4 things to consider when buying a shirt
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Shirts are more than just the workhorse of your wardrobe, they’re an item of clothing that enables you to express your personality and professionalism. There are a few key considerations to bear in mind when buying a new shirt to ensure it fits well, looks great and is creating the right impression every time.
- Decide on the right fabric
You might think that the material to make your new shirt is hardly worth consideration, but the right fabric can make all the difference to how you feel wearing the shirt, and what can be worn with it. For summer and warmer climates, a light and breathable shirt such as the poplin is going to be better for keeping cool than a heavier twill.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester can be uncomfortable to wear and can cheapen the effect of an expensive suit. It is worth trying out different fabric types and identifying what works well with the rest of your wardrobe.
- Know your body type
You already know your measurements, but are you aware of your body type? We all come in different shapes and sizes, so standard fit isn’t going to work for everyone. Your goal is to create a streamlined look without too much excess material, or your shirt being so tight it’s straining at the seams.
Aim for a shoulder seam that hugs your shoulders, sleeves that aren’t too long or short but reaches your wrist comfortably, and that the shirt buttons don’t look or feel like they’re about to pop at any second.
- Pay attention to the shirt collar
There are many different types of collar available, and you have the ability to select your preference on any of our shirts because we know how important it is to get right. You don’t want a collar that’s so tight it cuts off your air supply, or so big that it feels loose. Being able to slip one finger under the collar is what you’re looking for in terms of a good fit.
When it comes to collar style, consider the suits your shirt will be worn with. How conservative or personality-driven you want your collar to be will be decided by where it’ll be worn and the impression you’re trying to create.
- Choose your colour carefully
Where you can really let your personality shine through is in the colour and design of your new shirt. With such a wide range of coloured fabric now available for shirts these days, including the increasingly popular pink and lilac, you can be fun, creative and uniquely individual in an office of basic white and blue.
Check designs are great for adding a touch of colour without making too bold a statement and are versatile enough to be worn with a suit, or with slacks for that smart casual look. Generally speaking, smaller checks work better in a professional environment than larger more casual designs, so do consider the impression you’re wanting to make when coming to a decision.