Don't confuse a denim shirt with a "jeans shirt" - that's a surefire way to get laughed at! While both are crafted from denim fabric, pants are jeans, and shirts are denim shirts. These classic pieces have stood the test of time since the 19th century, evolving from humble workwear to runway staples, street style icons, and even sophisticated office attire. If you don’t own a denim shirt yet, what are you waiting for?
Fit and Form
Fit is crucial for all clothing, but it’s especially subjective with denim shirts. Whether you prefer an oversized look or a snug fit, go with what feels right for you. Personally, I favor a classic fit: well-fitting shoulders, a snug (but not tight) body, and a length that extends past the waistline - long enough to tuck in if needed.
Design Variations
Denim shirts come in a variety of styles, but focus on these three key designs:
Western-style denim shirt.
Western-style Denim Shirts: The most iconic design, characterized by pointed yoke seams, two chest pockets, and snap buttons. This style embodies the rugged cowboy culture of the American West.
Button-down Denim Shirts.
Button-down Denim Shirts: Similar to traditional button-downs but made from denim fabric. They offer a relaxed yet polished look suitable for casual outings.
Plain, Simple Denim Shirts.
Plain, Simple Denim Shirts: For a more elegant approach, opt for a plain design with pointed, spread, or cut-away collars, making it ideal for work or smart casual settings.
Color Choices
While basic denim shirts primarily come in solid black, shades of gray, and blue, lighter tones pair well with darker pants and vice versa. Mixing and matching colors is key to achieving a balanced look.
Outfit Suggestions with Denim Shirts
Smart Casual
Denim shirts can elevate your smart casual game. Pair one with a suit for an interesting juxtaposition, ensuring the shirt contrasts well with the suit color - opt for a light-colored shirt for a classic touch. For a lighter take, wear a denim shirt under a blazer with chinos or jeans and finish with sneakers or suede shoes.
Casual
True to their roots, denim shirts excel in casual outfits. Combine a denim shirt with jeans for a strong workwear vibe, focusing on contrasting tones. They also serve as a lightweight shirt jacket over a tee. Don't hesitate to wear them with chinos, ensuring color contrast remains a priority.
For footwear, rugged boots, sleek minimal sneakers, or polished leather derby shoes all work well.
Recommended Denim Shirt Brands
When it comes to quality denim, consider traditional brands like Levi’s, Lee, and Wrangler. Uniqlo offers great options at reasonable prices, while modern minimalist brands like A.P.C., Asket, Buck Mason, Norse Projects, and Luca Faloni provide stylish, contemporary designs.
Denim shirts are versatile pieces that can seamlessly transition from casual to smart casual, making them an unsung hero in every wardrobe.
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