A shirt is a staple in every man's wardrobe, but picking the right one, especially for summer, can be tricky. With so many styles and occasions to consider, it's important to make an informed choice. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect casual shirt for the warmer months ahead.
When it comes to style, shirts generally fall into two main categories: dress shirts and casual shirts. In this guide, we’ll focus on casual shirts, which are more relaxed, versatile, and suited for various occasions.
Key Features of a Great Casual Shirt
Fit
Casual shirts don’t need to hug your body. Instead, they should offer a slightly looser fit to ensure comfort, particularly around the chest and underarms.
You want to find a balance - fitted enough to avoid looking sloppy, but loose enough to feel breathable in the heat.
A good fit should provide both style and comfort.
Fabric
For summer, prioritize lightweight and breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, chambray, and light denim are all excellent choices. Steer clear of anything too shiny, as these fabrics are usually reserved for dress shirts and can make your look too formal. Look for shirts that breathe, keeping you cool throughout the day.
Patterns
Casual shirts are where you can really experiment with different patterns and colors. Go for bold prints like florals, checks, or polka dots if you want to stand out. Solid colors are always a reliable choice for versatility. Just remember, the louder the pattern, the harder it may be to pull off in different settings. Strike a balance between playful and practical to maximize wearability.
Bold patterns are fun but make sure they match your vibe.
Collar Styles
Common collar styles for casual shirts include the classic collar, button-down, Mandarin, and the trendy Cuban collar. These are all great for summer looks and easy to style.
Stay away from long, pin, wing, and cutaway collars, as these are meant for dressier shirts. Button-down collars, in particular, are my go-to for versatility - they're easy to maintain, don’t crease as much, and look great for both work and play.
Stick with classic and button-down collars for the most versatile looks.
Details
If you prefer wearing your shirt untucked, choose one that’s not too long - nothing that covers your whole backside. Also, avoid high side splits, which are better suited for shirts meant to be tucked in.
When it comes to sleeves, go with whatever you feel comfortable in. Short sleeves are an obvious choice for summer, but long sleeves can work too, as long as the cuffs aren’t overly formal (skip the French cuffs, guys - they’re for dress shirts).
For added style, consider casual shirts with shoulder epaulets or elbow patches. These military-inspired details can give your outfit a unique edge while also enhancing comfort.
A Few Summer-Ready Shirt Recommendations
Here are five casual shirts that are perfect for summer and easy to mix and match:
White Shirt with Color Accents and Elbow Patches: A simple, yet youthful option that adds subtle detail without being over the top.
Light Denim Shirt with Cuff Details: Light blue denim is as versatile as white and pairs well with almost any color.
Linen Shirt with a Mandarin Collar: Ideal for hot days. Sure, linen wrinkles easily, but that’s a small trade-off for looking effortlessly stylish.
Gingham Shirt: The classic check pattern is fun yet refined, making it easy to style and perfect for casual outings.
Short-Sleeve Shirt in a Unique Color: Pair this with neutral chinos and brown brogues for an earthy, summery look.
With these tips and recommendations, you'll be ready to pick the perfect casual shirt for summer.
Comments