The best men's dress shirts for men are a cornerstone of men’s fashion, serving as a versatile garment that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a business meeting, or a casual outing, the right dress shirt can elevate your look and make a lasting impression.
Choosing the right dress shirt involves more than just picking a color or pattern. It’s about understanding the nuances of fabric types, fits, and the occasions you’ll be wearing them for. From formal events to casual Fridays at the office, the perfect dress shirt can make or break your outfit. We delve into the specifics of what makes a dress shirt stand out, including the quality of stitching, the type of collar and cuffs, and the overall craftsmanship.
Whether you’re looking for a shirt that offers maximum comfort during long workdays or one that provides a sharp, tailored look for special occasions, our guide covers it all. We also explore the latest trends in men’s dress shirts for 2024, such as sustainable fabrics and innovative designs that cater to the modern gentleman.
With a focus on both style and functionality, our guide ensures that you find a dress shirt that not only looks great but also feels great to wear. So, get ready to elevate your wardrobe with our comprehensive reviews and expert recommendations.
Top Picks for Every Gentleman's Wardrobe
- Best for Versatility: J.VER Men’s Dress Shirts
- Best for the Environmentally Conscious: Neem London Recycled Italian White Popover Shirt
- Best Men’s for Summer Elegance: Aurélien White Linen Seaside Shirt
We begin our roundup of best men’s fashion with three top-tier dress shirt options:
- J.VER Men’s Dress Shirts: Known for their soft stretch fabric that seamlessly transitions from formal to casual.
- Neem London Recycled Italian White Popover Shirt: Eco-friendly option that marries modern design with sustainability.
- Aurélien White Linen Seaside Shirt: Breezy summer wardrobe staple.
We’ve got your great shirt needs covered for all seasons and reasons.
Best for Timeless British Elegance: Charles Tyrwhitt Shirts
Price: $45 - $110
Specifications:
- 100% organic cotton
- Available in classic, slim, and extra-slim fits
Pros:
- Timeless British elegance
- Wide range of fits for diverse body types
- Sustainable high-quality materials
Cons:
- The price point may be higher compared to budget options
Wearing a Charles Tyrwhitt shirt is akin to embracing England’s rich sartorial history. Their range of fits, including classic, slim, and extra slim, ensures that every gentleman can find his perfect match. Each shirt spun from 100% organic cotton, represents the brand’s commitment to quality and the environment.
While their price tag may reflect their luxury status, owning a Charles Tyrwhitt is an investment in a garment that’ll last you through the seasons and the shifts in men’s fashion. These are among the best men's dress shirts available, combining timeless style with exceptional quality.
Rating:
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 5/5
- Sustainability: 5/5
Best for Budget-Conscious Professionals: Van Heusen Dress Shirts
Price: Affordable range
Specifications:
- Sharp appearance
- Comfortable wear for office settings, casual settings, and dinners
Pros:
- Stylish without breaking the bank
- Versatile for various occasions
Cons:
- Some concerns about fabric thickness
Van Heusen dress shirts are an ideal choice for those seeking dapper looks in men's fashion without a hefty price tag. They balance style and comfort, being equally at home in the office as they are during a night out. While the fabric may not be the thickest on the market, its affordability and style are more than make up for it, especially for those just starting to build their professional wardrobe.
Rating:
- Price: 5/5
- Design: 4/5
- Fabric Quality: 3/5
Best for Distinctive Style: Paul Smith Shirts
Price: Mid to high range Specifications:
- Bold prints
- Unique color combinations, including light blue
Pros:
- Distinctive and avant-garde style
- Adds personality to any wardrobe
Cons:
- It may not be suitable for traditional office environments
For those unafraid to make a statement, Paul Smith shirts are an excellent choice. Their distinctive bold prints and unique color combinations inject personality into an otherwise monochrome wardrobe. They may not be the go-to for conservative office attire, but for creative settings or after-hours, they’re perfect for standing out in a crowd.
When it comes to the best men's dress shirts, Paul Smith offers a unique blend of style and quality that caters to the modern man looking to make a bold statement.
Rating:
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 5/5
- Versatility: 3/5
Best for Swedish Craftsmanship: Eton Shirts
Price: Starting at $129
Specifications:
- Premium materials and construction
- Produced in Romania with special contracts
Pros:
- Impeccable craftsmanship
- Acute attention to detail
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point
Eton shirts, known for their meticulous attention to detail, epitomize Swedish craftsmanship in men's fashion. With production grounded in Romania, the brand leverages special contracts that ensure quality through its own supply of logistics and machinery.
While the starting price tag of $129 might make you pause, the investment is justified by the durability and sophistication that Eton brings to the table.
Rating:
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 5/5
- Quality: 5/5
Best for Luxury Heritage: Turnbull & Asser Shirts
Price: Luxurious pricing
Specifications:
- Bespoke quality
- Exclusive fabrics
Pros:
- Renowned British shirtmaking heritage
- Exquisite craftsmanship
Cons:
- Premium price may not be accessible to all
Boasting over a century of history in British shirtmaking, Turnbull & Asser shirts reflect luxury heritage. Their Jermyn Street flagship store stands as a symbol of tradition and excellence in craftsmanship. The best men's dress shirts from Turnbull & Asser feature exclusive fabrics and bespoke quality that don’t come cheap, but they do promise a level of sophistication that few other shirts can match.
Rating:
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 5/5
- Heritage: 5/5
Best for Modern Tailoring: Thomas Pink Shirts
Price: Mid-range Specifications:
- Innovative colors and fabrics
- Shop on Jermyn Street
Pros:
- Tradition meets innovation
- Unique aesthetic choices
Cons:
- Limited availability after a few years of absence
Blending traditional tailoring with a modern twist in men's fashion, Thomas Pink shirts strike the perfect balance. They’ve listened to their customers and have expanded their offerings to include a range of colors and fabrics that push the envelope of men’s fashion. After a brief hiatus, the brand has returned with a presence on London’s famed Jermyn Street, signaling a new chapter for the storied label.
Rating:
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 4/5
- Innovation: 5/5
Best for American Classic: Ralph Lauren Dress Shirts
Price: Wide range
Specifications:
- Meticulous tailoring
- Versatile designs
Pros:
- Iconic American style
- Casual to chic versatility
Cons:
- Premium lines can be costly
Ralph Lauren's best men's dress shirts encapsulate the American classic style. With meticulous tailoring and versatile designs that can take you from casual to chic, these shirts are suitable for nearly any occasion. While the brand’s Polo shirt has become a symbol of sophistication, the premium lines can carry a price tag that reflects this status.
Rating:
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 5/5
- Versatility: 5/5
Best for Heritage American Style: Brooks Brothers Dress Shirts
Price: Starting at $140
Specifications:
- Range of fits
- Premium quality
Pros:
- Symbol of American fashion elegance
- Tailored to various body types
Cons:
- Higher starting price point
As an icon of heritage American style, Brooks Brothers brings a sophisticated edge to men’s fashion. With a variety of fits available, their dress shirts cater to traditional, slim, and extra-slim preferences. The entry price of around $140 signals a commitment to premium quality that’s been the brand’s hallmark for years.
Rating:
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 5/5
- Fit Variety: 5/5
Best for Personalized Fit: Hugo Boss Formal Shirts
Price: Starting at $98
Specifications:
- Slim fitting
- Elegant cutaway collars
Pros:
- Contemporary and personalized fit
- Ideal for special events and casual events
Cons:
- Some customers find them overpriced
Those who prefer a sharp, personalized fit may find their match in Hugo Boss's best men's formal shirts, with slim-fitting options and elegant cutaway collars that cater to the modern gentleman. While opinions on their pricing vary, with some considering them overpriced, others find the quality justifies the cost, especially when snagged on sale. These shirts are known to sculpt a sleek silhouette that’s tailored to individual body shapes, making them a go-to for special events.
Rating:
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 5/5
- Fit: 5/5
Best for Customization: StudioSuits Custom Dress Shirts
Price: Starting at $39
Specifications:
- Made-to-measure
- A wide array of customization options
Pros:
- Personalized fit
- Affordable customization
Cons:
- Adjustments may be necessary for a perfect fit
StudioSuits elevates customization in men's fashion with made-to-measure dress shirts, enabling you to express your personal style. With a vast selection of fabrics, collar styles, and cuffs, the options are virtually limitless. Starting at an accessible $39, these shirts provide a tailored solution without the bespoke price tag.
Rating:
- Price: 5/5
- Design: 4/5
- Customization: 5/5
Decoding the Dress Shirt Dilemma
Details are paramount when selecting the best men's dress shirts. The fit should complement your body, neither too tight that it restricts movement nor too loose that it looks baggy. With an array of types available, from cuff variations like a barrel or French cuff to fits such as slim or regular, it’s all about finding what resonates with your personal style and comfort.
Fabric quality plays a significant role, and the less ‘stuff’ like pockets or embellishments a shirt has, the more formal it looks. Don’t forget to consider the collar style; whether it’s a classic button-down or an elegant spread collar, it should work seamlessly with your tie.
Mastering the Art of Fit
Knowing how a dress shirt should fit is crucial to exuding confidence in men's fashion. Brands like Eton and Ralph Lauren offer a spectrum of fits, including:
- Classic
- Contemporary
- Slim
- Super slim
To cater to different body types and preferences, we offer a variety of shirts tailored for each unique body type. While Slim Fit shirts are often recommended for a balanced office look, Super Slim Fit might be the choice for those seeking a closer silhouette, though they might restrict movement.
Classic Fit is ideal for those who prioritize comfort with a more relaxed cut. Remember, the right collar fit allows for ease of movement and comfort, especially when paired with a necktie. Trying on a dress shirt is always your best bet to ensure a perfect fit, as it gives you a practical sense of how the shirt will look and feel in real-life scenarios.
Fabric Finesse – Choosing the Right Material
The choice of fabric for your best men's dress shirt is as important as the style. You’ll want materials that offer comfort, such as:
- the soft and naturally dyed fabrics found in Thomas Pink collections
- the non-iron treatment on Eton shirts
- the wrinkle-resistant properties of Van Heusen
Durability, ease of care, and optimal comfort are also paramount. These features offer convenience and longevity.
The weave of the fabric contributes to the shirt’s aesthetic and functional properties, with options like Oxford for its softness and versatility, and Poplin for its minimal ironing needs. Opt for breathable and comfortable fabrics that also perform well, such as the four-way stretch and wrinkle resistance of the Mizzen+Main Leeward Dress Shirt, ensuring you stay cool and sharp throughout the day.
Summary
To wrap it up, the perfect dress shirt is a balance of style, comfort, and fit in men's fashion. Whether you’re drawn to the British elegance of Charles Tyrwhitt, the budget-friendly sophistication of Van Heusen, or the personalized touch of StudioSuits, there’s a shirt out there for every occasion and every gentleman.
Remember to pay attention to the details, from the fit that flatters your form to the fabric that feels good against your skin. With the variety of options available in 2024, your wardrobe is set to be both timeless and on-trend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are slim-fit men's dress shirts appropriate for all body types?
Slim-fit men's dress shirts are not suitable for all body types. It's essential to choose a fit that feels comfortable and complements your specific body shape. For a more muscular or fuller figure, regular or athletic fits might be a better option. So, it depends on your body type.
Can a dress shirt be worn without a tie?
Yes, you can definitely wear a dress shirt without a tie by leaving the top button undone for a more casual look. It's suitable for a range of occasions.
Is it worth investing in a custom dress shirt?
Yes, investing in a custom dress shirt can be worth it for the personalized fit and the opportunity to select custom details that reflect your style. You'll get a shirt that's uniquely tailored to your preferences.
How do I know if a shirt collar fits properly?
You'll know a shirt collar fits properly if you can comfortably insert one or two fingers between the collar and your neck, allowing enough room for a necktie without being uncomfortable.
Are non-iron or wrinkle-resistant shirts really low-maintenance?
Yes, non-iron or wrinkle-resistant shirts are designed to make care easier, saving you time on ironing and ensuring a crisper look throughout the day. So, they are indeed low-maintenance.
