In This Article, You’ll Find:
- Oxford Button-Down Shirts
- Dress Shirts
- Polo Shirts
- Flannel Shirts
- Chambray Shirts
- Linen Shirts
- Overshirts
- Henley Shirts
- Camp-Collar Shirts
- Undershirts
- Short-Sleeve T-Shirts
- Long-Sleeve T-Shirts
- Denim Shirts
- Knitted Shirts
- Band-Collar Shirts
There’s a big difference between grabbing your favorite T-shirt every time you get dressed and understanding all the types of shirts you need to create a well-rounded wardrobe. Our fashion editors have done lengthy testing of literally every kind of shirt to help you curate the right mix to handle any situation, dress or casual. And we’ll let you in on a little secret here: Having the right shirt can make or break a look.
Whether you’re headed to yet another wedding or you’re sipping a spritz on the Amalfi coast, you need plenty of options, from classic button-downs to laid-back tees and cozy flannels. Our experts are here to guide you through a tested and reviewed selection of the 15 best styles. Have your pick below.
Oxford Button-Down Shirt
If you’re looking for a versatile wardrobe staple that will easily transition from your nine-to-five to after-work drinks, you need an oxford button-down. Rumor has it that the style, which has been around since the early 19th century, was inspired by English polo players. Oxford button-down shirts typically feature a durable basketweave fabric and classic button detailing up to the collar.
Dress Shirt
The dress shirt is an essential garment, but don’t let the word “dress” intimidate you. Modern dress shirts are designed for comfort. They’re made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or nylon blends and pair effortlessly with tailored pants or casual jeans.
Polo Shirt
Let’s be honest, the polo shirt has become quite polarizing. But scratch every association it has with frat boys, finance bros, and the like. While we understand your hesitance to reintroduce this classic piece into your wardrobe, trust us when we say the polo shirt is back, baby, and better than ever.
Rhone Delta Pique Polo
Now 20% Off
Flannel Shirt
Disclaimer: Flannel shirts are no longer reserved for wearing in the woods or while driving a big truck. When the weather cools down, they become indispensable. Available in many styles and fabrics—some softer and lighter, others with muted or bold patterns—flannel shirts all have one purpose: to provide extra warmth when you need it most.
Chambray Shirt
You probably know this by now, but just in case, let’s make one thing very clear right off the bat: Chambray shirts are not the same as denim shirts. Chambray is woven differently, giving it a lighter, more breathable feel. The result is a relaxed yet practical look that exudes effortless style. Chambray shirts pair perfectly with sleek chinos or your favorite jeans, offering a laid-back appearance that doesn’t compromise on sophistication.
J.Crew Chambray Shirt
Now 31% Off
Linen Shirt
Few fabrics embody summer quite like linen. Its tactile nature lets it drape elegantly around your body, providing a sensual feel when styled properly, wrinkles and all. Linen ages beautifully with each crease and fold, and it keeps you cool even when the weather is not. The best part about linen? It can be dressed up or dressed down, so whether you’re going for that all-inclusive-resort feel or a bohemian vibe, you’ll always look put-together.
Banana Republic Castello Shirt
Overshirt
Picture your perfect date. Is it April 25, when the weather is not too hot and not too cold and all you need is a light jacket (if you know, you know)? An overshirt is the ideal outer shell for such an occasion. Crafted with materials thicker than a regular shirt but lighter than a traditional jacket, this style will be your go-to layering piece for transitional seasons.
Henley Shirt
Consider the Henley the T-shirt’s cooler older brother. Distinguished by its classic scoop neck and three-button placket, this type of shirt has a comfortable, effortless style that makes it suitable as a top layer or a base layer. Experiment with a jersey cotton Henley for those scorching summer days, or choose a thermal knit to layer under your heaviest winter gear. The world is your oyster; try them all.
Abercrombie Essential Henley Tee
Camp-Collar Shirt
The camp-collar shirt is chic and easy to wear and will carry you through your spring and summer days. We love how effortlessly this option can be styled—whether you’re doing up all the buttons and putting on some pleated pants or casually leaving it open with a tank top underneath. And we especially love how many different fabric options camp-collar shirts are available in for endless versatility.
Fair Harbor Clothing Casablanca Shirt
Undershirt
Even though no one technically can see it, the undershirt should not be overlooked. It will ensure you look and feel your best without becoming a sweaty mess. And while you may think you can grab any old white shirt and call it a day, actual undershirts are designed to be lightweight and moisture wicking and will help spare you from embarrassing pit stains. But if that’s not enough, they’ll also keep your fit in place without bunching or restricting your movement.
Hanes Performance Undershirt 5-Pack
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Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
Chances are, you’ve worn a short-sleeve shirt before. Chances are, you’ve worn a lot of short-sleeves before. So while we don’t need to wax poetic about why this style is so damn good, there are a few things that we want you to keep in mind. When looking for the right short-sleeve T-shirt, seek one that blends versatility and comfort. Invest in a piece made from a lightweight, breathable fabric, such as cotton or nylon, and find one that is well-fitted and allows for a free range of motion.
Cozy Earth Short Sleeve Shirt
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Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
With its straightforward silhouette and neckline variety, the long-sleeve T-shirt is a must-have in every man’s closet. To maintain a versatile collection, we suggest having at least five of these bad boys on deck—hell, make it six. But whether you prefer solid colors or graphic designs, crew necks or V-necks, cuffed sleeves or uncuffed, you’ll find endless options with this classic piece.
Denim Shirt
Let’s talk about denim shirts, aka western shirts. I know what you’re thinking: Isn’t that style reserved for movie cowboys and dudes who live in Montana? The answer is not anymore—westernwear has expanded beyond the ranch. This style is not only a great way to replace your old go-to oxford and flap-pocket shirts, but it also allows you to upgrade your wardrobe to include options that are bold, unapologetic, and durable. After all, there’s a reason why ranch hands have worn this look for so many years. So go ahead and step into your cowboy era, and look good while you’re at it.
Wrangler Iconic Snap Shirt
Levi’s Barstow Shirt
Now 32% Off
Knitted Polo Shirt
A knitted shirt has the delightful ability to make you look both put-together and approachable, not stuffy—and if you don’t want to look like either of those things, we suggest going with a different style. The best knitted shirts typically come in lightweight fabrics, frequently embellished with bold patterns, and have a texture-heavy look that adds dimension to any outfit.
Theory Knit Polo
Now 11% Off
Marine Layer Ethan Cardigan
Band-Collar Shirt
A silhouette rooted in menswear lore, the band-collar shirt is just like any old button-down you already have in your closet, absent one important detail: the whole damn collar. And we know what you’re thinking: Won’t I look like a hot priest in this type of shirt? Well, it’s a little yes and a little no. When you button a band-collar shirt to the top, it creates a sleek line that might give off a bit of an “our father” vibe, but if you leave it entirely unbuttoned, it creates a cool and casual style.
Todd Snyder Band Collar Shirt
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Choose the Right Type of Shirt?
It all comes down to style, occasion, fabric, and personal preference. For formal events, opt for an oxford button-down or dress shirt. For a casual look, choose a classic tee or camp-collar shirt. Regardless of the type you choose, you want to ensure the fabric matches your setting. For the warmer months, find one in lightweight linen or cotton. In the winter, you may want a heavier shirt like a cozy flannel or overshirt. But whatever the season, make sure the type of shirt you buy has the proper fit for your body, whether that’s slim, athletic, tall, or relaxed.
What Are the Most Popular Types of Shirts for Men?
The term “popular” can be tricky, as shirt preferences vary by occasion. For those working nine-to-five jobs, traditional styles like button-downs and polos are likely favorites. But if you work from home and your commute is to the couch, relaxed styles like tees and undershirts are undoubtedly in heavy rotation. That being said, camp-collar shirts, denim shirts, and knitted polos are trending with our editors, and if you invest in one of these pieces, you’ll find out it’s for a good reason.
Why You Can Trust Esquire
We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s roundups is carefully chosen by our fashion and e-commerce teams.
When it comes to different types of shirts, you can rest assured that we’re hand-selecting styles that we’ve personally tried, tested, and loved, along with options that the rest of our stylish colleagues here at Esquire endorse. We’ve had to go through a lot of trial and error, and these shirt styles are simply the best.