The shirt is a staple of the masculine wardrobe. Versatile, it adapts to all occasions, from the office to more casual outings. Here are our tips on how to wear a shirt well and elevate your outfits.
How to choose the right shirt?
To wear a shirt well, several elements must be considered. Fit is paramount: a well-cut shirt should neither be too loose nor too tight, and shoulder seams should sit right at the edge of the shoulder. Next, pay attention to the fabric. For a casual look, Oxford, linen or flannel are seasonal staples, while poplin, twill or Oxford are perfectly suited for formal wear. If you want to know which fabrics to favour depending on the season, check out this article.
The choice of collar also plays an essential role: French, semi-cutaway or cutaway collars bring a formal touch, while mandarin collars, band collars or button-down collars offer a more relaxed look. Finally, remember to adjust sleeve length if they are too long. For more tips, discover our guide on how to shorten shirt sleeves.
Pairing your shirt with trousers
Pairing a shirt with trousers depends on the style you want to achieve. Here are a few ideas to inspire you. For a successful casual look, pair an Oxford shirt with raw denim jeans and white trainers. If you prefer a smart yet relaxed style, chinos are an excellent alternative. Add a pair of leather shoes for a chic, balanced finish. Finally, in a formal setting, opt for a poplin or twill shirt, paired with tailored trousers. For more inspiration, check out our guide on outfits to wear with beige trousers.
Wearing a shirt in a professional setting
A well-chosen shirt can truly transform your outfit. With a suit, a plain or patterned white or blue poplin shirt tucked into trousers is ideal for a formal look. Complete your outfit with a jacket and tie for an extra touch of elegance. In winter, wear your shirt under a wool jumper or a cardigan for a look that is both smart and comfortable. Finally, for a smart-casual look, a button-down shirt paired with chinos and leather shoes perfectly suits a more flexible dress code. For more advice, check out our guide on which shirt to wear for which occasion.
Adopting a relaxed look with a shirt
For a relaxed style, favour simple and modern combinations. Opt for a shirt in more casual fabrics with texture, such as denim, chambray, flannel, linen or Oxford paired with jeans—a stylish combination that brings a contemporary edge to your outfit, especially with trainers. For a casual feel, leave your shirt unbuttoned over a white T-shirt, a true wardrobe essential. In summer, go for a lightweight shirt paired with shorts or linen trousers. Looking for more summer inspiration? Discover our tips on wearing a white shirt in summer.
Different shirt styles
There is a wide variety of shirt styles to suit every occasion. The classic white shirt remains a timeless essential, easy to wear and pair. To learn more, discover our guide to the white shirt. The casual shirt, in Oxford or chambray, is the ideal choice for a laid-back look, while patterned shirts add a touch of personality to your outfits. Finally, the mandarin collar or band collar shirt, modern and stylish, stands out with its minimalist and refined appeal.
Care and maintenance of your shirt
Taking care of your shirts ensures their longevity and radiance. Machine wash at 30 degrees with a gentle spin cycle to protect fabrics. For stubborn stains, a 40-degree cycle can be considered. Dry them on hangers with the collar buttoned to prevent creasing and ease ironing. For your formal shirts, do not forget to remove collar stays before washing.