The Ultimate Guide to Men’s Dress Shirts: Fit, Fabric, and Style

Shopping for dress shirts can be confusing with so many options. Let’s break down what really matters when choosing the perfect shirt.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

A well-fitted shirt should feel comfortable while looking sharp. Here’s what to check:

• Collar: When buttoned, you should be able to fit two fingers between your neck and the collar—no more, no less.
• Shoulders: The seam should sit right at the edge of your shoulder. Too wide looks sloppy, too narrow will restrict movement.
• Chest: The fabric should lay flat. If you see pulling or the buttons form an “X” shape, it’s too tight.
• Sleeves: Should end at the base of your thumb when standing straight. When you bend your arm, the sleeve shouldn’t pull back more than an inch.
• Body: You should be able to pinch 1-2 inches of fabric at the sides—not skin tight, but not billowing either.

Choose the Right Fabric

Fabric affects how your shirt looks, feels, and when you can wear it:

• Poplin: Lightweight, smooth, and crisp. Perfect for summer and formal occasions.
• Oxford: Slightly thicker with a subtle texture. Great for business casual and weekend wear.
• Twill: Has a diagonal pattern that creates a softer drape. Comfortable for all-day wear.
• Broadcloth: Very smooth and professional. Ideal for important meetings and formal events.
• Linen: Breathable but wrinkles easily. Best for hot weather casual events.

Our IDEL FASHIONS Collection offers all these fabrics with detailed descriptions to help you choose.

Collar Styles Matter

Your collar should complement your face shape:

• Point Collar: The classic choice that works for most face shapes and occasions.
• Spread Collar: Shows more of your tie knot. Perfect for wider tie knots and broader faces.
• Button-Down Collar: More casual and stays in place all day. Great for active days without a tie.
• Cutaway Collar: Very wide spread for a modern, European look. Ideal for narrow faces.

Remember, a quality dress shirt is an investment that will serve you well for years. Start with versatile colors like white, light blue, and subtle patterns that mix easily with your existing wardrobe.