Lemondrop

Got a style question? Ask the experts! Our resident fashion genius Brian will help you find the perfect way to wear your favorite pieces. Send us a pic of the garment in question, let us know where you want to wear it and Brian will give you some suggestions.

Q: I went shopping with a friend a few weeks ago and picked up this checked shirt that I thought would look great with my dark skinny jeans. I loved it in the store but once I got home and put it back on, I felt like I was wearing a big plaid tent. It's been sitting in my closet ever since. Is there any way I can make it work?

A: This season, everything except Bernie Madoff''s checking account is oversize. From boyfriend blazers to harem pants, big and voluminous is where it's at. The problem with these loose-fitting pieces is that they can look sloppy because they're meant to be, well, loose-fitting. But keep the sales receipt tucked away in your wallet for no. I think all you need to do is give this shirt a little shape with some lightweight layers and accessories.

Click here for Brian's style suggestions.

Put on a menswear-inspired vest like this one by Nanette Lepore over your plaid shirt. The diagonally-oriented double pockets combined with the vertical line created by its buttons with help to slim your upper half and counteract the top's bagginess.

Use a wide belt to accentuate your waist and create a flattering hourglass silhouette. I like this woven one by Guess: its texture will add some nice depth to your look.

You're choice of a boho-inspired strappy sandal is spot on. I'd just swap the flat for a stacked heel or wedge for extra height. Those few additional inches will make it less likely that a blousy shirt will overwhelm your frame. Try a pair like this one by Full Tilt.

Since this look is pretty casual I'd avoid a structured handbag and choose a messenger bag like this one by Melie Bianco instead. It will echo the cool, downtown vibe of your shirt and the long line of its strap across your torso will also help to visually slim you.

Brian Underwood is a fashion and style expert based in New York City.