Choosing the Perfect Casual Shirt
Wednesday, 1 September 2010
An important attribute to look for in a shirt is to check that they are impeccably made and rich in detail so each one will stand the test of time. What's more, casual shirts should be as comfortable and relaxed as the weekend. This guide looks at ideal shirt fabrics, fits and styles to help you choose the perfect shirt for you.
Fit
People come in all shapes and sizes and fortunately you'll find that shirts are available in a wide range of sizing and different fits too. Although the fits vary from shirt to shirt, there are general rules of thumb to help you decide which is best for you.
Classic fit shirts/relaxed fit - Classic shirts have a relaxed fit which is supremely comfortable and won't feel tight. A classic fit shirt has a more generous shape than a tailored fit shirt without being too billowy, so the fabric will move with you without 'pulling'.
Tailored fit/fitted shirts - Tailor-fitted mens shirts are cut to be slightly more tapered at the waist for a more fitted effect. They are especially flattering on slim and average builds but still have a comfortable, casual fit. Some fitted womens shirts contain fabric darts which nip the fabric in to produce a smooth silhouette.
Fabric
Another key feature to look for in a shirt is the fabric; ideally you're looking for the softest, purest natural fibres. Whether cotton or linen shirts made from these fibres are comfortable, breathable and absorbent. Here are some of the fabric weaves, washes and finishes you should be looking for in casual shirts.
Poplin - Crisp, cool and comfortable, poplin is the classic cotton shirt fabric that is ideal all year round, for many occasions.
Oxford - A shirt with an Oxford weave is generally a little heavier and warmer than a cotton poplin weave so is ideal in the cooler autumn and winter months. Oxford cloth usually contains a combination of dyed and undyed threads to give a more relaxed casual shirt.
Pinpoint - The pinpoint shirt weave is a combination of both cotton poplin and Oxford. It is woven using long staple cotton (for extra softness) and, as with the Oxford shirt weave, only the warp yarn is dyed.
Herringbone and Twill - These are textured shirt weaves that produce a diagonal structure and gives the shirts an interesting accents. Both weaves are warmer than classic poplin so is favoured in the colder seasons.
Peach finish - A shirt with a peach finish has usually undergone a process in which the fabric has been very lightly distressed - this gives it an extra soft feel. Some casual shirts have a carbon finish which means they are wonderfully relaxed and feel extremely comfortable against the skin.
Vintage wash - Vintage wash shirts are very similar to those with a peach finish. They are exceptionally soft to the touch and have a 'worn-in' look which is very comfortable, cosy and relaxed.
Double layer fabric - Shirts with double layer fabric are extra warm, comfortable and durable.
Style
There are a variety of shirt styles available out there from stripes to checks and all in between. Here is a selection of the most popular casual shirt styles and designs.
Stripe shirts - Stripes are superb at helping a person look taller and leaner in an instant, so it's no wonder Crew stripe shirts for both women and men are exceedingly popular. A top tip is to go for a bold statement stripe which is both flattering and stylish.
Check shirts - The gingham check is back with a vengeance this season. The check originates from Indonesia and was originally a stripe design before it evolved into the distinctive and stylish check pattern we know and love today.
Vintage style shirts - Vintage style shirts are the perfect blend of smart and casual. The perfect vintage style shirt should be made of 100% pure cotton to ensure they are delightfully comfortable and breathable with an extra soft vintage wash finish.
Fitted Stretch shirts - Some women's shirts contain a tiny dash of stretch fabric which helps create an elegant tailored fit. This style of shirts in white is an essential for any woman's wardrobe.
It's All in the Detail
Shirts from top brands and designers always have an eye for detail and feature little extras that are smart and understated. For example, shirts can have branded buttons, neck and cuff trims, as well as our distinctive labels and logos.
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