A Complete Guide To Men Shirts | Men’s Shirts UK
When it comes to men’s fashion, one of the most timeless and versatile wardrobe staples is the men’s shirt. Whether you’re dressing up for a business meeting, attending a wedding, heading out for a casual day, or styling a trendy look, the right shirt can instantly elevate your appearance. In the UK, men’s shirts have evolved from being just work attire to becoming a statement of personality and lifestyle.
This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about men’s shirts—from casual shirts to formal shirts, from slim fit to classic fit, and even fashion details like contrast collars and cuffs. By the end of this blog, you’ll be able to choose the perfect shirt for every occasion.
A Men’s Shirt For Every Occasion
One of the most important benefits of men’s shirts is their versatility. Unlike other clothing items that serve specific purposes, shirts adapt easily to different events and occasions. Let’s break down how you can style men’s casual shirts, collar shirts, and formal shirts depending on the event.
1. Everyday Casual Wear
For weekends, hangouts, or a simple stroll in the park, men’s casual shirts are the go-to option. They are usually made from lighter fabrics such as cotton or linen, allowing comfort and breathability. Casual shirts may come in checkered patterns, stripes, or even bold prints. Pair them with jeans or chinos, and you have the perfect laid-back look.
2. Business Meetings & Office Wear
For office settings, collar shirts or formal shirts are the most appropriate. Usually crafted from high-quality cotton with stiff collars, these shirts project confidence and professionalism. White, light blue, and pastel shades are classic choices for corporate settings, often paired with suits or blazers.
3. Weddings & Special Events
Weddings, receptions, and formal parties require men to dress sharp. Here, a formal shirt in silk blends, satin, or premium cotton works perfectly. Often paired with ties, cufflinks, or even a waistcoat, these shirts help create a sophisticated and stylish look.
4. Evening & Semi-Formal Gatherings
For dinners or semi-formal gatherings, a patterned or darker-toned shirt can strike the right balance between elegance and relaxed style. You can wear these tucked in with formal trousers or keep them untucked for a modern, chic vibe.
Slim Fit VS Classic Fit
When buying a shirt, one of the most important choices is deciding between slim fit and classic fit. The cut of the shirt can dramatically change how it looks on you, so let’s explore both styles.
Slim Fit Shirts
Slim fit shirts are designed to hug the body closely, creating a sharp and modern silhouette. Popular among younger men and fashion-forward individuals, these shirts work best for slim to athletic builds. They’re often seen in men’s casual shirts and formal office wear when paired with slim trousers.
Advantages of Slim Fit Shirts:
- Stylish and trendy look
- Works well under fitted suits
- Great for slimmer body shapes
- Classic Fit Shirts
Classic fit shirts, also known as regular fit, are roomier and provide more comfort. They are designed to allow movement and airflow, making them the ideal choice for men who prefer traditional styles or have broader body types.
Advantages of Classic Fit Shirts:
- Comfortable for long hours
- Suitable for all body types
- A timeless choice for office wear
- Contrast Collars and Cuffs
In the world of men’s fashion, details matter—and that’s where contrast collars and cuffs come in. This style became popular in the UK during the 1980s and still remains a favourite among stylish professionals.
A contrast collar shirt typically has a white collar with a shirt body in a different colour (often blue or pink). The cuffs may also contrast in white or another shade, creating a distinctive and polished look.
Why Choose Contrast Collars and Cuffs?
- They add sophistication and a touch of flair
- Perfect for business and formal settings
- Create a bold, standout style
Pairing a contrast collar shirt with a tie or cufflinks enhances the professional appeal, making it a perfect choice for boardrooms, client meetings, and upscale events.
Formal Shirts
When it comes to dressing sharp, formal shirts are a man’s best friend. Unlike casual shirts, formal shirts have structured collars, minimal patterns, and are often designed in plain colours. They are versatile enough to pair with suits, tuxedos, or business attire.
Key Features of Formal Shirts
Fabric: High-quality cotton, poplin, or satin
Collars: Stiff, spread, or pointed
Colours: White, light blue, pastel shades, or dark solids
Cuffs: French cuffs or button cuffs
Fit: Available in slim, tailored, or classic fit
Styling Formal Shirts
With a Suit: A white or pale blue shirt is the ultimate classic, always working well with navy, black, or grey suits.
For Weddings: Satin or silk-blend shirts in cream, ivory, or pastel tones add luxury.
For Business: Stick to crisp cotton shirts with minimal designs.
Formal shirts also serve as the foundation for accessorising with ties, bow ties, or cufflinks.
Fashion is all about expression, and with choices like contrast collars and cuffs, you can stand out while still keeping it elegant. A well-chosen men’s shirt is not just clothing—it’s confidence stitched into fabric.
FAQs
1. What is a man’s shirt called?
A man’s shirt is commonly referred to as a dress shirt or formal shirt when used for business or events. For everyday wear, it’s simply called a casual shirt.
2. What men’s shirts are in style?
Currently, slim fit shirts, Oxford shirts, and contrast collar shirts are in style in the UK. Men’s casual shirts with checkered or floral prints are also trending.
3. What type of shirts are trending?
Trending shirts in 2025 include collar shirts with bold prints, linen summer shirts, oversized casual shirts, and classic white formal shirts.