Mens fashion – Big business in Australia
photo by paul (dex) busy @ work
Have you ever just stopped during your lunch hour and looked at what people are wearing? You see one tall, lean man walking near you; he’s wearing gray tights and sandals that would resemble what Jesus would wear. You look around and see a group of young men wearing jeans that dangle halfway down the designer briefs they have on. Another man sitting on the bench with you is wearing pants he designed out of an old checkered shirt, by turning it upside down and getting his legs into where his arms should be.
At one time, men were doomed to the fashion labels; sort of like a fat man trying to wear slim jeans. However, men’s fashion wear is very big business and is worth at least $2.7 billion annually in Australia based on the data by IBISWorld.
Today, it’s cool for a man to be fashionable, take some satisfaction in your appearance and be stylish. Basically, it’s not boys doing it for a girl’s attention; they’re just dressing fashionably and taking pride for themselves now.
You can even see football and basketball players looking good even when they change their hairstyles nearly every week. You can see the same thing happening in the music scene as the glam/romantic era is making a return. Boys are making that extra effort to dazzle themselves up.
There was a time that men could look like slobs and get away with it. Now they must present themselves better, which is wonderful for some and unsettling for some males. Why? There was a time that all males needed to do to attract women was to have a decent but powerful position to earn money.
One big reason for the change in men’s attitude is due to women and their attitudes. More and more women are becoming financially independent, which means they don’t need to rely on men for total financial support; it also means they demand more of their men’s respect. The balance has shifted and men must understand that most women are no longer submissive; they want power just like their male counterparts. They want their man to be an equal, have money and they must look good on top of it all.
Due to this change, men’s fashion, both in casual and business shirts, has been propelled into mainstream and the industry is informing men what styles are hot and which are not. In fact, it’s not uncommon to pick up a magazine with well-dressed men on a glossy page layout. No longer are women standing at the forefront when it comes to how people are dressed.
Men are taking more pride in their appearance and using clothes such as business shirts to express who they are, their personality and style sense in the often boring and conservative corporate world. One type of business shirt that men are opting to wear is the highly quality, 100 percent slim-fit, Egyptian cotton business shirt that’s got a classic colour to it and French cuffs- what could be more important than this (other than your next promotion..)
Using the seasons to pick the best colour business shirt
photo by Aunt Owwee
When people are looking at shirts, the first thing they’re going to notice is the colour of it. If you’re a male in the room with a bunch of other males in suits, the colour of your business shirt will either make you stand out or blend in. Where do you want to stand in this crowd?
Actually, the answer to that question depends on what intentions you have and if you know how to mix/match your clothes to meet those intentions. The way you do this is to understand what colour shades will compliment you and how the colours will match your environment.
How seasons play a role in your business shirt colours
While you should pay attention to your skin tone and hair colour, these aren’t the only things you need to be focused on when choosing your business shirt colour. Make sure you pay attention to the season that you are in. You may like the dark shirt and suit but during the summer time, you’re going to find it hot around your collar and sticking out sorely (you certainly don’t want to look odd at special events such as a formal presentation).
Here are a few ideas to help you choose the colour of your business shirt based on the season.
Spring – This is the season that brings out the light colours such as light blue, lavender and pink. These lighter weight fabrics are usually brought out after being set aside for the winter months. However, a man who chooses to wear a multi-coloured checks and strips shirt can stand out from the crowd.
Summer – This is the season that bold and light colours make their appearance. Shirt colours that should grace the man’s wardrobe should be solid blues and patterns. We recommend 100% Egyptian cotton as it’s by far the most premium business shirt fabric going round.
Autumn– During the autumn season, heavier and Earth tone fabrics tend to show up. Clothes start making a somber appearance to highlight the near appearance of the winter season. This is also the ideal time to wear blends if you find yourself outside on a cold night without a jacket/coat. (clothes can certainly keep you warm when you don’t have anything else that will…)
Winter – During the winter season, more men will wear black/dark clothes to retain the body heat. However, you don’t have to stick with black as your only colour. You can go with a maize colour, greens and browns as well during this season.
Keep up your confidence by keeping up your appearance. If you notice people looking at you for a bit longer (and if you see a woman taking noticeable glances) then you know that your attire such as your business shirt is everything you wanted it to be and more. Just remember to be courageous and know what colours compliment you and the season you are in.
Accessories with suits and business shirts
photo by the moog
There are all kinds of accessories that can go with a business suit. When you know how to use those accessories, you won’t overdo your look. Not having the right accessories can make your whole outfit look not quite right. Accessories you can include with your business suit include:
- Belts
- Watches
- Handkerchiefs
What you need to know about belts and suits
The one clothing accessory that’s in style off and on is belts. During the 1930s and 1940s, suspenders were generally used more than belts. However, today, you can find more people wearing belts; although traditional men don’t wear belts with their suits, seem strange- just heck out a leading fashion publication and you’ll see not many belts with suits.
If you decide to wear a belt, make sure that your shoes and belts are about the same colour; be sure your belt is either one of three things: plain silver, leather or coloured buckle. Suspenders are usually worn when a belt is not.
How to handle pieces of jewellery (basically we mean watches)
Jewellery should not overpower your outfit; the most you need is cufflinks, a timepiece and tie bars/tacks. If you want something formal to wear on your wrist, a watch can be your signature piece.
If you’re unclear of the handlings of watches and how they go with your business suit, you also have the option of not wearing a watch at all, a common trend is just to use your mobile if you need to know the time- it’s always with you right! However, a watch is the ideal accessory when you’re trying to look cool and sophisticated.
Cell phones/Bluetooth accessories – should you use them with business suits
This is the era of technology and it’s not hard to find people walking around their office, on the streets and in their cars using the Bluetooth earpiece. Unlike what many people think, the Bluetooth earpiece does not make you look cool and you aren’t seen as very credible. Most people have a phone and don’t feel the need to look like they are a dodgy private investigator- so why should you- think twice.. you’ve been warned!
How to use handkerchiefs with business suits
Do you remember when many people would use their handkerchief and then place it in the upper chest pockets or in their pant’s back pockets? Not too long ago, handkerchiefs were worn in the area of the left jacket sleeve, showing ever so slightly. As time passed, handkerchiefs were moved to the breast pocket. In the past, silk was seen as a rare commodity and a way to flaunt wealth. Near the turn of the 19th century, handkerchiefs were standard among males. Most males don’t realize it but in some places of the world handkerchiefs must still be used in breast pockets of coats and jackets. However, handkerchiefs, business shirts and suits do not go hand in hand so leave them to people who are more artistic.
Matching ties with suits
photo by jayneandd
Ties are a matter of personal preference and taste but they are some basic guidelines to them. After all, you don’t want to look like a total goof trying to impress your boss or some woman, right?
Ties and colour: what should you be aware of?
When you’re looking at ties to wear, you need to be aware of the shirt colour. Always, without fail, wear ties that are darker than your shirt. Make sure the ties’ background colour is not the same as the shirt while making sure that the ties has some colour resemblance to the shirt. Whatever tie you choose to wear, make sure you integrate the suit colour in the same way as the business shirt.
While simple/subdued patterns are favoured for the conservative dress, the terms can be taken in a variety of ways. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, it was popular to have matching necktie colours with the shirt (a look that many people adopted because of TV personalities). It was also popular to wear a dark coloured shirt and light coloured tie; though this was mainly seen at formal occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, graduations, etc. Thank god we have evolved- some fashions are better kept in the past…If you feel like wear a blue shirt with a dark blue tie, this works well too.
Knots and ties – three common knots you can use
When talking about knots in ties, there are three very common names that come up. They are:
- Four-in-hand
- Half-Windsor
- Full-Windsor
These three knots are more fitting to wear with a suit based upon the modern guidelines. Once they’ve been correctly knotted and arranged, the bottom can be extended to any part of your belly. However, the ties thin part does not need to be any longer than the tie’s wide end. However, if the tie is thin, this is tolerable.
A look at ties in the past
During the 1960s, men and women would wear scarves with their suits that were tied into knots either inside the shirt (known as an Ascot) or under the collar, worn like a tie. This style was highly common for people who worked in the art department like musicians and film directors. For corporate executives, it was best to leave any scarves for the winter time or when you’re out with the ladies. However, the style faded during the mid 1970s but in the 1990s, the style was revived (women, for the most part, would wear it). Again, in 2005, the style made a comeback with many famous people wearing them. While scarves were prevalent during the 1960s, business workers preferred ties. Although Matt Preston wouldn’t be caught dead on Masterchef without his favoured cravat- the jury is out on whether this trend will go mainstream….
If you think it’s too hard tying a knot, consider getting an elastic novelty tie and see just how far your life in the career sector gets. Tying a knot isn’t all that hard now, is it?
Business shirts exposed
photo by brains the head
When you have so many things to choose from, it’s not necessarily a good thing. This statement is especially true for when men are choosing business shirts that come in a variety of colours. After all, your chances of choosing the wrong one will increase. When you’re in the market for your next set of premium men’s business shirts, keep these two tips in mind (by doing so, you won’t become the laughing stock of your workplace).
First, make sure your business shirts aren’t too hard on the eyes or so in your face. That means you need to steer clear of shirts that are neon, floral or really bright red. Loud shirts are great for scientists or have invented a new dance craze but not for ordinary folk like yourself. Be sure your style sense includes the corporate world; have light, traditional colours and only the basic patterns.
Second, you can add in cufflinks to your attire. Avoid novelty cufflinks because that’s not what is meant by adding cufflinks. Go for cufflinks that are classic and bold and something that will catch the eye.
The idea behind wearing patterned business shirts is to keep the attire subtle. When you wear something bold and contrasting, it can distract the attention away from the attention you were looking for. It makes it even harder to find a tie to accentuate the shirt. Bold means colours such as green and yellow. In some cases, stripes of blue and white are still fine for business shirts.
Make sure that you stick with shirts that are light in colours and don’t have over three colours. The only time it’s acceptable to have more than three colours is when you’re wearing a checkered shirt. Ensure that white is the base colour and then throw in the grays, blues, reds and browns. Above all else, the pattern should be easy on everyone’s eyes. If you have too many things going on, it can really distract from what you were trying to attain with your wardrobe. Bear in mind that dark patterned shirts are not usually seen as work-related shirts. Business shirts should always have fresh, eye-appealing colours.
Should business shirts have pockets?
Now you may ask if it’s acceptable to have a pocket on the shirt or no pocket. If you go with a no pocket look, you’ll have the opportunity to wear the shirt outside of work (such as going to weddings or other social gatherings). It’s also great for those corporate executives who are young in age. If you have a shirt with a pocket on it, toss it on now. You won’t look stylish or cool. Basically, the answer to your question is: go with business shirts that have no pockets on them.
Buying business shirts online
photo by Tobyotter
OK, so you’ve made the decision to buy yourself some mens business shirts, something that’ll make you stand out from other men in your company- you deserve that promotion more than anyone! You may not have needed to purchase a new business shirt for some time but you know your fashion tastes and you know that shopping won’t be a problem. You have no qualms about spending $100 to $150 on a good-looking, high quality, premium business shirt, something you know will hold up through wear and tear.
It may have been some time since you purchased any business shirts and during this time, the Internet has changed and evolved- if you thought it was just a fad, you might want to think again.. If you’ve never purchased your business shirts online, you may be a bit uneasy. Clothes shopping isn’t the same as purchasing music off the Internet. When you get MP3s online or buy DVDs, you pretty much know what to expect. However, buying clothes online leaves room for the unexpected. Here are some helpful tips to make your first online clothes purchase a gratifying experience.
Two useful tips to help you buy your business shirts online:
- First, purchasing clothes online has many advantages that retail shopping is unable to give. No doubt, buying clothes online is faster; it allows you to shop from website to website, comparing prices against each one (possibly finding a better deal)
- Second, online businesses, because of the competitive market, can offer discounts, allowing consumers to get a bargain. This also cuts out any middlemen and overhead costs; something that’s seen with retail stores
Things to look out for when buying clothes online
Are there risks to purchasing clothes online? Absolutely. Before you purchase anything, do some research on the companies you’d like to buy from. What should be on the lookout for?
- First, research their returns policy; if there’s no 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, you’ll want to be a bit wary
- Second, be sure the website has some kind of sizing chart that way you know what size you need when you order
- Third, be well aware of how much time it takes to get your package, from start to finish. It should arrive in a reasonable amount of time. You certainly don’t want to wait three weeks or more to get your package; the normal processing to shipping to arrival time is between three to five business days
- Fourth, the overall costs should be included in your total
Would you wear a business shirt if you worked from home?
photo by hectorir
Ask yourself this question: would you even bother wearing a business shirt and/or suit if you worked from your home? How many people crave the day that they can ask themselves this very question? So what would you do? How would you like to not shave your face or get out of your favorite pyjamas? Doesn’t sleeping in some good too?
Now, ask yourself this question: what is the downfall of working at home? You don’t work as a team, you don’t get to eat lunch with friends and you don’t feel like your life as real purpose.
Here’s what you need to remember: you cannot achieve a professional look, attitude and status when you work at home. For those people a professional look goes a very long way.
The first thing you can do when you work in public is take pride in how you look and present yourself. When you do, chances are you’re going to have some compliments come your way. Plus, looking professional can get you ahead of your competition.
If you’re a man, having a great suit is vital but having yourself a premium business shirt is a wonderful way to make that strong, long-lasting impression. You’ll be glad to know that there are several choices available when you’re in the market for a new business shirt but you should know there are some things you need to be on the lookout for.
Whatever you do, do not compromise material. If you want the best, go for 100 percent Egyptian cotton. After all, it’s premium material, feels good, maintains its shape and will last for quite some time. On top of all that, you still want a design that’s got a slim fit cut. Suit colors are subjective but if you want the classics (as most people do) then choose the classics for your suit. Make sure to pick business shirts that are light in color, pin-striped or plain. Use your sense of style to choose the tie you want to wear with the suit.
Did you know that you could shop for many of your business shirts online? There are many reasons to shopping for your men’s business shirts through the Internet. However, you need to know what you’re looking for.
Here’s some advice that can help you get the best deals and shirts through the Internet:
- Make sure the payment portal is secure
- Be sure the website states in no uncertain terms who the portal is
- Be sure they clearly state the reliability of the portal
- Know what the refund policy is
- You should also take advantage of free shipping/express delivery sites
Bear in mind that your first online business shirts purchase (so long as it’s been a pleasant experience) won’t be your last online purchase. Your next business shirts online purchase will lead to even more savings-time and money!
The best business shirts are all in the feel
photo by sandman_kk
Do you have a picture in your mind in how you want that premium business shirt to look like, right down to its collar, color, cuffs, fit and style? Did you know that you’re missing one main ingredient for that business shirt? You will need to know what kind of material you want to have it designed in. When you know this, then you know that the money you shell out will be worth the price you’re paying for the shirt.
What generally makes a man buy business shirts: material is everything
When you’re trying to decide whether or not to purchase men’s business shirts, the material type will play a huge part in whether or not you buy a particular brand and style. This should be a deciding factor when you’re placing money on men’s business shirts.
Yes, all shirts look alike when they’re on the store shelves. However, when you’re buying your shirts in the store… go ahead and feel the material. Would it be something you’d like to wear on your back? Of course, if you’re buying business shirts online, then you need to have this prior knowledge in mind; you need to know what you’re paying for. It also demonstrates that the manufacturing company knows what they’re doing.
Sometimes, it’s not very easy to determine what the shirt is made from. When this happens, one can deduce that the shirt manufacturer doesn’t want to advertise that they skimmed on the quality that will ensure your health. Just remember that the fabric of a good tailored shirt is going to feel good and natural against your skin.
King of fabric – cotton
Most people, men and women alike, go for clothing that’s made of 100 percent cotton because it feels good and is comfortable. Now, you may not realize it (and many people don’t so don’t fret too much) but there are a variety of cotton types. Some types of cotton include:
- Egyptian – top end cotton with a great feel
- Organic
- Pima
Cotton and polyester – People may make compromises on cotton because (if you didn’t know) 100 percent cotton tends to wrinkle. However, if the fabric is mixed in with polyester, wrinkles can all but be eliminated. Don’t turn your nose up to the idea of a polyester/cotton blend (though cotton should be the material that’s used more). Bear in mind that these types of business shirts are generally inexpensive compared to 100 percent cotton shirts.
Cotton and spandex – On top of the mixture of polyester and cotton, shirt materials may consist of cotton and spandex, which helps give the shirt some flexibility, makes it stronger and reduces the possibility of wrinkles.
Linen instead of cotton – A great substitute for cotton is linen; however, it’s way too casual for business shirts and, believe it or not, it can wrinkle even more than cotton does. Leave linen to the people who really want to wear them.
When you’ve looked for your shirts, has it ever crossed your mind what the manufacturer/designer was thinking when they look at fabric quality? Besides the design, there are two characteristics on a shirt and they are:
- Yarn count (thread count)
- What the fabric is made up of
Now, the yarn count will be what determines the fabric’s feel. The higher the count, the softer it’s going to be. What’s the yarn count? Well, that depends on the number of threads per square inch. When you’re on the lookout for your next business shirt, remember that any number higher than 100 is great; thread counts of 80 are fine to give you that nice feel and make you feel comfortable.
Mens’ fashion do’s and don’ts
photo by dominic bartolini
Men and women differ in their fashion sense. After all, women will wear clothes that make them stand out and be noticed. Men, on the other hand, will choose clothes that will enable them to blend in with the crowd. Women often compliment one another about their choice of attire; men are a bit more subtle with their compliments if at all..
If you find that a friend is dressing rather suave, how likely are you to compliment him for his style? Chances are you probably wouldn’t. However, if you’re secure enough in your manhood, why not give them a compliment? If you’re worried about your compliment coming out the wrong way, here are some helpful do’s and don’ts when you’re giving out an admiring comment to a male friend.
A look at the five “how to compliment men” do’s:
- Give your compliment by asking your male friend where he got his outfit.
- Compliment your friend by flipping over the tie or pulling open the jacket to check the label- play it cool, like you’re not that interested. This type of act implies a compliment in the man’s taste. It tells them that you like their sense of style and want to check out what kind of brand of clothing they are wearing.
- Use your thumb and forefinger to feel the fabric. The best place is at the sleeve of the jacket so that you can feel the fabric and its thickness. Don’t do anymore than that.
- Now, getting a business shirt brand isn’t near as easy; however, you can check out men’s business shirts by several signs. These are what you need to be complimenting him on. The ways to tell of a premium business shirt include:
- Well-shaped collar
- French cuffs
- Slim fit cut - Compliment the man on his shoes and ask him what brand they are.
Now a look at the four “how to compliment men” don’ts:
- Don’t compliment him in the way the attire makes him look. This includes statements such as:
- “That shirt makes your eyes really stand out nicely.”
- “Those shorts look very good on you.” - Don’t phone your co-workers to find out what they’ll be wearing when you’re on a business trip. This is the time to let unintentional matches occur.
- Don’t spend too long gawking over another man’s clothes.
- Don’t rub your open hand on the fabric (regardless of where the fabric is at).
When you’re making compliments, the idea is to be short and sweet. Don’t linger too long on the topic and don’t say anything more than what you have, anyway that’s our thoughts on how to not get caught in an awkward encounter!
How to care for your business shirts
photo by ~Twon~
When you care for your shirts in the right manner, the overwhelming look is one of professionalism. On top of that, the shirts will last longer and, because you care for them so delicately, you can wear them as often as you want. Don’t allow wrinkles to make you look disheveled; instead… have perfectly stylish business shirts that you can use during work or after hours.
How to care for your business shirts
Before you start washing/drying your clothes, it’s always great to read the tag and stick to what is suggested. Before you start wearing your premium business shirt, wash it. Failing to do so can make the shirt feel stiff and it could still have chemicals on it. Be sure you use a detergent you trust and be sure your washer setting is on the gentle cycle and use lukewarm water. If you’ve got custom made business shirts, wash the shirts by hand.
Do you always dry clean your clothes because you just don’t have the time or are you just too lazy to clean your own shirts by hand? Go ahead and send them onto the dry cleaning business but be sure they launder your shirts instead of dry clean. The problem with dry cleaning is that it can turn a white business shirt a shade of yellow. Make your shirts last by forgoing the dry cleaning process. When your shirts are going out, make a note that there should be no starch or machine press.
How to lengthen the life of your business shirts
Get rid of stains – Before you start pressing and ironing your shirts, look for stains on them. If you don’t clean it before ironing, you’ll be stuck with that stain for life. Remove stains like ink with an over the counter ink stain remover or rubbing alcohol (which is a home remedy you can try). You can eradicate red wine stains by dumping white wine on the mark then cleaning in.
Dampen your shirt – If your iron isn’t very good, iron the shirt when it’s still wet. This allows you to press easily, removing all the wrinkles; plus, you’re less likely to damage the shirt.
Spray body spray/cologne on body – Don’t spray your cologne or body “smell good” on your clothes; instead, spray it on your body. Wait for the cologne to dry before you put your shirt on. Cologne/body spray stains last forever on your shirts.
Check for damages – If your shirt is need of repair, fix it. Always be on the lookout for loose buttons and threads.
Two tips to store your business shirts
Don’t waste your money by not storing your shirts properly. There are at least two tips to keep in mind that will keep your shirt looking good without the excessive ironing and washing.
Supportive hangers – When you’re hanging up your shirts, be sure you use hangers of thick plastic or wood; do not use wire hangers.
Packing seasonal shirts – If you’re storing your shirts, make sure you wash them before putting them in plastic cases since these can keep bugs and odors from getting into the bin and ruining your premium business shirts.
Buying mens business shirts online
photo by _nickd
Buying business shirts isn’t rocket science and you don’t need a degree to purchase the right shirt. However, there are some things you need to know when it comes to shirt styles and what may or may not work for your body shape.
The perfect business shirt fit
After you’ve gotten your size, collar and cuffs squared away, you need to do deal with the fit. If your body type allows it, go for a fitted (athletic) business shirt style. This shirt will taper toward the waist rather than billow up at the back, which can make you look like a boat sail. When your shirt fits you well, it looks like it was sewn for you right then and there.
Looking at business shirt colours
Another thing you need to look at is the colour of your shirt as well as the patterns. Men, when they are buying their business shirts online or in retail stores, will choose what to buy on three things.
- They like the colour (most men wear blue or white shirts)
- They want new colours (mainly because they are tired of the white and blue)
- They want the now trendy colour (probably something they saw in a fashion mag)
Of course, whatever shirt you decide to purchase should be something you think is right for you and your look. You certainly don’t want to look bad when trying to impress that cute girl at a bar or your boss at work (perhaps even clients). When you need shirts, have fun with your outfit; boring is no fun.
Sleeves on business shirts
What about the sleeves of your shirt? It’s fine to wear long sleeves even when it’s stinking outside. If you get hot, it’s okay to roll your sleeves up. You’ll still look good and suggest to those who see you like this that you’re working hard… when you may be having an easy day.
If you live in an area that repeatedly sees heat waves you may begin to think that wearing short sleeve shirts is fine- wrong unless your really want to get demoted to the mail room..
How to wear your business shirt
Okay, so you bought your shirt and you’re ready to go out on the town. The question becomes… do you know how to wear your business shirt? You don’t have to tuck in your shirt so long as your shirt tapers to your waist and ends when it’s halfway down your butt. The tucking or untucking of your shirt doesn’t say much at all about you… so long as you don’t look like a bum or hobo.
Button tips: how to correctly deal with buttons on business shirts
Basically when men ask how to wear their business shirts, they just want to know how many buttons they can leave unbuttoned at the top. Here are some helpful suggestions on leaving buttons undone:
0 – When you have no buttons undone on your business shirts, you should buy a tie to stand out. If your shirt has no undone buttons, you may be considered someone who’s out of touch with the new way to wear business shirts or a total nerd. You don’t want to come across as either one of those.
1 – When you choose to leave one button undone, you won’t be standing out negatively. In fact, leaving one unbuttoned is fine and seen as acceptable in most business casual environments.
2 – When you decide to leave to buttons undone, you’re pretty sure of yourself especially if you’re European. If you’re an Australian, it’s best to keep your second button done up until after you’ve had lunch.
3 – If you choose to go with three or more buttons, you better be wearing another shirt.
How to wash your business shirts
Now you have your shirts and wearing them often but you’re going to need to take them off. When it’s time to clean them, the best thing you can do for yourself is to hand wash the shirt and then iron it. Of course, you may not have time for this (and that’s okay too). If need be, have them dry cleaned with no starch or have someone clean and press them for you.
Once you get your business shirts back, you should make a phone call to someone special in your life to go out to dinner with and then, for dessert, have a grand ‘ole time taking it off ever so slowly and then throwing it up into the air in the heat of passion.
Wearing a business shirt with suits
photo by ianmunroe
When a man chooses to wear a suit, he’ll typically go with a cotton shirt (we endorse 100% Egyptian cotton); something with long sleeves, a collar and that buttons all the way down. This shirt in Australia is called a business shirt; however, in other dialects, it’s just known by one name… a shirt. It’s also not uncommon for some people to refer to it as an Oxford shirt. However, Oxford shirts are actually shirts made of a certain kind of fabric called Oxford cloth; they are also made to a certain style such as button down collars.
Acceptable business shirt colours
Business shirts usually have to be ironed then when a shirt is worn, it must be tucked into a man’s trousers and worn to the protocol of a business shirt. Now most shirt colours can be found in white or light blue; white is seen as the most conservative. Still, white and light blue are not the only colours available for sale. Pastel coloured shirts are very popular in Australia though they are not always seen as acceptable.
Acceptable cuffs for business shirts
If you want to wear a formal business suit, choose a suit and wear a shirt with French cuffs. Bear in mind that these kinds of shirts are not mandatary but rather optional; it’s up to you depending on the occasion and how good you want to look…
Acceptable collars for shirts
When you look at shirts, you’re liable to see the most common, traditional spread collar. It’s usually seen on French cuff shirts although these can also be found on point collars. Button-down collars are typically seen during casual settings with or without a sports jacket/coat. Button-down collars are not seen so much today especially since more formal shirts with the French cuffs and spread collars are making their way into the business casual wear.
Consider going for the class colour palette when you’re looking at premium business shirt colours but don’t leave out the contemporary cut. By getting both of the new and old style, you can make a huge impact on the corporate world.
Now, if you’re looking to make a long-lasting impression (for the wrong reasons, for whatever reason), consider wearing a short sleeve shirt with trousers to the next corporate board meeting. You’ve been dared to do it.
Collars, colours, cuffs and fits: four factors to consider when finding best men’s business shirts
photo by dps
1. A look at the three fits of men’s business shirts
If you’re looking to buy mens business shirts, you’re quickly going to find that they come in a few different fits. These fits include: athletic, full and regular. The type of business shirt fit you buy will depend on two things: your personal taste and body type.
- Athletic – Shirts of this type are also known as slim and/or tailored; slimmest fit of all business shirts.
- Full – These shirts are looser and longer than regular and athletic shirts and are generally geared toward men who have a larger stature.
- Regular – The fit of this shirt is a bit looser than shirts of the athletic fit.
It’s important to note that if men’s business shirts do not have their fit listed… it’s safe to assume it’s a regular fit. Although regular may be more common, it’s the type of shirt that can fit you like a tent. Amalfi Shirts are more on the athletic, fitted style, although certainly not body hugging.
2. Understanding prints, solids and strips
You already know how many choices there are when it comes to your business shirts but you may not know what shirt color is perfect for you. Don’t waste your money buying all the different colors; instead apply these tips to help you choose your shirt colors.
First, does your work have a dress code policy? Most often law offices and any kind of financial institution will have official policies declaring what’s appropriate and not appropriate. However, it’s not uncommon for some businesses to have an unspoken rule about this as well. Be sure you are aware before you spend your hard-earned cash on business shirts you’ll never wear.
Second, what are your plans for the day? When you need to present yourself to clients, you may want to wear a different type of outfit than an outfit you’d wear when you’ll be in your office all day. Thus, having an assortment of business shirts in the closet is necessary; that way you can meet any kind of situation you have on your schedule.
Third, what will make you feel confident? After you have learned what’s expected in the office, be sure you pick out business shirts you would love to wear. Other men in the office may want to wear the wild striped shirt but you don’t have to go that route yourself. If you feel good wearing that plain white business shirt, go for it.
3. Six types of business shirts collars
When you’re looking at business shirts, you want something that complements the shape of your face. For instance: you have a narrow face; be sure to find narrow collars that have pointed tips. Now, there are six kinds of collars that are found on business shirts, with each one having a different variation to it; some shirts will have a round tip, other shirts may have space between the front tips.
- Button-down – These collar types are seen as less formal than other collars of business shirts. It’s also made from a softer fabric and less starch can be used to press and de-wrinkle it
- Club – This collar has round tips, is short and very stylish; it’s also called a round collar
- Pinned – This high collar has a straight pin that ties the two points; similar to the tab collar
- Spread – The spread collar has a variety of tips that can flatter most face types except people who have a round face
- Straight-point – This collar style, which has v-shaped points, is very common and flattering to the majority of faces
- Tab – These collars are high but with a small spread; men with long necks look best in this kind of collar.
4. Three types of business shirt cuffs
Business shirt cuffs are like collars. How? They also have a variety of styles you can choose from. They have points, curves and different closure amounts. Three basic types of cuffs include:
- Barrel – These cuffs close with at least one button but can have more than one. If a business shirt has more than button, they can be adjusted to ensure they fit
- Convertible – You can close these cuffs with either buttons or cufflinks
- French (double) – The fabric of the French cuff is fairly long and folds backwards; plus, they’re generally closed with a silk knot or cufflink. Some people see French cuffs as formal wear, but it’s the preference for Amalfi Shirts
Spice up your business shirt wardrobe with colour
photo by anne.oeldorfhirsch
Are you like other business men and opt for the white business shirt over a colored one? Rather than making your entire business shirt wardrobe white, consider making a splash with some color. You may already know a bit about the different men shirt styles but you may not know what colors you should have for each one.
Bear in mind that mixing in some color with your white shirt does not mean we’re encouraging the wearing of pink… Pink business shirts are no longer really in style even if the retail outlet passed it off as ‘salmon’ coloured.
Four decent business shirt colors men can wear
Classic Blue – When you want to escape the dullness of the white color, classic blue shirts are a great option. Classic blues also bridges in the gap of formal versus informal, all by the way you choose to wear it. If you decide you want to run for political office, make it stand out by using a red tie. Have a black/gray tie? You’ll be looking formal and portray a sense of strength.
You can also do blue on blue (meaning blue shirt with a blue tie and yes, it can be done) with a blue suit to present yourself casually. In essence, a blue shirt is what you should have packed in your bag when you go out of town. It fits with everything and you won’t be caught off guard for whatever event you must contend with.
Gray – When you’re trying to express seriousness with your clothes, gray may well be the answer. While classic blue can represent many things, gray will tone down whatever suit/coat you choose to wear with it. Consider what you look like wearing a gray shirt with a three-button black suit if you think you look sharp with a classic blue shirt. You could stop a roomful of people with such attire.
Black – Most men underrate the power of black especially as a shirt color. Why is the color black so great to use? It’s the only color that allows you to wear suits, khakis, jeans and tuxedos with it and still look awesome. Let your woman wear your black shirt when she wakes up and you’ll have to wonder why you went with white all those years. Keep in mind that black shirts go great with charcoal tie with a gray modern cut suit and black monk-strap shoes.
Mauve – Before you read any further… pink and mauve is not the same colors. Pink garments should be for women only and men should only have them when they are helping their ladies out of them. Mauve is a pastel color (not pink) and every male on the planet should have one pastel color in the closet that way they can brighten any occasion. Repeat this phrase: mauve is not, in any way shape or form, the color pink.
Now’s the time to look at your closet; soak in the mundane white business shirts and then ask yourself, “Am I really happy with all this white?” If you’re not happy with the attire you have hanging in your closet, purchase more colorful shirts that’s sure to grab the attention of your friends, colleagues and boss. Purchase business shirts that shout out who you are rather than ones that dull your personality.
Tips for buying the best mens business shirts
photo by PinkMoose
How much should you spend on shirts and why
Have you ever thought about how much you spend on clothes? What is your breaking point? How much cash would you part with when you buy clothes? What amount of money should you spend on a shirt?
If you set aside $60 for a shirt, you can buy an OK Chinese cotton blend. However, make it $100 and you can purchase yourself a high quality cotton business shirt and also have a greater choice of shirts to purchase.
When you’re shopping for a shirt, you want to choose it because of how the fabric makes you feel; whenever possible, choose 100 percent cotton should you be able to afford it. If you spend more than $150, you may as well purchase a custom made business shirt since at this price range you’ll be paying for the design and/or brand name.
If you decide to go the custom route, the majority of these shirts will sell for $200-$250 or more; it’s also not uncommon to see shirts at $500. If you’ve never purchased business shirts online before, consider using a website that doesn’t require a minimum order.
How business shirts fit
While aesthetics is important, your comfort is more important; thus, pay special attention to how the shirt feels in the neckline and on your shoulders. You don’t want anything baggy or constrictive since these can make you look poorly dressed. Be sure you find business shirts that will make you stand out, but are not too lairy.
Think about the lifestyle you lead. Do you sit at your desk all day? If so, then you don’t want a shirt that’s too tight. How can you determine your shirt is going to be a problem? Wear a suit over the shirt to determine if it’s going to be too baggy or tight. The best way to tell if you’re going to be strangled or have some bagginess is to place two fingers between the top of the collar and suit jacket.
Make sure your cuffs do not show any more than one-quarter to one-inch of your shirt beyond the sleeve of the coat. That doesn’t mean you need to purchase a coat that’s longer in the sleeves. In the majority of cases, the sleeve of the jacket will already be too long; not the shirt sleeve being too short.
Are your non-iron shirts made of inferior quality?
The answer to the above question actually depends on one major factor: the type of fabric the shirt is made of. When a shirt is labelled “non-iron”, it’s the companies’ way of unloading their inventory with shirts that are made of low-quality cotton, acrylic and/or polyester.
Better quality non-iron shirts will be made of high quality fabric, which will then be treated in chemicals to get rid of wrinkles. If you need non-iron business shirts, make sure you purchase 100 percent cotton from an esteemed shirt manufacturer.
Overall, it’s going to always be difficult to get away with not ironing, and who wants a shirt with chemicals plastered all over it? Ironing is unfortunately a necessity when it comes to the best quality business shirts, if you’re really not up to it, you may want to consider outsourcing.
What types of business shirts should men own?
When you want to make an impact, you certainly don’t want to make a negative impression. Thus avoid shirts that have bold colors or recognizable patterns; at least interchange them with the basics.
How can your shirt make you look better?
Make sure you dress right for the occasion, as you don’t want to look out of place wearing the wrong kind of clothes for the event. If you have a business shirt with a collar that demands a tie, make sure you wear one. If you’re going to a formal event, use French cuffs and cufflinks. When you’re washing clothes, be sure you wash it in cold water or send it out to be dry cleaned. Men’s business shirts can be dried on low heat. Whatever you do, don’t bleach or starch your shirts, as these can destroy the clothes’ fibers.
Save money on men’s fashion: use the CPW formula when you purchase clothes
photo by Carly Jane1
How many times have you faced the dilemma of locating that one piece of clothing that you’d like to include in your closet, only you didn’t have the money to buy it or you just really struggled to shell out the $300 outlay? So how can you determine that you’re getting what you’re paying for your clothes?
A look at the cost per wear formula
You’ll need to calculate the cost per wear (or CPW) since it’s the way to justify those kinds of purchases that are great to look at but difficult for the wallet to take.
How can you save money using the CPW formula? Start by dividing the actual cost of the item and make an estimation of how many times you’d wear it. When looked it in this way, you can determine if you’re going to save money or actually waste it.
- Clothing staples – These are clothes you plan on wearing for sometime, usually more than one season. The best idea is to stay below $25 CPW.
- Designer clothes – These are clothes that follow a trend, usually very current; meaning you’ll wear it a few times and then give it away. The best idea for these clothes is to stay below $15 CPW annually.
- Luxury items – These are attire pieces that are timeless and go beyond season and trend. These items have a CPW of $30 to $60.
As you see, the way to save yourself money is to determine how many times you would wear something.
Shoes and the CPW formula
No doubt shoes will make or break your outfit. For that reason, you don’t want to pinch your pennies. Look for shoes that are stylish but simple (so that you can wear it with any outfit). Most guys will wear the same shoe about 40 times annually. For example, you want to buy Salvatore Ferragamo Andrea Lace Up shoes with a retail cost of $475. Using the CPW formula, you can determine the shoes cost per wearing would be.
CPW formula – Divide $475 (cost of shoes) by 40 (amount of times on average shoes are worn); the price per wearing of shoe comes out to be $11.87.
Jeans and the CPW formula
In the current market, a great pair of jeans like Nudies are going to cost around $300. Many men would start to choke on that price but you need to remember that jeans are going to be worn often and are usually seen in a man’s wardrobe (yours too). Don’t forget that jeans can be worn at the office, the bar, clubs and home. If you live in Sydney, wearing jeans with a business shirt is common place. When you look at it closely, it’s not unreasonable for one pair of jeans to be worn in at least 60 times in a given year.
CPW formula – Divide $300 by 60 and you come up with $5 per wear. Now, that’s $5 per time you wear those pair of pants (not such a bad deal anymore, right?)
Watches and the CPW formula
Watches are a timeless and necessity accessory. Since you don’t want to be caught late to a date with a beautiful female, it’s best to go with a classic but reliable watch. After all, it’ll be something you wear on an everyday basis. There are all kinds of watch brands to choose from including the Oris TT3 Chronograph at a price of $3, 750.
CPW formula – Divide $3,750 by 365 and you come up with a price of $10.27 per day.
To sum up, bear in mind that it’s not what you spend but if you spend it wisely. You want to ensure that what you spend makes sense with the clothes that you’re buying. Use the CPW formula to help save money especially when it comes to the high price clothes.
Collars and cuffs: what to consider when you’re buying business shirts online
photo by millicent_bystander
If you’re shopping for a business shirt, you’ll find no shortage of options either online, or offline. There’s shirts with a button-collar, others that are barrel cuffed… and no matter what style they come in… the priority is always that the business shirt is the best possible quality. As people get older, their styles change; they may even have the physical marks to show the mistakes they made with their clothes. When you’re out shopping, keep in mind the different types of business shirt collar options suitable to highlight your best features.
A look at the six varieties of collars
Banded – Banded collar shirts basically means there is no collar; just a lone button that can be found at the neck. Many male celebrities have worn this type of shirt… including MacGyver.
Button-down – Shirts with this type of collars are quite popular with Mormons, consulting firms, schools, etc. This shirt should not be worn unbuttoned and you shouldn’t alter it by cutting off the buttons, trying to make it a regular shirt. You’ll still have the buttonholes in the collar area and people are going to notice.
Curved – A curved collar is just a straight collar that will curve away from the face ever so slightly. If you’re looking for a different look, you’ll find it with this kind of collar. You can find Steve Martin wearing this shirt type from time to time.
Spread – This type of collar is straight but has been so spread out that it’s no longer straight. Due to space that can be seen between the collar tips, the shirt collar is also known as cutaway. These types of shirts are usually narrower than shirts with straight collars. These shirt types are found in an array of spread distances.
Straight – The most common type of collar you’ll find being sold on the market is the standard collar. Straight collars have a number of spreads, which means the distance between collars where your tie might reside. Of course, you don’t want to choose to narrow of a spread, as it might cause some problems.
Tab – It’s not understood why there is a tab collar but it’s a collar that’s got a small snap-tab, which connects both sides of the collar together.
The idea with having so many choices of collars is to find one that you like. If you’ve got a narrow face, your best bet is to use wide collars so that you can broaden your face (make it stand out). If a man has a wide face, he should use only collars that are narrow so that the business shirt will lengthen their face.
Keep in mind that your personal preference should play out before you disregard a collar type. However, you should never just settle on any collar. Wear what you want and forget what anyone else thinks. If you look good in it and know it, wear it.
Tips and advice about cuffs
There are several options for your business shirt cuffs, however, you mainly see either built-in buttons or holes for your cufflinks. Just like the collars of men’s business shirts, your choice of cuff types should be based on your personal style. Our preference is to go for the double cuff or French cuff shirt, so you can bust out the cufflinks!
Hawaii 5-0: Beware the great mens fashion mistakes
photo by Mild Mannered
You are sure to see them anywhere you go in the world and even in commercials (on TV and on the Internet)… those nasty Hawaii 5-0 shirts that were such a fashion icon during the early 1980s and are still worn today by some people from time to time. They can hide stains and can go with any pair of pants that you have in your wardrobe, so surely that’s not so bad, right?? Not correct… Here’s a news flash on Hawaiian shirts: they are an icon, long since forgotten and were designed to be laughed at. They are not meant to represent actual style or quality, no matter how good a designer/tailor is. Do you remember the Baz Luhrmann rendition of the 1990’s Romeo and Juliet starring Leo DiCaprio? If you remember correctly, DiCaprio’s moody teenage character would wear those Hawaiian t-shirts and many people probably thought it was cool to wear those shirts as well. However, here’s something to consider: no matter how hard you try, the shirts don’t look cool, you don’t look cool in them and you’re not Leo DiCaprio… so stop trying to be.
The Hawaiian shirt is a boxy, ill fitting, have short-sleeves and too many patterns that doesn’t work for anyone who tries to wear it. Some people are under the assumption that short sleeves are not the way to go at all; other people would not agree.
If you really want to wear short-sleeve shirts, you need to maintain a simple color and make sure the pattern is small. Some men can pull this off while other men simply cannot do this. You can also choose the slim-style button down shirts that you can wear buttoned high. However, you need to make sure you wear this with some sense of style and hipness.
You also have the option to wear the shirt open or few buttons done. You certainly don’t want it to look oversized or boxy. In fact, you could simply wear tailored shorts/trousers that can give the same silhouette. Don’t wear pleats or full trousers since they can make the whole attire seem absurd. You don’t want to look like Kramer, do you? If you want to have an American 1950’s hot rod look, then consider picking out some dark indigo denim to wear with your short sleeve shirt. Match it with some brown leather shoes or white canvas slip-ons and you have yourself a good-looking, head-turning outfit. If you’d rather have long sleeve shirts, roll the sleeves up; use either light cotton or linen to bring about an air of sophistication. If you desire to do so, you can wear it like a jacket during the cool nights of those warm, sunny days.
At the end of the day, each to their own, but our advice would be to stay away from the Hawaiian shirts. Leave it up to your dad or wacky uncle to wear them, as they’re probably quite happy to be blissfully ignorant of the impact on their personal style!
What you need to know: 13 frequently asked questions on tailoring of jackets, blazers and shirts
photo by PinkMoose
How many times have you heard the saying the that clothes make the man (or woman, for that matter)? Wearing a suit that was cheap that fits you perfectly, is certainly more preferable than forking out for an Armani suit that doesn’t fit quite right.
When you’re shopping for clothes there’s always the option of having a tailor assist in making them fit just right. However, you need to know what kinds of alterations can be made and what cannot be made. You may think that your tailor has the gift to alter everything but surprise, surprise… there are just some things that cannot be altered, no matter how good your tailor is. For that reason, here are some “frequently asked questions” that we’ve heard people ask from time-to-time about basic tailoring services. We’ve also included a rough estimate in prices (prices in AUD for those viewing this from outside Australia).
1 – Can suit shoulders be made larger?
The answer to this question is no.
2 – Can suit shoulders be made smaller?
Yes, you can do this but it’s not worth it cost-wise. After all, you need to entirely re-construct your jacket so it’s always best to go with a jacket you can already fit properly into.
3 – Can your sleeves be tailored longer?
In many cases, the answer to this question is yes but it depends on how much fabric is available on the sleeves’ underside. If your jacket has surgeon’s buttons, the holes are unable to be moved or covered. However, if you want additional button holes on your extended sleeves, a good tailor can do this for you. The cost is generally $15 to $30 per sleeve; more for the additional button holes.
4 – Can suit sleeves be shortened?
The answer is yes but if the sleeve buttons are well-designed then your shortening of the sleeves could cause the holes to be too close to the sleeve’s end. Thus, great care should be given. The usual cost for this tailor aspect is up to $30 per sleeve.
5 – Is it possible to make a jacket roomier on the sides?
More often than not… the answer is going to be no. The reason is that most suits coming right off the rack don’t have seam allowances for this kind of alteration.
6 – Is it possible to make the jacket slimmer?
In no uncertain terms, yes. If you like your jacket but it’s just a bit too big then you can make this kind of improvement. The alteration costs can be up to $60.
7 – Is it possible to make a jacket longer?
Simply put… no.
8 – Can you chop a jacket so that it’s shorter?
While this can be done, it shouldn’t be done. Why? It can cause an imbalance for the pockets and buttons. However, the cost to do this can be anywhere from $80 to $100, or more.
9 – Is it possible to remove the roll at the back of the neck?
The answer is yes but you need a tailor who is experienced at this. The cost can be anywhere from $50 to $75.
10 – Can business shirts be made slimmer?
Definitely; all you need to do is cut and sew. Shirt sleeves can also be made slimmer. Costs will vary based on what you are looking for. Body: $15 to $30, Sleeves: $10 to $25.
11 – Are you able to make longer shirt sleeves?
This is a silly question but no, it’s not possible unless you have additional shoulder fabric (which in, itself, is silly to have).
12 – Can you make shirt sleeves shorter?
Yes but have a seamstress do this for you. After all, the sleeve must be removed, the fabric cut and then have the sleeve reattached. This can cost you anywhere from $20 to $35 per sleeve.
13 – Should you pay $50 to $100 for alterations on a jacket/suit that was cheap to begin with?
The answer to this final question is yes. Why look for a more expensive jacket to fit your build if you can buy a cheap jacket and have alterations done for less money than buying outright?
Business shirt fabric options
photo by Fern R
When you walk into a men’s suit shop and are ready to make your business shirt purchase (or while shopping online) you may be overwhelmed by how many fabric styles there actually are. While there’s many styles available, don’t let this intimidate you. Something to keep in mind is that although there’s been amazing advancements in fabric technology, when it comes to men’s shirts cotton fabric shirts are still the best. Why?
- First, 100% cotton is a breathable fabric
- Second, it is comfortable for you to wear
- Third, with constant care, your shirt can look its best all the time.
However, if you want something more than just the stock standard cotton business shirts, here are several other fabric material options you can pick from.
Broadcloth – Chances are you’re going to come across a fabric called broadcloth, which was once woven wool but is now using cotton (although it is quite heavy among other shirt fabrics). This fabric can be very smooth like poplin or be twilled. Weights, weaves and textures will vary with this type of fabric. However, it’s a workable fabric for formal, dress and casual shirts.
Oxford – This is one of the more popular fabrics for business shirts. After all, it’s softer but a heavy cloth with a large weave. The majority of these shirts have button down collars (considered a trademark quality). These shirts are either all cotton or a cotton-blend; great for casual or business shirts whether the sleeves are long or short. If you come across Pinpoint Oxfords, it basically means the material is lighter and smoother.
Poplin – Shirts of modern poplins are generally 100 percent cotton (although they used to be designed with a silk blend). Poplin is lighter than the broadcloth and is smoother than the Oxford fabric and is used mainly for formal wear and business shirts. The weights of these types of shirts vary based on the season. Summer shirts are generally light and a bit translucent; winter shirts are heavy but still thin when compared to other shirt weaves.
Twill – Twill fabric is much heavier than pinpoint or poplin material but it’s lighter than Oxford and broadcloth. Keep in mind that twill is similar to Oxford because of its diagonal weave. Twill cotton and cotton-blends make wonderful casual and dress shirts.
Other Shirt Fabrics – Now keep in mind that you’re going to come across some man-made fibers, all of which are tough and inexpensive. However, they don’t breathe near as well as natural fibers. These fabrics can look like the real thing or be completely awful. It’s not uncommon for manufacturers to blend natural materials in with the synthetic material.
Linen – If you always like to iron (and let’s face it… most people don’t), then linen fabric is great for men’s business shirts.
Silk – This fabric material is favored by some for men’s and women’s shirts because it’s a strong natural fiber. It does, however, but it does have some drawbacks:
- Fading when not dry cleaned
- Can stretch out of shape
- Very expensive
It’s not uncommon for men to save the silk material for ties or formal occasion shirts such as weddings, anniversaries, etc.
Something new to the fabric market
You may not know until you go shopping for business shirts and suits but there is a new selection of 100 percent cottons.
- First, the 140 broadcloth is highly desirable, as it has a high thread count and close weave.
- Second, the 100 two-ply broadcloth is closely matched in desire.
- Third, the 80 pinpoint Oxford is two-ply and quite durable; it’s also got a more obvious weave than what you see with broadcloth.
- Fourth, the 50 broadcloth is one-ply; however, it’s durable but lightweight.
- Fifth, you can find easy care or no-iron shirts in broadcloth or Oxford. You can also wear it just out of your dryer.