Men’s Dress Shirts: What Ways Can They Be Worn
Every man with a closet owns a hierarchy of preferred clothing that each fit a specific purpose for him. Properly picked men’s dress shirts are the most timeless of tools in his arsenal because of their range and versatility to rise him to any occasion. When adjusted and donned properly, men’s dress shirts are the Swiss army knife of any suitable closet and how you wear them means everything. As with all arsenals, it is important to understand what is at your disposal.
For the Formal Dress Shirt Wearer
The classical intent of men’s dress shirts was to carry a tie and jacket as an accessory. But unless you live in a suit professionally, it is best to experiment within the subtle layers of formality that quality dress shirts can offer. Formally, men’s dress shirts can be adjusted in the sleeves, at the collar and by buttoning up the chest to varying degrees. Combinations are key to conveying the right message. A loosened tie with sleeves rolled up and collar unbuttoned can mean anything from tired after work to intentionally shabby chic. As a rule, one should know their audience and allow the occasion to determine the wear of the shirt. For example, a single shirt may carry you sharply through a morning meeting at 9 AM, help to convey an empathetic ear to a best friend at lunch, and paint a perfect picture of confident and relaxed at an outing that evening. Use your judgment and adjust the formal wear of your dress shirt accordingly.
In more formal situations bear in mind the often-overlooked question of what a straight collar says about your look. Pro-tip; for the greatest range of formal use in men’s dress shirts, seek those with removable collar stays. Being able to firm your shirt collar for use with a sports jacket for a date or job interview can leave a subtle, yet very effective impression.
For the Casual Dress Shirt Wearer
Worn casually, men’s dress shirts take on a bit more range. Tucked or untucked? Sleeves rolled up or buttoned down? Collar buttoned up with a loose tie or go completely without? Every man should own a dress shirt equally capable of an outdoor worksite meeting, or a weekend tasting at the new micro-brewery downtown. From bold and patterned to plain white or blue-collar, versatile men’s dress shirts for the casual owner have the potential to become that go-to “favorite shirt” of your closet and eventually get stolen by your significant other.
As a rule, the casually worn men’s dress shirt should be active-oriented and passable for almost any occasion you find yourself outside of work. Traveling in the mountains, or taking evening photos on the beach, opt for breathable, stretchable and cool fabrics that can be worn loosely but still get you into a nice restaurant when you are hungry. It is worth noting a caution that all dress shirt owners have faced at one time or another: How far unbuttoned in the chest is too far for a casual wearer? Again, knowing your audience is key and try letting subtlety and discretion guide your buttons.
No matter which dress shirt you choose to hang in your closet next, bear in mind that every bit as important as color and style is how you wear it. Always have a proper shirt at the ready that is as flexible as your lifestyle and take the time to learn the many ways you can wear it. You may discover it is more rewarding to have a smart wardrobe than a large one.