If you think that the only aspects you need to pay attention to when choosing a shirt are the fabric's colour and pattern, think again, as only a shirt with a perfect fit will emphasise your "good bits" whilst also hiding smaller problem areas. To keep you from worrying about this on your next shopping trip, we are telling you everything you need to know about shirt fits and cuts to ensure that your next shirt is a "perfect match".
The shirt can not only look back on a turbulent but above all a long history. Initially, a shirt was simply a plain garment that covered the upper body. Later on, a shirt, or undershirt, was only worn underneath other garments. Shirts as such did not become fashionable again until the 16th century. A button through front made it easy to put the garment on or take it off.
This was the start of the shirt as we know it, a garment that has faithfully stayed with us throughout all fashion eras.
How do you recognise a high-quality men's shirt?
To make sure that you don't suffer disappointment only a few weeks after you've bought a new shirt, you should pay attention to these important fit and cut quality indicators before you make your purchasing decision:
Take a closer look at the shirt fabric. A high-quality men's shirt contains at least 90% cotton.
It the cotton content is lower, the shirt will not only soon look third-rate; the fabric will also lose its breathability.
Even a layman can tell straight away whether the stitches are small and close together or widely spaced. If the latter is the case, it is an indication that the shirt was produced cheaply.
The back of the shirt always has to be longer than the front. Why? To ensure that the shirt does not slip out of our trousers at the back when bending down.
The yoke on cheaply produced shirts is usually not split. However, this horizontal tailoring detail ensures a good fit across the chest.
If you intend to wear the shirt with cuff links, take them with you when you go shirt-shopping, together with your favourite sports jacket . That way, you can check straight away whether the sleeve length is right for you.
What are the different fits, and which one is right for you?
What are the different fits, and which one is right for you?
There is a wide range of shirt fits and cuts that take the various body types into account. We introduce you to the four most common forms here, and explain who they are suitable for.
Regular fit – the comfortable shirt for everyone
Regular fit means that the shirt offers plenty of room to move comfortably. The loose cut makes this shirt style also suitable for more heavyset men and always flatters the figure.
Super slim fit – the shirt for exercise fans and athletes
Men who exercise regularly can also emphasise their well-toned muscles at work; there is a particular fit designed especially for athletic bodies. These designs are cut wider around the shoulders, arms and chest to ensure that those muscles have plenty of room to move. The cut tapers towards the waist.
Slim fit – the tailored shirt
Slim fit shirts are the super slim fit shirt's closest relative. Again, the focus is on a tailored waist, although you don't necessarily have need a wide chest. In short: The shirt for all men with a slender body.
Modern fit – the all-rounder
The modern fit also focuses on creating a slim silhouette, but successfully hides smaller problem areas as it is not as close-fitting as its tailored predecessors.
Small details with big impact
May you haven't noticed this before, but shirts also come in different weaves.
To make sure you know what the various descriptions mean on your next shopping trips, we explain the most common weaves to you here in the form of a quick overview.
Poplin
Poplin is the weave that is used most commonly for shirts. Thanks to the fine texture, the fabric is particularly breathable, although lighter colours may be slightly see-through.
Oxford
Small diamonds and basket weave: Oxford-style fabric is not only durable but is also particularly comfortable to wear.
Herringbone
The herringbone pattern is one of the best-known weaving patterns. The alternating "herringbones" add a sophisticated look to the fabric. This fabric is generally very opaque.
Twill
Twill fabric is characterised by a weave that runs at an angle and is particularly dense. You are likely to be most familiar with it in the form of denim fabric, although it can also add a very special touch to shirts.
Which shirt for which occasion?
Which patterns and colours work at work?
Is a short-sleeved shirt a suitable office choice? We provide you with an overview of which shirts are suitable for work, and which shirts should be a leisure time choice only. Not only the cut and fit are important; the occasion also plays a major role.
Business
You want to make a good (first) impression at work? Then rely on a plain white or blueshirt. Colours like pink and light green are a rather daring choice and should match the occasion and above all your complexion. Smaller patterns such as checks or stripes are super eye-catchers and can add a loose touch to your outfit.
One of the most important rules is that shirts which you intend to wear in the office should be long-sleeved. If the summer heat is too much for you, you can still casually roll up your sleeves.
In a non-formal working environment, plain jeans or chinos go with almost all shirts. If you are looking for a smarter outfit, we recommend a casual sports jacket or a suit.
Casual
In your leisure time, it's all a matter of personal taste. Whether large-scale patterns or bright colours: play with this summer's trends and make your shirt your outfit's eye-catcher.
Be careful, though! Don't overdo it by combining a patterned shirt with strikingtrousers. For a successful outfit, you should opt for plain trousers to properly emphasise your shirt.
Unlike at the office, a leisure shirt can also be worn casually untucked. Roll up the sleeves and don a pair of smart sunglasses, and you are perfectly equipped for any summer event.
Conclusion
We are certain that you are bound to find your new favourite shirt with these tips on shirt fits and cuts! You'll not only be perfectly dressed for business meetings but also for the after-work party.