I used to buy shirts from regular stores and thought I was getting a good deal. But when I started learning more about shirts, I realized it’s not that simple. There are a lot of details to pay attention to if you want your shirt to fit well and look good on you.
Things like sleeve length, collar style, size, and the type of shirt all matter depending on where you’re going to wear it and what you’re going to pair it with. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Why You Can't Find the Right Shirt in Regular Stores
Last time, I mentioned that you can’t find well-fitting shirts in regular stores. Why? It’s all about the collars! The collar is super important, and if you buy a shirt with the wrong collar, you’re wasting your money. Usually, shirts in regular stores have short collars. So if you want to wear them with a jacket, it won’t look good because there will be too much space between the jacket lapel and the shirt collar.
Like this – not good:
Like this – good:
How to Choose the Right Size Shirt
Choosing the right size shirt isn’t easy, but there are some basic rules. If you button up all the buttons and they look stretched and tight, the shirt is too small for you, and it’ll probably feel tight on your shoulders and upper back. Don’t buy that shirt. If you find a shirt that’s comfortable to wear but the sleeves are hidden and there’s too much space between the collar and your neck, the shirt is too big. Don’t get that one either because it’ll mess up your look and won’t flatter your figure. Also, when I buy a shirt, I always take it to a tailor to have it taken in a bit at the back, so it can accentuate the lines of my back, creating balance and definition.
My Favorite Collar Styles
Some people know about different collar styles, while others don’t. There are lots of collar styles for shirts. One of my favorites is the Cutaway collar, also known as the Italian collar. I’ve read different names for the same collar online, and it can get confusing. The main ones I’d highlight are the Button-Down, Spread, and Cutaway collars.
Shirts I'd Buy First
In my wardrobe, I have mostly white shirts with blue stripes, followed by denim shirts. Not the fancy designer ones, just classic shirts with cutaway collars and no extra pockets or details. These shirts aren’t too formal, so they’re easy to pair with everyday outfits. I also have some checkered ones. They’re similar to striped shirts.
Must-Have Shirts in Your Wardrobe
As I mentioned earlier, if I were to buy my first five shirts now, I’d get two white shirts with blue stripes, a denim shirt, and for more formal events, I’d get one blue shirt and one white shirt. You can wear them every day, but I like to mix up my outfits and not make everything too formal. If I’m wearing a white shirt instead of denim and a white shirt with blue stripes.
Monograms on Shirts. What Are They?
If you see letters embroidered on a shirt, it was probably custom-made for someone who chose everything, like collar type, sleeve, cuff, and more. Usually, initials are embroidered on the front below the chest or on the sleeve. Some people choose to have them on the collar or shoulder, but the classic spot is below the chest on the left side.
What to Wear With Shirts
There are lots of options here. But the main thing I’ve noticed is, don’t wear white or blue shirts with jeans or chinos. These shirts are better with trousers. With jeans, you can wear striped shirts, but don’t wear sneakers with them. Wear loafers and maybe a zip-up sweater instead. That’ll complete the look. If you want to wear sneakers, switch the shirt to a long-sleeve polo, and it’ll look much better!
I love seeing gentlemen wearing the right shirts in the city. And if they have monograms – even better!
Fact in the Spotlight
The words “swiss made” on a watch aren’t just nice words. For a watch to have the label “Made in Switzerland,” the mechanism must be Swiss, half of its parts must also be made in Switzerland, and the assembly must be done there too.”
Quote of the Week
We become what we think about.
Earl Nightingale
That’s all for today. See you on Saturday next week!
Yours sincerely, Anton Masko
