Photo: laughinglizard / Flickr

Every wardrobe needs the classic white shirt. It suits everyone, never goes out of fashion, and accentuates your personal style. A crisp white shirt perfectly complements a pair of dark jeans, for an easy smart casual look that works as well in the office as it does on a night out, depending how you wear it. When selecting this staple item, fabric and fit are essential, as are the little details that will make your white shirt stand out. A fashionable shirt makes an effortless statement. Everyone can follow these tips to avoid pesky fitting problems when selecting the right shirt.

Clean cut

Investing in a bespoke shirt which is tailored to your preferences – from fit and style specifications to your fabric preference – is the ideal. But if your budget is tight, make a trip to a well-stocked boutique. Take your time considering the different cuts that will best suit your body type. Try on a few shirts of various styles, and step a few paces back from a full-length mirror to see how they look on you. This will help you choose the best shape, whether it’s the classic cut (loosely fitted), or the panelled style cut (semi-fitted), or the trendy slim fit which hugs the body. A good idea is to bring along a pair each of formal and denim pants to match up with your shirt. This will eliminate those second guesses.

Fabric and colour

Play with different fabrics and see whether they have a stretch to them and how they will feel on your skin. Rub the cloth together to spot any possible pilling that might occur. Then remember there are many different shades of white, including off-white, eggshell white, ivory and alabaster. Choose the colour that will best complement your complexion and hair.

It’s all in the detail

Sit on a high chair if there is one in the dressing room to make sure that the hem of the shirt is long enough – you don’t want it riding up your waist. Inspect the stitching, the quality of the buttons and be sure they’re securely cross-stitched. Ensure that the collar and cuffs are reinforced so you will get more wear out of your shirt. The button stand (placket) should fasten flawlessly. Now straighten and bend your raised arms to determine if the cuff length is right for you. If you’re opting for a double cuff, ensure there’s room for your watch.

Express yourself by choosing a classic shirt with an edge. Find detail in the collar, the cuffs, the stitching, the hemline, the seams or even one odd button. If you’d prefer to be more understated, then perhaps detail in the trim would interest you – something hidden on the inside of the cuffs, the collar, the yoke (back seam) or the hem would pique interest.

The shirt is a staple piece which can so easily be dressed up or down – dressed up equals savvy while a few buttons left undone few exudes swagger. It’s an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple.

Tags: fashion