Every guy needs at least a few solid shirts in his wardrobe, whether he likes it or not. Even if you’re not a fan of dressing up, there's no escaping the fact that shirts are an absolute staple, especially if you've ever worn them as part of a school uniform. But seriously, shirts are some of the easiest items to wear, flattering on most body types, and instantly giving you a more mature, respectable look - whether you're pairing them with jeans or even shorts.
When it comes to choosing the right shirt, fabric and color are the two most important things to focus on. Personally, I can’t stand those shiny, synthetic fabric shirts - they feel uncomfortable, they’re hard to style, and honestly, they just look cheap. Instead, aim for cotton-heavy shirts. Not only do they breathe better and absorb sweat, but matte fabrics always have a classier, more expensive appearance. Let’s break down the key points for selecting the perfect shirt:
Linen Shirts
Just hearing "linen" makes you think of summer, right? For me, a simple white linen shirt is the ultimate warm-weather essential. Linen’s loose weave makes it incredibly breathable and great for keeping you cool. However, linen tends to wrinkle easily, so think twice before trying to pair it with a suit. Linen shirts lean more toward casual looks than formal ones.
Need some quick outfit ideas? Try a light-colored linen shirt with chinos or shorts. If you want to elevate the look, throw on a lightweight blazer and a pair of loafers.
Plaid linen shirts can add a bit more flair to your summer wardrobe too.
Short-Sleeved Shirts
Here’s a crucial tip if you’re eyeing a short-sleeved shirt: stay away from baggy styles with sagging sleeves that hang down to your elbows or have sloppy shoulder fits. Trust me, no one looks good in that.
The key to short-sleeved shirts is all about fit. They should hug your frame just right - not too tight, but certainly not too loose. If the sleeves feel a bit long, roll them up a couple of times for a more tailored appearance. Some shirts even come with pre-rolled sleeves for a more laid-back vibe. I've seen a lot of these at Topman.
Slim-fit short-sleeved shirts are a fantastic choice when paired with jeans, chinos, or shorts. They work just as well with sandals as they do with sneakers. While white and light blue are classic choices, don’t be afraid to branch out. Plaid, patterns, and soft pastels can really bring your wardrobe to life.
Collarless Shirts (Mandarin Collar Shirts)
A collarless shirt strikes a nice balance between casual and dressy, giving off an effortlessly cool vibe. You’ll be surprised at how versatile they are - they easily transition between smart-casual and laid-back looks.
Linen or chambray collarless shirts are perfect for weekends, but if you need a more polished look, try a heavier cotton version under a blazer. Just remember, no ties with a collarless shirt. If you want a more formal edge, button it all the way up and let the collar itself be the focal point.
Denim Shirts
No conversation about shirts is complete without mentioning denim - probably one of the most rugged, masculine items you can own. It might still be sweltering outside, but I’m already thinking ahead to cooler days because I love denim shirts, and I’m sure a lot of you do too.
The best denim shirts are simple, well-fitted, and often feature one or two chest pockets, like an Oxford shirt. Personally, I lean toward dark blue or washed-out light blue denim because they pair so well with almost everything I own. And when the temperature drops after a rainstorm, there’s nothing better than tossing a denim shirt over a T-shirt for a laid-back, layered look.
Just a quick tip on the double-denim look: always make sure your shirt and jeans are different shades. If your shirt’s light, go for dark indigo, black, or charcoal jeans. Keep that contrast sharp.
These are just a few ideas to help you choose shirts that can easily mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond these examples - a short-sleeved linen shirt or a collarless denim shirt can completely refresh your look, giving you a wardrobe that’s both stylish and versatile.
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