Think shirts are just boring basics? Think again, men. From casual hangs to important presentations, the right shirt can make or break your vibe. What can the right shirt do? A lot! It can let you rock the smart casual look with a mandarin collar shirt. Make you slay on a date night in a sleek button-up. Channel your tropical vacation energy with a bold Hawaiian print.
In short, men’s shirts aren’t just clothes- they’re your personal style statement. Ready to upgrade your knowledge and your wardrobe? Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to shirts every modern man needs to know.
1) Can Men’s Shirts Break The Monotony?
Do you find yourself repeating the same boring, drab styles? Chuck them out of the window. It’s time for you to step up your fashion game. The simple shirt and trousers for men may seem classic, but they can be super monotonous. So, how do we get out of this rut and style like a pro? First, let us know about the role of shirts in menswear and their brief history.
Why Men’s Shirts Are Popular
Men’s shirts have stood the test of time as a wardrobe essential. This is because of their incredible versatility and universal appeal. Shirts effortlessly adapt to every occasion and style preference. They’re comfortable and fashionable, offering endless options to express individuality. All the while, they maintain a polished look. With the ability to be dressed up or down, shirts are a staple for men valuing functionality and flair.
Men’s Shirt Styles Evolution
Men’s shirts' evolution tells the story of changing fashion, culture, and individuality. The classic tailored shirts of the 19th century symbolised formality and status. Gradually, men’s shirts gradually became more versatile and expressive. The 20th century saw the rise of casual styles like polo shirts and T-shirts. The late 1900s introduced bold prints, patterns, and relaxed fits. Thus, men began experimenting with fashion.
Today, shirts for men are a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation. The overwhelming number of styles range from minimalist designs to edgy looks. Over the years they have become a go-to choice for men for a smart look.
2) Types of Shirts Every Man Should Know
Do you know how many types of shirts are available for men to style? The number is staggering! Some of these might already be in your wardrobe. But read on to learn quick styling tips for them. Also, discover the shirts you might be missing out on!
Plain Shirt
Plain shirts for men serve as a blank canvas for creating new styles. Made from various fabrics, they have varied textures, fits, collar, and sleeve styles. Pair them with tailored trousers, comfy chinos, or jeans depending on the occasion. It looks great whether worn as a standalone piece or layered under a blazer or sweater.
Button-down Shirt
The button-down shirt for men is a timeless classic. It was originally designed for polo players to keep their collars in place. Its structured yet relaxed look makes it perfect for casual and semi-formal occasions. It can be paired with jeans and sneakers for a laid-back vibe. Tailored trousers and sleek shoes give a polished appearance.
Checked Shirt
The checked shirt for men is a classic staple in men’s fashion. It blends timeless patterns with modern versatility. It’s great for casual outings or smart-casual occasions. This shirt comes in various styles, from bold plaids to subtle gingham. Pair it with jeans for a relaxed vibe or chinos for a polished look. It can be layered over a t-shirt or worn buttoned up.
Cotton Shirts
Cotton shirts combine supreme comfort with effortless style, perfect for all-day use. These soft shirts are available in multiple colours, patterns, and fits. The fabric is breathable, making them particularly ideal for summer use. Also, they form a good base while layering in winter since they don't add bulk. Cotton shirts are the underrated MVPs of any guy’s closet.
Cuban Collar Shirt
Cuban collar shirts are the epitome of relaxed sophistication. Their main feature is an open, notch-like collar that adds a retro vibe to your look. Perfect for warm-weather days, they are typically made from lightweight fabrics. These shirts often come in bold prints or solid colours. Pair them with tailored trousers or shorts for a stylish, vacation-ready outfit.
Double Pocket Shirts
Double pocket shirts for men combine functionality with rugged style. Featuring two chest pockets, they combine utility-inspired charm with practicality. They are made from fabrics like denim, flannel, or cotton. These shirts pair great with jeans or chinos for a laid-back yet stylish outfit. Whether for outdoor adventures or casual outings, double pocket shirts are perfect.
Half Sleeve Shirt
Half-sleeve shirts for men are a go-to choice for effortless style and comfort. They are designed to keep you looking stylish and cool in warmer weather. Their relaxed vibe and breathable design make them highly popular among men of all ages. They are ideal for casual outings, summer parties, or even a smart-casual office look. Available in a variety of patterns, prints, and colours, they pair well with jeans, shorts, or chinos.
Linen Shirt
On a sweltering day, there’s a shirt that can come to your rescue and keep you cool. It is the super breathable and lightweight linen shirt for men! The fabric has a distinctive weave and it is moisture-wicking. These shirts have a naturally wrinkled appearance, making them ideal for casual wear. Pair them with cotton chino shorts or linen trousers, and add sandals and sunglasses. You’re ready for your summer trip to tropical destinations.
Overshirt
What do you get when you cross a shirt and a jacket? The overshirt for men! It is a perfect option for transitioning between seasons. Perfect as a light jacket during a cool breeze, it can be used as an extra layer when the temperature drops. It easily adds texture and dimension to your outfit. Pair the overshirt with a solid neutral tee and jeans and trainers.
Striped Shirt
Striped shirts for men are a timeless addition to any wardrobe. From bold, eye-catching patterns to subtle pinstripes, they suit multiple occasions. Pair them with jeans for a relaxed look for casual events. For a sharp, polished outfit, wear them with tailored trousers. Whether vertical or horizontal, stripes add depth and sophistication. Striped shirts are a must-have for men seeking effortless elegance.
Textured Shirt
Textured shirts bring a unique depth and character to men’s fashion. They have the potential to elevate even the simplest outfit. They feature subtle patterns or tactile weaves like dobby, herringbone, or jacquard. Without being too bold, they are perfect for both formal and casual settings. Textured shirts for men pair seamlessly with tailored trousers or jeans. They’re a great choice for those who want to stand out with understated elegance.
Mandarin Collar Shirt
Mandarin collar shirts offer a clean, minimalist look with its short standing collar. This distinctive collar may be buttoned at the top. Modern variations sometimes feature a button or snap closure at the collar. Available in fabrics like cotton, linen, and blends, they pair well with trousers or jeans. These shirts are perfect for casual dinners, cultural festivals, or any social events.
Polo Shirt
Polo shirts have a distinct collar, relaxed fit and short buttoned placket. They are versatile and work well for casual events as well as more formal settings. Polo shirts for men are available in a wide range of colours, prints, and patterns. Pairing well with jeans or chinos, it is easy to dress this shirt up or down. Available in different fabrics, polo shirts can be worn all year round.
Henley Shirt
Imagine a mixture of a pullover, polo, and a tee- and you’ve got yourselves a Henley. It is known for its collarless design and signature buttoned placket. A Henley shirt for men combines the casual appeal of a T-shirt with a hint of rugged charm. It’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own to relaxed weekend outings to casual dinners. It is available in various fabrics and sleeve lengths. A Henley effortlessly adapts to different seasons and occasions.
Hawaiian Shirt
Think of your Goa vacation outfits. Bright, colourful, and lightweight- that’s a Hawaiian shirt, in a nutshell. These shirts are perfect for beach hangouts and casual summer parties. These rayon, cotton, or linen shirts usually feature tropical prints in vibrant colours. Hawaiian shirts for men can be worn with neutral coloured chinos or cotton twill shorts. Finish with flip-flops or slides and sunglasses.
Flannel Shirt
The flannel shirt for men, known for its warm and plush fabric, is a winter essential. Its rustic charm, often in solid colours or classic plaid, makes it perfect for casual outfits. Highly versatile, it works well layered over a T-shirt, buttoned up, or unbuttoned. Flannel shirts pair well with jeans for a rugged look or chinos for a polished touch.
Denim Shirt
Very few shirts give the wearer a certain personality as the denim shirt does. Crafted from sturdy cotton, it imparts a masculine quality to an outfit. With its twill weave, it makes you appear rugged and stylish. Denim shirts for men are usually a shade of blue, black, or grey. They can be worn with chinos or shorts and sturdy sneakers, and give a casual vibe.
Dress Shirt
A symbol of formal sophistication, dress shirts for men exude elegance. They are crafted from a fabric that maintains its rigid structure, such as poplin. This densely woven material creates a classy and elegant look for formal events. The shirt is usually longer to ensure it stays tucked in the trousers neatly. Its design is minimal and the fit can be traditional or contemporary slim fit. The collar types vary too. The spread collar, the classic point collar, and the modern cutaway collar.
3) How To Style Men’s Shirts
Men’s shirts can have the most unique style and can be made from the best fabric. But unless they are worn with the right bottomwear, they might not look good. Here are some tips to pair different types of pants with the correct shirts.
What Type Of Shirt To Wear With Wide Leg Pants
Wide leg pants are great for an easygoing look at casual events. To create a balanced yet catchy look, you need to pair it with laidback shirts.
When it comes to casual looks, these comfy and stylish shirts tick all the boxes. Their relaxed fit balances the flowy silhouette of wide leg pants.
Worn open over a solid T-shirt, a funky overshirt complements the laid-back vibe. These shirts create a cool street-style look paired with wide leg pants.
What Type Of Shirt To Wear With Jeans
Jeans are the absolute go-to pants found in any man’s wardrobe. Here are some shirts that suit regular, straight leg jeans.
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Checked Shirt or Flannel Shirt
With plain or distressed jeans, a patterned shirt pairs well. Flannel and checked shirts bring a cool geometric vibe. This combination is perfect for a casual, rugged look.
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Polo Shirt or Henley Shirt
The versatility of polos and henleys pairs perfectly with that of jeans. These shirts add a touch of casual sophistication.
What Type Of Shirt To Wear With Blazer
Blazers are the MVPs of any formal events. However, achieving a dignified look also depends on the correct choice of shirt.
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Dress Shirt
This is the classic, obvious choice for formal occasions. The minimalist, crisp shirt looks incredible with a blazer. Perfect for business events and professional appointments.
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Plain Shirt or Textured Shirt
For a business casual event, blazers still work. Instead of the fitted dress shirt, plain or textured shirts are more relaxed options. They maintain a polished yet versatile look.
Which Type Of Shirt Is Best For Baggy Jeans
Baggy jeans are the ultimate streetwear staple. To maintain that easygoing vibe, the choice of shirt matters.
Add a simple overshirt on a funky tee. A loose fit pairs well with baggy jeans, but make sure the overall look does not look sloppy.
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Graphic Polo Shirt or Striped Shirt
Quirky prints or bold stripes give a trendy, streetwear feel. Make sure the shirts have a relaxed fit since a slim fit might not suit the vibe.
Which Type Of Shirt Suits For Cargo Pants
Cargo pants give a rugged, utilitarian vibe that’s hard to beat. Pairing them with the right shirt can create an unforgettably stylish look.
Pockets, and more pockets! Amp up the utility style of cargo pants with a double pocket shirt.
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Henley Shirt or Flannel Shirt
The Henley shirt has its own rugged charm, which pairs well with cargo pants. Flannels are also a great choice with cargo pants. The heavy fabric of flannel shirts complements the sturdiness of cargos.
4) Shirt Fabric Guide
Sometimes you might get a bit confused while shopping for shirts. Which shirt fabrics are good for you? Which materials are the best during summer? And what about winter? How to look after your shirts? All of your doubts have been answered here, so continue reading!
Which Shirts Are Good For Summer
In the summer you need soft and breathable fabrics to keep you comfortable. To beat the heat, light-coloured shirts with the following fabrics are your best bet.
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Cotton
Lightweight, and breathable, cotton absorbs moisture.
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Linen
Known for its airy feel and quick-drying properties, perfect for staying cool.
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Chambray
Offers the look of denim but is much lighter and more breathable.
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Rayon
A soft, lightweight fabric that drapes well and feels great in the heat.
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Poplin
Thin and lightweight, with a dense weave that is highly breathable.
Which Fabric To Wear In Winter
Winter fabrics lock the heat in, keeping your garment comfy. Shirts made from the following materials can be worn when the temperature drops.
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Flannel
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Wool
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Corduroy
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Denim
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Tweed
Shirt Care Tips
It’s heartbreaking how many types of shirts get ruined due to improper care. Good care keeps your shirts looking fresh, crisp, and long-lasting. Read on to discover how to look after your shirts.
Washing
- Always check the care label for specific instructions.
- Wash similar colours together to avoid bleeding.
- Use a gentle cycle and mild detergent for delicate fabrics like linen or cotton.
- For tougher fabrics like denim, turn the shirt inside out to minimise fading.
Drying
- Avoid wringing out shirts; instead, gently press out excess water.
- Air-dry on a hanger to maintain the shirt's shape and avoid shrinkage.
- If using a dryer, opt for a low-heat setting. Remove shirts while they are slightly damp to prevent wrinkles.
Ironing
- Iron shirts while they’re slightly damp for better results.
- Start with the collar, move to the cuffs, and then iron the body.
- Use the appropriate heat setting based on the fabric type. Low heat for synthetic, medium for cotton, and high for linen.
Storing
- Hang shirts on sturdy hangers to keep them wrinkle-free and maintain their shape.
- For delicate fabrics, store folded in a cool, dry place to avoid stretching.
- Avoid overcrowding in the wardrobe to prevent creases and damage.
- Use moth repellents to protect your shirts from pests in long-term storage.
5) Common Questions About Men’s Shirts
Based on how many types of shirts are available for men, questions are bound to arise. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions.
Which Type Of Shirt Is Best?
The "best" shirt type depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like occasion, climate, and personal style. It is the one that makes you look stylish, feel confident and keeps you comfortable.
What Are Dress Shirts For Men?
Dress shirts are the formal shirts men wear, usually paired with a tie and a suit or a blazer. They're typically made of crisp fabrics like cotton or linen. They come in various colours, but white and light blue are the most common.
What Type Of Shirt Is Most Comfortable?
For ultimate comfort, a soft, breathable cotton t-shirt is hard to beat. It's perfect for lounging around or running errands. If you want something a bit dressier but still comfy, a linen shirt is a great option. It's lightweight and has a relaxed, airy feel.
What Is A Good Quality Shirt?
A good quality shirt is made from high-quality materials. Usually Egyptian cotton or Pima cotton are chosen. It's well-constructed with fine stitching and attention to detail. You'll notice things like smooth seams, reinforced buttons, and a tailored fit.
What Is Unisex Shirt?
Unisex shirts are designed to fit both men and women. Regardless of gender or body shape, they can fit all. They usually have an unassuming design and are a more inclusive and versatile option.
