With Spring/Summer quietly creeping upon us, I have devised a list of the five essential shirts all us men need in our wardrobe over the coming months.
Too often us men like to stick to what we know works for us. If we know we look good in a striped blue shirt then chances are we have five variations of that very type of shirt hanging in our wardrobe. Not only does this mean your style becomes tiresome, it also means that you’re restricted and unprepared – and failing to prepare means preparing to fail.
1. CRISP WHITE OXFORD SHIRT
White is very much the keyword here. There’s nothing worse than seeing someone’s outfit ruined by an over-washed, deodorant stained, what was once white shirt.
Probably the most versatile and timeless type of shirt, it can be easily worn with a suit or worn unbuttoned with a T-shirt underneath and a pair of chinos or shorts (navy are my preferred choice) in the summer for a smart yet relaxed look.
2. THE CHECK SHIRT
Checked shirts have never really gone out of fashion and rightly so. With so many variations of colours, materials and print they never fail to make you stand out from the crowd.
A bright coloured checked shirt teams perfectly with a plain, dark coloured knitted jumper. In contrast a dark coloured checked shirt works well with a knitted tied to help counteract the bold pattern and still give you that subtle on-trend edge.
3. SMART COTTON SHIRT
Smart cotton shirts are essential for any modern man. Perfect for the Spring as well as the transition in to Summer, they give your overall outfit a hint of sartorial elegance.
Pastel coloured shirts are perfect for teaming with a well tailored blazer and pair of trousers for work, or a pair of shorts for those summer garden parties that we’re all eagerly awaiting.
4. GRANDDAD COLLAR SHIRT
Granddad shirts are something I’ve only recently taken a liking to and it was about time too. They add a fresh twist on the classic shirt. Introduced by the East to the West, they are the informal version of your usual shirt.
They can be worn with a tailored suit jacket on top however I think they look best worn on their own with a pair of jeans or chinos for a more relaxed look.
5. PLAIN BLUE SHIRT
It’s predicted that blue is THE colour for Spring/Summer 2015 and after seeing the attendees of the recent fashion weeks it’s already popping up all over the shop. With so many shade variations there’s bound to be at least two shades to suit you.
Being as safe and versatile as a white shirt, they add that little something extra to your outfit. If you’re looking to get more bang for your buck I’d suggest a lighter shade as not only will it go with the majority of your suits, it will also allow you to team it with a pair of dark jeans or chinos for that all important relaxed look.
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