can be more comfortable and appear a little looser, it’s still important to get the right size. Our oversized pieces are cut in a way that allows you to buy your usual size and still achieve that relaxed look. Sizing up may cause your outfit to look like it’s too big or unbalanced – keeping your style and proportions in place is the key to doing oversized outfits without feeling like you’re being consumed by your clothes. Consider pairing a wider trouser with a fitted tee to ease into the trend.
Layering is a great way of experimenting with relaxed fits, like adding an oversized shacket or overshirt to an otherwise fitted outfit. It’s a simple addition, and can take something fairly dressy down a notch. Just try one piece such as a pleated or linen trousers in a looser fit, and keep the rest of your outfit more tailored; you don’t need to jump head first into oversized fits straight away. If that's your vibe, however, our relaxed fit suits in linen, flannel and a cotton-linen blend are the way to go.
Keeping some tailored elements and structure to your outfit can help shake off the feeling of wearing clothes that aren’t the right size. It’ll feel different to your usual more fitted style at first, especially if you’re choosing more relaxed, unstructured fabrics like linen. Experiment with layering an oversized shirt, which can easily be styled with your existing suits to add new flare to an old outfit.
Don’t be scared to try some tucking and folding either, especially if you’re wondering how to style an oversized tee or jumper. You’ll be surprised how different an oversized fit works with a strategically rolled sleeve or a tuck at the waistband – it can totally change the proportions, fit, and feel of an outfit. Turn up the bottom of a relaxed-fitting trouser and style with a boot, or consider layering a tucked-in fitted tee under an oversized shirt or shacket. Throw on a higher waisted relaxed trouser with fitted knitwear, or vice versa. The options are endless, and experimentation is key.
Is a relaxed fit suit a thing?
Wondering if you can do relaxed formalwear? One way to take on the softer tailoring trend is to move away from slim fit suit styles and trying out looser fits. Like our ecru herringbone striped suit – it’s cut from superfine wool on our most generous block with a boxier jacket and more room in the thigh and seat. Skip the tie and enhance its slouchier feel with a soft knit instead. And don’t be scared to add some trainers – it’s about easing up the whole aesthetic.
This style works better for more casual events if you’re feeling tentative, but it can definitely work for more dressed-up codes too – some of the world’s most stylish guys have been seen in oversized looks at major events in the past 12 months.
If you really want to go easy on relaxed style, try some oversized accessories with a laid-back suit instead. A chunky scarf or hat with a more fitted outfit might feel a bit easier to wear, and still allows for a bit of experimentation.
