THE SHIRT: AN ESSENTIAL PART OF THE MALE WARDROBE

It is the very basis of the male wardrobe. It is one of the fundamentals to have and that is why it must be well chosen. Cut and material are the essential elements to take into account during the purchase.

Without going into all the details of a perfect shirt widely explained here, you will have to choose:

• A collar proportional to your face;

• Correct seams at the shoulders (which, again, must follow the natural break of yours);

• And above all a nice fall at the level of the back, once it is put on (avoid bloating with a balloon effect which gives the impression that you are hiding a parachute behind your back).

HOW TO WEAR A SHIRT WELL?

First, there are two main families: 

formal shirts and casual shirts.

The former are made to be worn with a suit. The fabrics mainly used are poplin, thread to thread or even twill. You also have to look at the shape of the collar: the stiffer and wider it is, the more difficult it will be to wear it casually.

These shirts are found more in a formal environment. When this is the case,  it is best to tuck them into the pants.

Conversely, casual shirts have a much more relaxed appearance because of their cut (often shorter and a little less fitted), but also of the materials used: oxford, chambray or even flannel.

It can be worn closed, tucked in or out of the pants, and even open on a T-shirt. In short, you are much more free to choose with a casual shirt. However, it will be inappropriate with a suit.

Last advice: prefer long-sleeved shirts to short-sleeved shirts , even if you want to roll up your sleeves if you are hot. They are much more modern and current.

WHICH BRANDS OF SHIRTS SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

I invite you to take a look at:

• Hast : very good value for money-style (especially for an entry-level brand), with a lot of choice of fabrics and cuts.

• Boggi : for less than 100 euros also, you will get a quality shirt in an Italian style with more flared collars.

• Suit Supply : their plus is to offer three different price ranges (the first two at less than 100 euros), always in an Italian style.

• Office Artist  : they offer rather formal all-purpose shirts - although they have just launched their first line of casual shirts - cut from fabrics that never disappoint.

• Abbie & Rose : also less than 100 euros, you have a large selection of very well cut casual shirts. Collars are more generous than most shirts of the kind that you will find on the market.

• Hartford : the prices are higher but so is the quality. It is a French brand that offers high-end materials, traditional finishes and original patterns, all in a relaxed style!

• Black Flag : beautiful shirts with tartan pattern cut in Japanese and Italian materials. Please note that the material may move a little after the first wash.