Shirts are essential in any man's wardrobe, but choosing the right one for the season isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re heading to a weekend BBQ or a casual day at work, picking the right shirt can make or break your summer style. Let’s walk through the key factors to consider when choosing a casual shirt for the hot months ahead.
Fit
Unlike dress shirts, casual shirts don't need to be skin-tight. They're designed with a more relaxed fit to give you room to breathe and move comfortably, especially in the chest and underarm areas.
The ideal fit contours to your body but doesn't restrict movement.
Fabric
For summer, the fabric is everything. Opt for light and breathable materials like cotton, linen, chambray, or lightweight denim. These fabrics allow airflow, keeping you cool when the temperature rises. Steer clear of shiny fabrics, as they’re better suited for dress shirts and formal occasions.
Patterns
Casual shirts give you the freedom to play with bold patterns. From polka dots and large checks to florals, the options are endless. Of course, solid colors are always safe, but keep in mind that loud patterns can be harder to wear on multiple occasions.
Strike a balance between fun and sophistication when selecting patterns.
Collars
When it comes to collar styles, stick to more casual options like the classic collar, button-down collar, mandarin collar, or the trendy Cuban collar making waves this year.
Classic collar, button-down collar, mandarin collar, and Cuban collar.
Avoid formal collars like long collars, pin collars, wing collars, or cutaway collars - they belong on dress shirts. Personally, I recommend the button-down collar for its versatility. It stays neat and works well in both work and casual settings.
Pin collar, bow tie collar, and cutaway collar.
Details
If you prefer wearing your shirt untucked, make sure it's the right length - not too long to cover your backside, but long enough to look stylish.
The length is just right to wear the shirt untucked.
Avoid shirts with exaggerated side slits, as those are best for tucked-in looks.
Double cuff shirts are not meant for casual shirts.
Casual shirts come with a variety of details, like shoulder straps or elbow patches. These military-inspired elements not only add character but also comfort to your shirt.
Collection Picks for Summer
Here are five shirts that are perfect for summer. They’re versatile, stylish, and easy to pair with just about anything:
White Shirt with Decorative & Elbow Patches: A youthful, stylish option that adds some edge to a classic white shirt.
Light Denim Shirt with Cuff Details: Denim in a light blue hue is as versatile as white, making it easy to match with almost anything.
Linen Shirt with Mandarin Collar: Perfect for sunny days, this shirt’s linen fabric keeps you cool, though it might wrinkle easily. But hey, it’s all part of the charm!
Gingham Shirt: Casual but not overly playful. Gingham is easy to style and even helps hide the beer belly.
Short Sleeve Shirt in a Unique Color: Pair this with sand-colored chinos and brown brogues for an earthy, well-coordinated summer look.
Choosing the right casual shirt for summer is all about comfort, versatility, and style. Whether you’re dressing for a laid-back weekend or a casual office day, these tips will help you pick the perfect piece.
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