The men's shirt is much more than a simple garment: it's a cornerstone of the male wardrobe, capable of defining a silhouette and adapting to a multitude of occasions. Yet, faced with the jungle of cuts, fabrics, and styles, making the right choice can quickly become a headache. Should you opt for a slim or straight cut? Which cotton should you choose to combine comfort and durability?
This guide is here to shed some light. We've broken down the essential criteria for a good shirt to bring you our advice and a selection of models that stand out for their quality and versatility.
Before diving into our selection, here are the key criteria to consider to find the perfect shirt for your body type and preferences.
The fabric is the starting point. It determines the comfort, drape, and longevity of your shirt. Cotton remains the undisputed benchmark. A quality cotton shirt is breathable, soft against the skin, and built to last. For more flexibility and optimal freedom of movement, some shirts incorporate a touch of elastane. This blend is particularly popular for slim-fit cuts, as it conforms to the body's shape without ever restricting movement.
The cut should not only flatter your body shape but also match the style you're aiming for. There are three main cuts:
The collar, cuffs, as well as the fabric and patterns, define a shirt's style. A long-sleeved shirt with a classic collar and buttoned cuffs is an indispensable basic, equally at home in smart-casual contexts as in more formal ones.
The men's overshirt, meanwhile, has established itself as the key piece for mid-season. Thicker than a classic shirt, it's worn like a light jacket and injects a dose of character into any outfit.
Here are three models that meet different needs and styles, all selected for the quality of their materials and their thoughtful design.
Why it stands out: The Woody shirt from the Swedish brand Rester?ds is the epitome of simplicity and elegance. Made from 100% premium cotton, it offers a fresh feel and an impeccable look from morning to night. Its classic design makes it an ultra-versatile piece.
Key features:
Who is it for? For the man seeking a reliable, elegant, and comfortable cornerstone piece. It's the ultimate safe bet for building a sustainable wardrobe, equally at home in the office for a casual look or for a weekend outing.
Why it stands out: This Tommy Hilfiger shirt combines a modern aesthetic with optimised comfort. Its slim-fit cut is designed to sculpt the silhouette, while its stretch cotton poplin (a blend of organic cotton and elastane) ensures absolute freedom of movement.
Key features:
Who is it for? For those who love tailored silhouettes and a polished style, without ever compromising on comfort. It's perfect for transitioning from a day at the office to an evening out with flawless elegance.
Why it stands out: The Hugh overshirt from Rester?ds is the ideal piece for mastering the art of layering. Made from 100% cotton, it's sturdy enough to be worn as a light jacket in spring or on summer evenings, while remaining flexible enough for optimal comfort.
Key features:
Who is it for? For the man who loves modular outfits and is looking for a piece that is as stylish as it is functional. It's the perfect choice for a relaxed yet considered look that adapts to changing temperatures.
Our selection highlights versatile pieces, but your style is unique. To discover a wider range of cuts and styles, feel free to explore our full collection. You'll also find selections designed for all body types, like our clothing for men over 50.
The most important thing: don't just rely on your usual size (S, M, L), as it often varies from one brand to another. Always consult the size guide on the product page. Take your measurements (chest circumference, waist circumference) with a tape measure and compare them to the manufacturer's specifications to make the right choice.
A casual shirt is recognisable by its softer fabric (flannel, chambray, oxford), its less rigid collar (e.g., a button-down collar), and its potential patterns. It's designed to be worn in a relaxed manner, including untucked. Conversely, a formal shirt is cut from cotton poplin or twill, with a stiff collar designed to accommodate a tie and single or French cuffs.
To preserve the quality of your cotton shirt, a machine wash at 30°C on a gentle cycle is recommended. Avoid bleach and the tumble dryer, which can shrink the cotton and damage the fibres. Opt for air-drying on a hanger to minimise creases and make ironing easier (with a medium-hot iron).