How to Choose a Men's Shirt (with Pictures)

2024 Author: Jason Gerald | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 10:50

Whether to wear yourself or to gift someone else, choosing a men's shirt can be more difficult than you think. Shirts play an important role in creating a first impression, especially during a job interview, and presenting yourself well in social gatherings. Taking the time to choose the right shirt, researching its quality, and making sure it's the right size can make a big impact.

Step

Part 1 of 3: Finding the Right Shirt to Wear

Step 1. Choose a shirt color

Certain colors are more suitable for different occasions, for example for work, leisure, etc. If you have an important position at work, you may choose a different shirt color at work than when participating in casual social activities.

Conservative colors are usually the choice for job interviews. White is the preferred color for work-related occasions. Off white, light gray, or light blue are safe choices. In a job interview, first impressions are very important. Therefore, you have to look professional without looking “dazzling”.
If you want to look more sparkly at parties or at a cafe get-together, opt for bright or unconventional colors. Bright green or orange are quite popular, as is pink. While you don't want to make the people around you look dull, you certainly want to stand out from the crowd.
Many people work in a casual business environment. This situation often requires them to be “dressed neatly” even if it is not very formal. Boxes are usually the best choice in this case; shirts that combine two or three colors that go well together (such as blue, green and gray).

Step 2. Choose a shirt motif

Solid colors are considered a common choice because they are easy to match, but there's nothing wrong with choosing a pattern of smooth lines or plaid. Different motives are better suited to certain situations.

Plain shirts are considered very practical because they can be worn with almost any type of tie, whether plain or patterned. If you occupy a high position at work, or are going on a date, plain colors like white, black, gray, or light blue are the best choices.
Patterned shirts are a bit more difficult to match with ties. Shirts like this are more suitable for office workers with a lower position, parties, or walks.
While large, brightly colored plaid shirts are more suitable for casual occasions, there are some exceptions. Soft striped shirts can be worn in more formal situations such as working in the office, or at a funeral/wedding.
If you plan to wear a patterned tie, choose a plain colored shirt. If the tie and shirt are both patterned, the whole outfit can seem tacky and distracting.

Step 3. Choose a collar for the shirt

There are two main types of collars, namely standard point collars and spread collars. Each collar creates a different effect, and is designed for different body shapes.

Standard taper collars are the most common type of collar (95%); the edge of the collar is pointing downwards at a 60-degree angle, and there is a slight gap where the two collars meet. Standard collars are designed to help create the impression of length on a face that tends to be round, by dragging people's gaze downwards.
The wide collar is a bit more modern and some people find it youthful and vibrant. The pointy part of the collar is "cut off", the collar ends pointing down at a 90-degree angle, and the gap where the two collars meet is wider. The wide collar keeps the gaze fixed on the face of the person wearing the shirt. People who have a longer face shape can wear this collar to create the effect of a rounder face.
If you want the top of the tie to be more exposed, a wide collar can be the right choice. The "hipster" style also makes use of a wide collar. However, most department stores only provide shirts with standard collars. If you want to buy a shirt with a wide collar, go to a store that specializes in men's clothing.

Step 4. Choose a shirt model

There are three main types of models for shirts, namely slim, athletic and wide (traditional). Each model is for people of different body shapes, sizes and tastes.

Put on a shirt and pin the hem into the pants. Use your fingers to pin the hem of the shirt. Feel how loose the shirt is when worn.
Slim style shirts or tailor-made to fit your body shape are a little tight on the chest and sides. There is almost no space on the back and sides of the body. This slim model is perfect for thin people, or those who want a modern look.
The athletic cut shirt is designed with a full chest (according to standard sizes), but streamlined at the waist. People who like to exercise tend to have a hard time finding shirts that can accommodate their more muscular chest and arms. An athletic cut shirt can meet those needs, but isn't as loose-fitting as a standard shirt.
Widefangled shirts have traditional sizes like standard shirts in general, which tend to hang down after you tuck the ends into your pants. This shirt feels loose and provides flexibility for the person wearing it to walk/move. Often, people who are big tend to prefer shirts with this model.

Step 5. Choose the weave of the fabric for the shirt

The weave of the fabric used for shirts is a combination of the thickness of the threads, and how tightly the threads are woven. There are four main types of weave, namely broadcloth, oxfort, pinpoint, and twill.

You may find it difficult to determine the type of weave if you are not accompanied by an expert. If you have a magnifying glass, you will be able to see the weave pattern. If not, ask an expert to tell you what type of weave the shirt is.
Broadcloth shirts are made of a material with tightly woven threads. This material has a smooth texture and has a sleek and neat appearance. Broadcloth shirts are usually worn at professional gatherings, and at high-level business establishments.
The oxford shirt has a “basket” weave (basketball). In this weaving the threads are woven vertically and horizontally, crossing each other. These shirts are usually cheaper because of the type of yarn used. The oxford shirt can be worn in a formal setting, or a semi-formal party/meeting.
Pinpoint shirts also use a "basket" weave, but are woven with a finer thread than that used for oxford shirts. These shirts are usually heavier than broadcloth shirts. This shirt can be worn either for formal situations, or for going to a bar/dinner.
Twill shirts have a "diagonal ribbing" pattern. This shirt is softer, but heavier to the touch. Twill shirts are less likely to wrinkle than other shirts, but are difficult to clean if they get stained. Twill shirts can be worn on both formal and informal gatherings.

Step 6. Choose the material for the shirt

Cotton or linen are the most common types of fabric used for shirts. Each ingredient is used for a different purpose and creates a very different feel when it hits the skin.

Linen is a very strong fiber, can absorb liquids at a rate of 20%, and allows air to flow easily. Linen is slicker than cotton, and will get softer after frequent washing. Because linen shirts retain heat, they are better suited for cold weather. This shirt is worn for more casual situations like parties, or going out for a walk.
Cotton is also a strong fiber, with an absorption rate of about 25%, and is very soft. Cotton is suitable for use at any time, and is more suitable for formal situations such as the workplace.
Check the label to see if the shirt is 100% cotton. Otherwise, it is usually blended with polyester yarn. Some people can have a very serious allergic reaction, and for more information see Section 2, Step 2, and the warnings at the end of the article.

Step 7. Measure and determine the neck circumference and arm length

If you're shopping at a retail store, most salespeople can help you measure your neck circumference and arm length using a tape measure. The chart below can serve as a guide for general neck measurements and approximate sleeve lengths, based on normal shirt sizes.

If you have your own soft fabric tape measure, use it to measure sleeve length and neck circumference before going out shirt shopping. It's best if you ask a friend or other family member for help.
To measure neck circumference, stand up straight. Ask a friend to wrap the tape measure around your neck at the level of your Adam's apple (make sure he doesn't strangle you). Friends, or yourself should be able to slip two fingers comfortably between the neck and the tape measure. Record the measurement in inches (2.54 cm) because most clothing stores use inches as the standard measurement formula.
To measure arm length, stand up straight. Place your hands on your hips so that your elbows/arms are bent at a 90-degree angle. Ask a friend to measure from the center of the back of the neck, to the shoulder, along the arm, to the wrist. Write this measurement also in inches.

For more information, you can read this article Measuring Neck Circumference and Arm Length.

Shirt Size	Neck Circumference	Hand Length
small	14 - 14 ½	32 - 33
Medium	15 - 15 ½	32 - 33
Large (big)	16 - 16 ½	34 - 35
X-Large (bigger)	17 - 17 ½	34 - 35
XX-Large (very big)	18 - 18 ½	35 - 36

Part 2 of 3: Checking Shirt Quality

Step 1. Determine if the stitches have been joined

Unequal stitches usually indicate high quality. Machine-stitched fabrics will have a uniform seam line.

Check the hem along the sides of the shirt. On good quality clothes you will only see one seam line on the side of the shirt, while most shirts have two seams. Also, check to see if the two stitches don't match each other, or if the pattern is irregular.
Another thing to check is the buttons along the front of the shirt. In general, machine-attached buttons will come loose, or some threads may come loose. Another thing to check is the buttonhole itself. Make sure the buttonhole seam is tied tightly.
To check, use your finger to draw the seam line on the shirt, or buttons/buttonholes. Gently pull, twist and move it up and down. If you feel the seams are coming off, or feel loose, it's best to leave the shirt alone

Step 2. Locate the gauntlet button, a few inches above the cuff

These buttons are usually absent on lower quality shirts. The buttons of the gauntlet allow the sleeves to be buttoned more tightly, and make the person wearing it feel more snug.

The gauntlet buttons make it easy to roll the sleeves up or down when you want. Shirts with gauntlet buttons are very comfortable to wear in hot weather because you can roll up the sleeves and enjoy outdoor activities more comfortably.
Cheaper, or lower-quality shirts may have a slit at the wrist, but they won't have buttons. If you don't have the budget to buy expensive shirts, you can always attach a simple basic button where the gauntlet buttons should be.[1]

Step 3. Check the back of the shirt for a “split yoke”

Yoke is a panel of fabric that runs along the back of the shirt, near the shoulders. A “Split yoke” has two layers of fabric that are sewn together at an angle, instead of a single layer of fabric.

Turn the shirt so you can see the back. In the shoulder area, or near it, you can find a square-shaped fabric that is sewn to the shirt. If there is a seam in the center of the fabric, and it is facing up at a certain angle, it means the shirt has a “split yoke”.
The “split yoke” design on the shirt represents a higher level of quality. If the shirt is striped, having a “split yoke” has an added benefit: the stripes will run parallel to the “yoke” seam, creating a sleeker, sleeker look.
Shirts with "split yoke" also provide flexibility for the wearer to move. This is because the stretch occurs lengthwise, towards the shoulder.

Step 4. Check the ply count on the shirt

The ply count is how many threads are sewn together to become the woven thread used for shirt fabrics. This information can sometimes be found on shirt labels.

Shirts made with single ply have a softer and smoother texture. Double ply shirts are stronger, but heavier.
Threat count (number of threads per square inch) is also important. For example, if you buy a shirt with double ply, you want about 120 thread count. If the thread count gets higher, especially for shirts with two and three ply, the shirts can become bulky, and uncomfortable. You can get this information by looking at the shirt label, or by asking a clothing expert at the store.
Single ply shirts are perfect for temperate to warm climates. Double ply shirts are usually better for cooler and windier areas. Better shirts are usually made with double ply instead of single ply.

Step 5. Check the shirt for additives

Shirts that are wrinkle-free, sweat-proof, anti-shrinkage, or waterproof are usually treated with special chemicals (see the steps below for possible allergic reactions). Each of the above can change the quality and texture of a shirt.

Check the shirt label to see if there is any notice of added chemicals, or special abilities on the shirt (such as water resistance). If the label doesn't provide this information, be sure to check with a clothing expert before buying a shirt.
There are different reports of wrinkle-free shirts so it's impossible to say for sure if they are really wrinkle-free. In general, wrinkle-free shirts have less creasing, and are looser around the body. Chemicals added to shirts change the nature of the fabric. Shirts that do not contain chemicals are more suitable for work wear because they fit better, and have a neater appearance. Wrinkle-free clothes are more appropriate for more casual events.
Sweat-proof, water-resistant and anti-shrinkage shirts also contain chemicals that change the nature of the shirt fabric. Again, there are differing reports of the shirt's ability to combat these problems. The only way to know if the claim is actually proven is to test it. Wearing a shirt to exercise, spilling water on a shirt, or washing it can prove whether the shirt has the advantages it claims.

Step 6. Look for possible allergic reactions

Fabrics that are spiked with chemicals, or made from two or more different materials can sometimes cause allergic reactions in some people. Sometimes this information is added to the shirt label, but you should also ask an expert.

Make sure with your doctor that the list of allergens that give you a bad reaction is up-to-date. Ask the doctor if he has any medical advice/solutions for dealing with the allergy.
Shirts made of synthetic fabrics can be spiked with chemicals and dyes that won't go away even if they've been washed many times. Almost all shirts are treated with some kind of chemical before being shipped out of the factory. T-shirts that are wrinkle-free, sweat-proof, and anti-shrinkage all have the potential to contain some kind of chemical or dye. Make sure you check shirt labels, and ask an expert for help.
Apart from asking for expert help, you can do the checking yourself. Make sure you smell the shirt before buying it. Sometimes shirts can get mixed up, or combined with other items that may be dangerous for you. Try to gently scratch the surface of the shirt to see if the shirt is contaminated or contaminated in any way.

Part 3 of 3: Making Sure the Shirt Size Fits

Step 1. Bend your arms as you stand straight

The sleeves of the shirt should be long enough so that the cuff doesn't go up to the wrist when you move your hand. The cuff should also not rise more than 2.5 cm from the hand. You can use a ruler to measure if the sleeves are too long, and how much to shrink.

Step 2. Make sure the cuff fits around the wrist

The cuff should not hang over the hand. You shouldn't be able to get out your hand without first unbuttoning the cuff. Slide two fingers under the cuff. If both fingers can fit comfortably under the cuff, it means the cuff is too big.

Step 3. Check the buttons

The position of the buttons must be right, without gaping gaps that reveal the chest. Slip four fingers and pat the chest between each button. If the hand can go in, it means the buttons are too far apart.

Step 4. Make sure as you move the shirt is pulled comfortably at the chest or waist

Inhale and exhale naturally to see if the shirt is loose enough or not. Keep your legs straight as you slowly move your upper body back and forth. If the shirt feels tight in the chest, replace it with a shirt with a slightly larger size.

Step 5. Raise both arms

Check that the hem of the shirt is not sticking out of the pants. Bend your body to the left and right and back. If the hem of the shirt comes out of the pants, this condition will embarrass you in the future. Also, check the belt and make sure it's tight enough to hold the hem of the shirt.

Step 6. Attach all the buttons to the top

You should be able to slip two or three fingers between the neck and collar. Slide your fingers from left to right, and around your neck. Make sure you don't catch your breath while wearing a shirt. You should be able to breathe naturally and comfortably.

Tips

Some shirts use two numbers for sleeve length; these two numbers indicate the range of arm lengths that should fit. For example, a size 17/34-35 shirt should fit a man who needs a sleeve length of 34 or 35 inches. In general, the right size is better.
The chart above is adopted from the sizes used in America for men's shirts. Women's shirts use a different measurement system. Some shirts may be labeled with sizes used in Europe or other measurement systems. When in doubt, it's a good idea to try on a shirt before buying it.
If you find the right shirt, there's nothing wrong with buying more than one. Accidents can happen. Don't get caught in a shirtless situation when the best shirt breaks (or gets dirty).
Other types of collars are pin collars, which have a hole in each collar to accommodate a lapel pin, tab collars (with small fabric tabs that snap together, keeping the collar tight around the tie), and banded collars. (a narrow collar that is less formal and cannot be folded down, usually worn without a tie). You may want to try all variations of these collars at a clothing store to see if they will suit you.
Complete the shirt with a matching tie and pants that match the shirt. The color of the shirt must match the tie, either as a "background" for the tie or match one of the colors in the tie motif. Striped ties are very classic and conservative, while plain ties are usually more formal.
Custom-stitched shirts are usually designed for people who are athletic or thin. If you are a big person, you should choose a shirt with a traditional cut.
If you're one of those people who dress in a conservative style, there's a general idea that you should avoid combining one color, such as a red shirt with a plain red tie, or a black shirt with a black suit. However, for a more trendy style, monochromatic looks have become fashionable in recent years.

Warning

Check for allergens that have been detected and told by the doctor. Dyes, chemicals and additives can all cause serious skin reactions for some people. Make sure you check with your doctor and a dresser to make sure the fabric type fits your particular condition.
Make sure the shirt you choose is comfortable to wear, and doesn't choke your neck. This can cause you to gasp for air, and not be able to swallow properly.