Shirts To Have In Your Wardrobe
When building a functioning wardrobe for all occasions with male personal styling clients, it’s very important to have a good selection of shirts to hand. If they are not there we go out and buy them and when said shirts have been purchased I show you when and how to wear them. Many many clients have difficulty differentiating between a day, going out (this one confuses the hell out of people), casual and a smart casual shirt, so consequently end up looking the same 24 7.
If this is you below are some suggestions to add variation to your wardrobe.
The Corporate Shirt
Out of all the different types of shirts for men, the work shirt ( if you don’t work in said corporate environment skip this section) is one you’ll likely get the most wear out of. It should be smart, a perfect fit, immaculate and clean. Popular colours to choose from are a solid crisp white (yellowing is a non no), pale pink or light blue and can be a solid colour, gingham, or stripe. If feeling adventurous light purples and crimsons also feature in the office shirt category. Look for a breathable poplin to maintain a fresh non nonsense look throughout the day. Unless heading out straight from the office, I’d keep these for office hours only.
The Oxford
The Oxford shirt traditionally made in slightly thicker fabrics with a button-down collar is a menswear classic, one that serves as a building block for all smart casual to casual modes of dress. Making it one of the most versatile shirts in any wardrobe. Works for business casual, restaurant, bar, club and date night. Fitted styles paired with slim darker jeans or chinos and Chelsea boots create a sharp look.
The Overshirt
Falling somewhere between a shirt and a jacket also known as a ‘shacket’, this essential is generally made from thick cotton twill or wool and features a button fastening and several patch pockets to the front. It is among the most versatile garments in any wardrobe and can be dressed up with a turtle or crew neck sweater for date night or down with a hoody and tee.
The Flannel Shirt
Following on from the overshirt is the flannel shirt, which can be used as both a shirt or overshirt. It’s thick, warm and ideal for layering up when winter sets in. This is a casual classic in wool or cotton, making it comfortable and great for insulation in colder temperatures. If you are on the slighter shorter side opt for a small to mid-scale check so as not to overwhelm.
The Denim/Chambray Shirt
A denim shirt is robust, great for layering, and can often look better as it fades with age. A great way of injecting some texture into your wardrobe.
If a denim shirt is too much for your liking, try a Chambray style. Chambray has a denim like appearance but is a much lighter fabric. Chambray shirts can be dressed up or down, worn to a business-casual office, date night or to the bar for a night out.
The Cuban Collar Shirt
Originally a summer staple, but long and short sleeve printed versions are to be found in abundance this winter. The Cuban or Camp collar as it is also known, features a spread collar, is made in a fluid (silk, jersey, or viscose) fabric and can be either plain or printed. Making this a great shirt for an evening out, in either relaxed or oversized styles for bars, clubs, or gigs, or a more fitted style for dining out.
Mandarin/ Grandad Collar
A versatile but often overlooked shirt option for any wardrobe, which works just as well in summer and winter depending on the fabric. Wear this winter dressed down with blue jeans for a casual vibe and with more fitted black jeans or slim chinos for evening.
The Dress Shirt
The dress code of when to wear this style of shirt is very clear, black-tie! This classic evening shirt will usually be made of a slightly thicker pique fabric, sometimes with a bib, a wing, pointed or cut away collar and a double cuff requiring cuff links. Buy quality here as a good investment will last for years.
What Type of Shirt Looks Best on Me?
Knowing your body-shape is key. Try some different styles and brands out, as every brand sizes differently and you may need a brand that caters for a lean figure, broad shoulders. You don’t want the shirt to be too tight around the chest and arms where it restricts your movement and if you do struggle finding a shirt to fit consider getting it altered to create the perfect fit.
If you are unsure what works for you, get in touch to see how my menswear personal styling services can assist you.
Thank you for reading!
Lisa
