Every single week, we’re bringing you a curated list of Essentials that should be considered the foundation of every single guy’s wardrobe. While seasons come and go, and with them plenty of fashion fads and it-items, there are certain pieces–such as a robust pair of denim jeans, or a well-cut suit, or a pair of simple sneakers that will always be considered the crucial building blocks of personal style.
This week's essential is the shirt. We’ve rounded up five different styles of shirts that every guy should have in his wardrobe arsenal.
The Dress Shirt
The dress shirt will always and forever be considered the cornerstone of any assuredly refined wardrobe. Every guy, no matter how zany or classic their style is, will need to call on a dress shirt from time to time. Hackett’s Mayfair Shirt is a resolutely classic option, and it’s crafted from a fine Egyptian cotton-poplin by British heritage company Thomas Mason. This piece is tailored for a slim fit and has a structured collar so you can stay slick.
The Overshirt
If you haven’t ever invested in an overshirt, you’ll quickly discover that it will be one of your wardrobe’s hardest working essentials. This versatile necessity is considered a staple for a few good reasons. It’s incredibly easy to dress up or down, it’s the perfect layering piece and it can effortlessly take you from day to night.
This “Big Cord Shirt” from Japanese streetwear label Cav Empt comes in a perfectly oversized silhouette, and it’s constructed from sturdy cotton corduroy making it a high-quality, everyday piece.
The Short Sleeve Button-Up Shirt
The short sleeve shirt is indeed a menswear staple that's crucial to many looks, as well as an item that should be in every man's wardrobe, especially when temperatures start to heat up. While a color-blocked short sleeve is a great place to start, why not make a statement with Stüssy’s “Big Dot Shirt?" Made from breathable cotton, with a distinctive polka dot print – it’s an easy way to spice up a summer ensemble.
The Pullover Shirt
Pullover shirts feature a half placket and they’re designed slightly wider to allow over-the-head dressing with ease. Why is it a staple? It’s part timeless, and part progressive, meshing the DNA of a classic button-down with a streetwear-inspired casual flair. Our Legacy’s “Splash Shawl Zip Shirt” is a solid place to start, and its longer sleeves will help you transition into autumn.
The Flannel Shirt
The flannel shirt will always be relevant, and it’s a staple you just can’t go without. It’s a shirt that’s lived many lives, from being an emblem workwear to a symbol of the grunge uniform – it will work as hard as you do. This long-sleeve cotton gabardine option from Nudie Jeans features a classic check pattern in tones of taupe and black and a spread collar.
For more shopping tips, check out the very best swim shorts to buy right now.
