Is your closet basically 50 shades of blue? It’s time to break the cycle. Shirts shouldn’t be an afterthought -they’re the front line of your look. They are the anchor of every sharp, layered outfit and the first thing everyone notices. A well-chosen shirt keeps you looking crisp, feeling confident, and owning every room you enter. In the world of men’s fashion, shirts are the underrated MVPs. Let’s give them the spotlight they deserve.
But picking the right shirt isn’t just about brands or colours. It’s about details, fabrics, pockets, and a lot more. Ready to sharpen up your fashion game? Here are the ultimate tips for buying the perfect shirt for men.
1. Fit First
Before you start deciding on the pattern, fabric, or colours, know the size and fit of your ideal shirt for men. You can take help from your local tailor or use a measuring tape to find your exact numbers. Each brand offers different sizes and fits. Here are some tips to help you find the perfectly stylish shirt for men:
- A perfectly fit shirt should hug your shoulders at the right spot, not too loose or too tight.
- Extend your arms to check the sleeve length. Similarly, tuck the shirt into your pants and raise your arms high; if it tucks out easily, it might be too short. The right shirt length should end at the middle of your pants’ zipper.
- There are a variety of fits, such as relaxed, boxy, slim, and regular. Refer to the brand or product’s size guide to understand what an ideal fit should feel like.
2. Know Your Collar Game
Collars not only frame your neck but also offer a sharp silhouette overall. They are also a defining feature between formal, informal, and smart-casual style. Understanding the differences between different collars will take you a step further in mastering the art of shopping:
- Buttoned-down collar: It refers to the collar that features two buttons on both collar points to fasten it to the shirt. Ideal for a sleek and formal look.
- Spread Collar: Customisable and versatile spread collar suits both formal and informal styles. You can unbutton the top two buttons for a laid-back style.
- Mandarin Collar: For minimalist and modern flair, Mandarin and mock collars are your best friends. They let the shirt and its design take the spotlight while adding to its structure.
Pro Tip: Droopy collars for formal shirts are a no-no! Iron them before going out.
3. Be Smart When Choosing Fabrics
The choice of fabrics can be based on personality, weather, or occasion. For instance, cotton is an ideal option for summer and a professional look. Linen is a one-stop solution for a vacation shirt for men. Easy, breathable, and vibrant, it has it all. If you prefer flexibility and easy movement, synthetic fabrics and blends such as nylon, polyester, and viscose are a class apart. They are easy to clean and durable, making them a favourite of wanderlust people.
4. Colour and Pattern Add Character
The pattern or colour you choose reflects your personality and mood. For instance, solid white shirts are classic, subtle, and boring on most occasions. However, an asymmetrical check shirt for men exudes style and a man who likes to take risks. Think horses for courses:
- Concert: Loud graphics, bright colours, and relaxed fits.
- Office: Solid or small checked shirt, neutral shades like powder blue, white, baby pink, and off-white.
- Casual Day: Boxy half-sleeve shirt with coastal prints.
5. Underrated But Important Buttons
Buttons are a small addition to shirts, mostly functional. However, with modern designs, buttons have chosen a path of accessories. They can be a quirky addition to a formal shirt with embellished metals. Cheap plastic buttons can ruin a designer shirt. Opt for metal. Wooden or pearl buttons for a statement look. Additionally, it is important to look for button materials to understand the quality of the shirt for men.
6. Don’t Forget About The Hemlines
Hemlines are the end part of your shirt where the cloth is stitched together. From curved and straight to ribbed, there are a variety of hemlines for a shirt for men. While straight hems are meant to be tucked in, curved hems have higher ends and are ideal for leaving untucked in dress shirts. Plus, curved hems can help elongate your frame, and straight hems offer a well-rounded look for leaner and taller people.
Now on to sleeve hems or cuffs:
- Button Cuff (Standard)
A simple, sharp, and versatile option. Secured with one or two buttons, this everyday cuff works across casual and formal shirts alike.
- French Cuff:
The boss-level cuff. Double-folded and fastened with cufflinks, it’s built for tuxedos, weddings, and days when your suit does the talking.
- Convertible Cuff
The best of both worlds. Button it for work, cufflink it for weddings, this cuff adjusts to the occasion with ease.
7. Build Your Wardrobe
Don’t flush your budget on one premium shirt; try distributing it evenly based on your needs. If you commute to your office daily, invest in medium-priced solid or semi-formal shirts. They are now perfect for your office and smart casual date wear. On top of that, solid shirts are easy to layer. However, try to bring in a couple of party or premium shirts for special occasions.
Pro Tip: You can style solid semi-formal shirts for breezy every day looks by styling an undershirt. Buying the basics will help you understand the fashion and build your wardrobe without putting stress on your wallet.
Wrapping Up
Upgrading your shirt game isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about nailing the basics: fit, fabric, and function. When you get those right, every shirt becomes a deliberate move in your personal style playbook. The right shirt for men enhances their presence, sharpens their look, and speaks volumes before they say a word.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at Blufashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2018. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
