Our best Christmas gift guide

If you truly want to surprise someone, try bolder patterns or complementary shades. Does he often wear grey? Opt for a handsome burgundy or a brighter red. It may seem like a bold choice, but when well thought through, it will be all the more appreciated. Not sure about his taste? Then choose the colour that appeals to most: blue. From sky blue to navy, blue has the advantage of suiting every complexion and being very easy to pair. When it comes to patterns, it is best to play it safe: a plain shirt or subtle stripes remain the most reliable choice. A timeless classic is always a safe bet.

Beyond colour, the choice of fabric determines how the shirt is worn. A two-ply poplin is suited to formal wear, at work or for special occasions. Conversely, a corduroy shirt offers a more relaxed feel.

The choice of fabric also depends on the season: flannel is indeed particularly recommended for winter, with its soft, comforting texture, whilst linen is ideal for summer. Once again, when in doubt, it is best to turn to classics that form the foundation of an outfit. A denim shirt or a chambray for connoisseurs is always a great choice, as is Oxford (in formal or casual versions), which offers true seasonless appeal.

The collar is the essential part of a shirt, as a shirt without a collar is simply not a shirt. Much like fabrics, certain collars are strictly reserved for formal occasions. Such is the case with the tab collar, a very elegant classic that showcases the tie beautifully thanks to a subtle tab across the collar. Wearing a suit is particularly recommended here. The button-down collar, found on our casual shirts (with a box pleat), is much less formal, embodying an effortless, relaxed chic.

Some collars are more versatile and depend mostly on how they are styled. We developed our signature collar (semi-cutaway) so it can be worn just as well on its own, with a tie or a bow tie. In a different style, yet just as easy to match, the latest collar in our collection offers understated elegance thanks to hidden buttons under the lapel: the collar requires no interlining yet maintains its shape impeccably. Paired with casual fabrics, this new collection is already an essential.

Last but not least, choosing the size. Naturally, getting the size wrong is completely forgivable—far more so than misjudging the shirt's style. If you are unsure of his size, several options are available. The first (and riskier) method is to judge by eye. This can work for casual shirts, whose relaxed fit requires less precision than formal ones. You can also discreetly check the label on other garments that fit him well. The ideal approach remains measuring other shirts precisely and comparing them with our size guides.