In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about men's shirts – from the different types and styles available to the materials used, and the art of finding the ideal fit. We'll also delve into the history of this iconic garment, exploring how it has evolved over time to become a versatile and indispensable item in a man's closet.
It's time to check the 10 types of shirts that every man should consider adding to his wardrobe.
1. Classic White Shirt
First and foremost is our classic white shirt. It is a timeless piece of clothing that can be worn for any formal or semi-formal occasion. It pairs well with suits, blazers, or even worn alone with khaki trousers for a sophisticated look.
Where to wear a classic white shirt: Anywhere, but best for formal settings. Heading to the interview? Make the best first impression with this classy shirt.
2. Oxford Button-Down Shirt
The Oxford button-down shirt is a versatile option that can be dressed up or down. It's perfect for both casual and business-casual outfits and can be worn with jeans or chinos.
A small, interesting history of this piece of style: This oxford button-down shirt originated from the Oxford University, is known for the presence of button-down collar points. This style was originally created to keep the collar in place while playing sports such as polo or tennis, to prevent the collar from flapping around during movement.
Where to wear an oxford button-down shirt: Pair with a blazer and leather shoes for a business meeting, roll up the sleeves and leave it untucked for a laid-back look. Pair it with jeans and complete the outfit with sneakers or loafers for a comfortable and stylish ensemble.
3. Denim Shirt
A denim shirt is a timeless classic that adds a rugged and masculine touch to any outfit. It can be worn as a casual standalone piece or layered with a jacket for a stylish look.
A denim shirt is made of a sturdy cotton material typically woven in a twill pattern. They are available in different shades of blue, ranging from light wash to dark indigo, and sometimes in black or grey.
Where to wear a denim shirt: These can be worn on different occasions, depending on how they are styled. They can be paired with jeans for a denim-on-denim look or with other types of pants or shorts. Overall, denim shirts have been a popular choice for many people over the years.
4. Linen Shirt
Linen shirts are a saviour during hot summer days. The breathable and lightweight fabric keeps you cool and comfortable while adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit. It's worth noting that linen shirts tend to wrinkle easily, which is a characteristic of the fabric. Some people appreciate the natural wrinkled look, while others prefer a more crisp appearance. If you opt for a linen shirt, embrace the fabric's unique texture and consider it as a part of its charm.
Where to wear a linen shirt: Wearing a linen shirt would be appropriate to casual outings, beach dates, business outings, and for travelling to humid places.
5. Printed Shirt
If you want to make a fashion statement, a printed shirt is the way to go. It can be floral, geometric, or abstract, adding personality and flair to your ensemble. Since the printed shirt will be the focal point of your outfit, balance it with neutral and solid-coloured items. Pair it with classic denim jeans, chinos, or solid-coloured shorts to create a visually appealing contrast. Feel free to experiment and find your unique style while keeping the overall balance in mind.
Where to wear a printed shirt: Note that it's perfect for casual outings, summer events, Informal work settings, or any for evening occasions.
6. Short-Sleeve Shirt
Perfect for the warmer months, a short-sleeve shirt offers a relaxed and casual vibe. It pairs well with shorts or chinos for a laid-back yet put-together look.
Where to wear a short-sleeve shirt: Casual workplace, outdoor activities, summer events, barbecues, music festivals, or outdoor parties, short-sleeve shirts are a popular choice.
7. Mandarin collar shirt
Mandarin collar shirts have their own clean and minimalist look. Its unique feature is the invisible collar band and is designed to be buttoned up to the top. However, some modern variations may include a button or snap closure at the collar.
Mandarin shirts are available in various fabrics, including cotton, linen, and synthetic blends. You can pair this with trousers or jeans depending on the occasion and your personal style. Overall, this Chinese mandarin collar shirt offers a distinctive alternative to traditional collared shirts and has gained popularity worldwide due to their unique and stylish appearance.
Where to wear a mandarin shirt: You can opt to wear this shirt to weddings, casual dinners, celebrations or a cultural festival, or a fashion event by pairing it with trousers for a more eclectic ensemble.
8. Corduroy shirts
Corduroy is commonly associated with a relaxed style, but it is becoming increasingly sophisticated due to modern variations of the fabric.
When to wear a corduroy shirt: No restriction here, cords are best to wear anywhere and everywhere according to its styling. The ideal season to don this clothing is during the autumn/winter season, owing to its substantial thickness. However, if the climate allows, you are welcome to embrace corduroy throughout the year.
9. Plaid Flannel Shirt
Ideal for the colder months, a plaid flannel shirt adds a touch of ruggedness to your style. It can be layered over a plain t-shirt or worn as an outer layer for a casual and comfortable look.
How and where to wear a plaid flannel shirt: Wear it to a casual workplace, by pairing with tailored pants or dark jeans. Wear it to colder places by styling with boots, scarves, and other cold-weather accessories to complete the look.
10. Striped pattern shirt
A Striped shirt is a type of clothing that features horizontal or vertical stripes on the fabric. This shirt has been a significant fashion staple for many years and continues to be popular even today. It adds a touch of sophistication or playfulness to any outfit, depending on how it is styled.
Where to wear a striped shirt: Pair it with jeans or shorts for a relaxed outing. For events that call for a blend of casual and formal attire, a striped shirt can strike the right balance when combined with chinos or dark-coloured trousers.
Conclusion:
Building a versatile wardrobe starts with investing in the right shirts. The different types of shirts mentioned above cover a range of styles and occasions, allowing you to effortlessly create various outfits. Remember, the key is to choose shirts that suit your personal style and body type, ensuring that you feel confident and comfortable in whatever you wear. So, go ahead, explore these different shirt styles from Indian Terrain, and elevate your fashion game to new heights!
