The shirt is a must-have in the men's wardrobe. Versatile, it adapts to all occasions, from professional settings to more casual outings. Here are our tips for wearing a shirt well and highlighting your outfits.
How to choose the right shirt?
There are several things to consider when choosing a shirt. Size is key: a well-cut shirt should be neither too loose nor too tight, and the shoulder seams should stop at the joint. Next, pay attention to the fabric. For a casual look, oxford, linen, or flannel are classics depending on the season, while poplin, twill, or oxford are perfect for a formal outfit. If you want to know which fabrics to choose depending on the season , check out this article .
The choice of collar also plays an essential role: French, semi-cutaway or Italian collars bring a formal touch, while mandarin collars, officer collars or button-down collars have a more casual look. Finally, remember to adjust the length of the sleeves if they are too long. For more tips, check out our guide to shortening shirt sleeves .
Pairing your shirt with pants
Pairing a shirt with pants depends on the style you want to adopt. Here are some ideas to inspire you. For a successful casual look, pair an oxford shirt with raw jeans and white sneakers. If you prefer an elegant but relaxed style, chinos are a great alternative. Add a pair of leather shoes for a chic and balanced look. Finally, in a formal context, opt for a poplin or twill shirt, to pair with pleated pants. For more inspiration, check out our guide on outfits to wear with beige pants .
Wearing a shirt in a professional context
A well-chosen shirt can truly transform your outfit. With a suit, a white or blue poplin shirt, plain or patterned, tucked into your 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 sweater or cardigan for a look that is both chic and comfortable. Finally, for a smart casual look, a button-down shirt paired with chinos and leather shoes is perfect for a more relaxed dress code. For more advice, check out our guide on which shirt to wear for which occasion .
Adopt a casual look with a shirt
For a casual look, opt for simple and modern combinations. Opt for a shirt with more casual fabrics with texture such as denim, chambray, flannel, linen or oxford with jeans, a trendy combination that brings a contemporary touch to your outfit, especially when paired with sneakers. For a casual effect, leave your shirt open over a white t-shirt, a wardrobe essential. In summer, opt for a light shirt paired with shorts or linen pants. Need more summer inspiration? Discover our tips for wearing a white shirt in summer .
The different styles of shirts
There are a wide variety of shirt styles to suit every occasion. The classic white shirt remains a timeless classic, easy to wear and match. To find out more, discover our white shirt guide . The casual shirt, in oxford or chambray, is the ideal choice for a relaxed look, while the patterned shirt allows you to add a touch of personality to your outfits. Finally, the mandarin collar or officer collar shirt, modern and trendy, stands out with its minimalist and refined look.
Care and maintenance of your shirt
Taking care of your shirts ensures their longevity and shine. Choose a 30-degree machine wash with a moderate spin cycle to preserve the fabrics. In case of stubborn stains, a 40-degree cycle can be considered. Dry them on a hanger, with the collar buttoned, to avoid creases and make ironing easier. For your formal shirts, don't forget to remove the collar stays before washing.