Let’s face it, every guy needs a shirt or two (or ten). Even if you’ve resisted the call of the shirt, it probably started back in your school days when shirts were part of the mandatory uniform. But jokes aside, a good shirt is a simple, easy-to-wear piece that works for any body type and adds an instant touch of maturity. Paired with jeans or shorts, a well-chosen shirt can make a guy look both casual and sharp.
The material and color are what matter most. Avoid those shiny, synthetic shirts - they’re hard to style and don’t feel great to wear. Shirts made with a high cotton content are best. Cotton absorbs sweat, keeps you comfortable, and gives off a luxe vibe. Here’s what to keep in mind with some classic shirt styles:
Linen Shirts
There’s nothing quite like a linen shirt for warm weather. Lightweight and breathable, a plain white linen shirt is a hot-weather essential. The catch? Linen wrinkles easily, so if you’re pairing it with a suit, handle it with care.
For casual summer days, a linen shirt paired with chinos or shorts is effortlessly cool. Throw on an unstructured blazer and loafers, and you’re ready for just about anything.
And don’t overlook checked linen shirts for a little added interest.
Short-Sleeved Shirts
A word of caution with short-sleeved shirts: avoid baggy fits with oversized sleeves hanging to your elbows. A well-fitted short-sleeve shirt should sit snugly but comfortably on your shoulders and chest.
If the sleeves feel a little long, roll them up a couple of folds. Slim-fit short sleeves work well with jeans, chinos, or shorts, along with sandals or sneakers for a laid-back vibe. White and light blue are classics, but checked or softly colored patterns can add some variety.
Collarless Shirts (Mandarin Collars)
Mandarin collar shirts balance casual and formal, giving you a relaxed yet polished look. Linen or chambray options are great for weekends, while thicker cotton styles can pair well with blazers.
With this collar style, ties are a no-go. Instead, buttoning the shirt to the top can give it a modern, sophisticated look, making the collar itself a subtle style point.
Denim Shirts
Denim shirts are a must-mention when it comes to masculine, versatile styles. Though it’s a hot-weather piece, I’ll admit I’m a fan year-round. A well-fitted denim shirt with a pocket or two is incredibly versatile.
Dark blue or washed light blue shades are ideal, pairing with almost any pants in your wardrobe. For cooler days, a denim shirt layered over a tee just hits the spot.
With double denim, remember: contrast is key. Pair a light denim shirt with darker jeans or vice versa to avoid that “denim overload” look.
These are just some shirt suggestions to get you started. Explore more options like a short-sleeved linen or a collarless denim shirt, and you’ll find your wardrobe getting more versatile in no time!
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