Ever pulled on a t-shirt and wished it looked a little more lived-in, cooler, or just more you? Maybe you’ve seen celebs and streetwear influencers rocking tees with strategic slashes and raw hems and thought, “Can I pull that off?” If you’re curious about cut up shirts — whether store-bought or DIY — this guide breaks down how to wear them, what to pair them with, and how to make the style feel intentional instead of accidental.
Why cut up shirts are a modern wardrobe staple
Cut up shirts, distressed tees, and slashed shirts tap into a simple idea: imperfection as style. The look reads effortless and rebellious without shouting for attention. In menswear, these pieces offer texture and attitude, pairing perfectly with tailored items to create contrast or with relaxed separates for a full-on streetwear vibe. As festival season and casual dressing continue to dominate, cut up shirts remain a versatile option for men looking to update their core rotation.
How to choose the right cut up shirt
Fabric matters: pick the right base
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen respond best to cutting and distressing — they fray nicely and keep a premium look. A heavyweight cotton tee holds shape and looks intentional; a thin jersey will look more worn and fragile. If you’re buying, check the label: 100% cotton or a cotton blend with a high percentage of natural fiber is ideal.
Fit and silhouette
Consider how the cut up shirt will interact with your body and other layers. A slim, slightly cropped distressed tee works well with high-waisted trousers or tapered denim. An oversized cut up shirt reads contemporary when paired with straight-leg jeans or cargo pants. If you prefer structure, wear the shirt under a blazer or field jacket to balance the raw edges with crisp tailoring.
Placement and style of the cuts
Small side slits, neckline fraying, or subtle chest cuts are low-commitment and easy to style. Bold, asymmetric slashes are statement-making and often best reserved for evenings or trend-focused events. Look for shirts where the cuts appear deliberate and balanced — symmetry rarely matters, but intention does.
How to style cut up shirts
Here are practical outfit ideas for different occasions. These combinations use layered textures and proportion to keep the look sharp and wearable.
Casual day look: relaxed and approachable
- Cut up shirt in a neutral (white, olive, black)
- Lightwash straight-leg jeans
- Low-top canvas sneakers or minimal leather trainers
- Simple accessories: leather bracelet or a cap
Tuck the front of the tee slightly into the jeans for shape. This outfit gives off an easy weekend vibe without trying too hard.
Smart-casual: contrast with tailoring
- Dark cut up shirt or subtly distressed black tee
- Tailored blazer in navy or charcoal
- Chino trousers or slim wool pants
- Derby shoes or Chelsea boots
The trick is contrast: the blazer elevates the distressed tee, making it office-appropriate for creative environments or great for dates.
Night out / festival-ready
- Bold cut up shirt with side slits or chest cuts
- Black skinny jeans or cargo pants
- Chunky boots or statement sneakers
- Layer with a bomber jacket or oversized denim
Add a few rings or a chain to complete the festival or concert look — just don’t overdo it; the shirt should still be the focal point.
DIY: How to make your own cut up shirts (safe steps)
If you want to customize a thrifted tee, this simple method produces a clean, wearable result:
- Choose a sturdy tee and wash it first to pre-shrink the fabric.
- Mark your cut lines lightly with chalk — try small neck frays or a couple of horizontal chest slits.
- Use sharp fabric scissors; make steady, confident cuts.
- For a raw hem, cut a straight line across the bottom and wash the tee to encourage fraying.
- Don’t overdo it. Cut a little, try it on, then adjust.
For more DIY techniques and step-by-step visuals, check out our DIY Fashion section.
Care tips to keep cut up shirts looking intentional
Distressed areas can unfold further if treated roughly. Turn shirts inside out before washing on a gentle cycle, use cold water, and air-dry when possible. Repair small rips with subtle stitching if a cut spreads too much — the goal is an authentic look, not an unwearable mess.
Style inspiration and real-world advice
Men who pull off cut up shirts well treat them like one piece of a composed outfit. If the shirt is heavily distressed, simplify other elements: neutral colors, clean footwear, and minimal accessories. For a bolder look, treat the shirt as an accent piece — pair it with patterned jackets or layered necklaces. Remember context: a cut up shirt suits casual environments, nightlife, and creative workplaces more than formal business settings.
Want more foundational tips? Browse our Style Basics and Wardrobe Essentials guides for capsule ideas and pairing suggestions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are cut up shirts appropriate for work?
It depends on your workplace. Creative offices and casual Fridays may welcome a subtle distressed tee under a blazer. For conservative, corporate environments, avoid cut up shirts or keep them fully covered by structured layers.
2. How do I avoid making a DIY cut up shirt look cheap?
Use quality materials and start with small, deliberate cuts. Balance the distressed piece with polished items like tailored trousers or leather shoes. Keep colors neutral and avoid excessive holes or fraying.
3. Can older men wear cut up shirts?
Absolutely. Age shouldn’t limit style. The key is proportion and context: older men can opt for subtler distressing and pair the shirts with refined pieces — think structured jackets, neat trousers, and classic footwear.
Conclusion — Own the look with confidence
Cut up shirts are a great tool for injecting personality into your wardrobe. Whether you buy a designer slashed tee or create a DIY distressed piece, focus on fit, fabric, and balance. Use the outfit ideas above to build looks that feel like you — from casual weekends to nights out. Ready to try the trend? Start with one neutral cut up shirt and experiment with layers and proportions until you find your signature style.
Liked this guide? Subscribe for more menswear tips, or head to our DIY Fashion and Style Basics pages to keep exploring. Try wearing a cut up shirt this week and share your look — confidence is the final piece of style.
