In the world of men's fashion, shirts are an essential component of a well-dressed individual's wardrobe. With numerous styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to navigate the various options. Let's explore the different types of men's custom shirts we offer at Tom James, their characteristics, and where or how to wear them.
Dress Shirts
Dress shirts are a staple in any man's wardrobe. They are designed to be worn with a suit and tie for business and formal occasions or a sport coat and pant for business casual events.
Suitable for: Business meetings, formal events like weddings or galas, and job interviews.
Key collar styles for custom dress shirts:
Traditional Point Collar: The collar points are closer together, making it a classic, conservative American style. This collar can make a face appear longer and is best paired with slimmer tie knots. It's a versatile option suitable for most business and formal settings, ensuring a polished and professional appearance.
Medium Spread Collar: A modern style with some distance between the collar points. It balances width and length, working well with many face shapes and occasions. This collar looks great with or without a tie and pairs best with a half or full Windsor knot. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for both office wear and formal events.
Wide Spread Collar: More formal than the medium spread collar, this British classic is ideal for dressier events and the office. It suits men with angular faces and slim necks due to its horizontal lines. This collar works best with larger tie knots, such as the full Windsor, and is perfect for making a sophisticated statement at formal gatherings.
Tuxedo Shirts
Tuxedo shirts are designed to be worn with a tuxedo. They feature either a wing collar, a point collar, or a spread collar, along with French cuffs and a stud front or fly front. These shirts are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a perfect fit and elegant appearance.
Tuxedo shirts are available in various styles to match different formal dress codes. The wing collar is ideal for the most formal occasions, while the point and spread collars offer a slightly more modern look. Pair them with a classic black tuxedo and cufflinks to complete the ensemble.
Suitable for: Black-tie events like weddings or galas, and formal occasions like award shows or charity events.
Button-Down Shirts
Button-down shirts feature small buttons to secure the collar points, making the collar low maintenance. They work well under a sweater or blazer without a tie and give off a sportier vibe. This timeless style looks great on plaid or gingham shirts and is perfect for a variety of casual or semi-formal settings.
Button-down shirts are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They pair well with chinos or jeans for a casual look or can be worn with dress pants for a more polished appearance. Their comfortable and practical design makes them a favorite for everyday wear.
Suitable for: Casual office settings, weekend outings, and informal social gatherings.
Popover Shirts
A popover shirt is a type of casual shirt that features a 4-button front that stops mid-chest and has a slightly relaxed fit since it has to slip on over your head. Made from soft, lightweight fabric, it strikes a balance between casual and dressy, exuding a sense of relaxed elegance.
The popover shirt is perfect for those who want a unique and stylish alternative to the traditional button-up shirt. Its relaxed fit and comfortable fabric makes it ideal for warmer weather, and it pairs well with both shorts and trousers. Whether you're attending a casual office setting or a social gathering, the popover shirt adds a touch of effortless style.
Suitable for: Weekend brunches, casual office settings, and social gatherings.
Safari Style Shirts
Safari shirts are characterized by a slightly relaxed fit, a button-front closure, chest pockets with flaps, and long sleeves. They are perfect for casual occasions or a more stylish look. Originally designed for functionality in hot climates, these shirts have become a fashion staple for their rugged and adventurous appeal.
Safari shirts can be paired with cargo pants or khakis for a classic safari look or dressed up with tailored trousers for a more refined outfit. Their practical design, complete with multiple pockets, makes them ideal for travel and outdoor activities.
Suitable for: Casual activities like shopping, social gatherings, or weekend getaways.
Linen Shirts
Linen shirts are made from natural linen fibers and are known for their breathability, lightness, and texture. They are perfect for warm weather and casual occasions. Linen shirts offer a laid-back yet sophisticated look, making them a summer wardrobe essential.
Linen shirts can be dressed up with slacks for a more refined appearance or worn with shorts for a relaxed, beach-ready look. They are ideal for staying cool and comfortable during outdoor events and can be layered with lightweight jackets for added style.
Suitable for: Summer events like beach weddings or picnics, casual social gatherings, and outdoor activities like pool parties or sailing.
Western Snap Shirts
Western snap shirts originated in the American West and are characterized by a Western yoke, snap-button front closure, and two chest pockets with snaps. They are perfect for casual occasions and outdoor activities, offering a rugged and distinctive style.
These shirts are often made from durable fabrics and feature unique patterns, such as plaid or denim. They can be worn unbuttoned over a T-shirt for a casual look or paired with jeans and boots for a more authentic Western style. Western snap shirts are ideal for those who appreciate a touch of Americana in their wardrobe.
Suitable for: Casual social gatherings, outdoor activities like horseback riding or rodeos, and weekend getaways.
Understanding the different types of men's shirts and where or how to wear them is essential for building a well-dressed wardrobe. By knowing the characteristics and suitable occasions for each type of shirt, along with guidance from your TJ clothier, you can make informed decisions about what to wear and how to style your shirts.
Ready to elevate your wardrobe with custom-made shirts? Schedule an appointment with our expert clothiers today and take advantage of our special offer: Buy 5 Custom Shirts and Get 1 Free. Discover the perfect shirt for every occasion with Tom James.