Picture this: You’re invited to an event that’s not quite casual but not fully formal. You reach for a shirt, only to realise it’s either too dressy, too loud or something your mom bought you years ago. Sound familiar? Every guy has faced the wardrobe crisis of having too many shirts yet somehow, never the right one. But fret not, dressing well isn’t about owning dozens of options. It’s about having the right six.
Here’s your guide to the essential shirts every man should own to ensure he’s ready for anything, from boardrooms to beach bars.
5 Essential Linen, Cotton, Camp-collar, Oxford Shirts Every Man Should Own for a Stylish, Versatile Wardrobe
1. The Crisp White Oxford
Image credits Instagram.com/hrithikroshan
The backbone of any respectable wardrobe, the white Oxford is the shirt equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. Need to look sharp for a date? White Oxford. Big meeting at work? White Oxford. Semi-formal party where you have no idea what to wear? You get the idea. Even Ryan Gosling swears by it.
How to wear it: Opt for a slim but not-too-tight fit, and roll up the sleeves when you want to dial down the formality without looking sloppy. Tuck it in with tailored trousers for a smart look, or leave it untucked with chinos for a relaxed vibe. Although, nothing quite goes well more than a clean and ironed white oxford untucked with a pair of straight fit denim.
Best for: Work meetings, date nights, semi-formal events.
Our Picks
- UNIQLO Oxford Long Sleeve Shirt
- Armani slim fit oxford business shirt in white
- Brooks Brothers Original Polo Button-Down Oxford Shirt
2. The Classic Chambray
Image Credits - UNIQLO
Think of the chambray as denim’s more sophisticated, lightweight cousin. It brings texture to an outfit without trying too hard and works in almost every setting short of a black-tie event. David Beckham wears chambray like a pro, and if it’s good enough for him…
How to wear it: Buttoned up with chinos for a polished yet relaxed look or layered over a T-shirt for a casual weekend ensemble. If you’re going for classic denim colours like black or indigo, pair it with brown colour bottoms. Additionally, lighter shades of ecru, green, blue should also work.
Best for: Casual Fridays, laid-back evenings, and travel.
Our Picks
- UNIQLO Chambray Overshirt Long Sleeve
- Levis Men Pure Cotton Chambray Relaxed Fit Casual Shirt
- Lacoste Men Slim Fit Cotton Chambray Shirt
3. The Printed Statement Shirt
Image Credits - Instagram.com/ranveersingh
Every guy needs a fun shirt that showcases their personality. Whether it’s florals, abstract patterns or even a slightly questionable holiday shirt, a well-chosen print can be a game-changer. Just make sure you’re aiming for ‘fashion-forward’ and not ‘dad-at-a-barbecue.’
How to wear it: Keep the fit tailored—there’s a fine line between stylish and looking like you raided your dad’s 90s cruise collection. Pair with solid-coloured trousers or shorts to let the print shine. In case of colder weather, pair prints with a plain white undershirt, preferably made out of cotton. Minimal prints also deserve some love, although, pair with more experimental bottoms like pleated brown pants or loose fitting denim trousers.
Best for: Parties, holidays, weekend brunches.
Our Picks
- Bershka Printed short sleeve shirt
- Ted Baker Men White Paisley Shirt
- Polo Ralph Lauren Men Blue Classic Fit Monstera-Print Shirt
4. The Striped Dress Shirt
Image Credits - Instagram.com/vedangrain
A subtle striped shirt is an easy way to elevate your office wardrobe without looking like you just stepped out of a finance bro starter pack. Think Jude Law in The Talented Mr. Ripley—effortless, refined, but never boring.
How to wear it: Go for classic blue-and-white or mix it up with something bolder. Wear it with a blazer or solo with tailored trousers to strike the perfect balance between sharp and effortless.
Best for: Work, formal occasions, business casual settings.
Our Picks
- H&M Regular Fit Poplin shirt
- Brooks Brothers Non-Iron Supima Cotton Striped Dress Shirt
- Ralph Lauren Men Black Bengal Stripes Shirt
5. The Linen Shirt
Image Credits - Instagram.com/iakpataudi
If comfort and effortless style had a baby, it would be the linen shirt. Light, breathable, and undeniably cool, a linen shirt is your best friend when the temperature rises. Think Timothée Chalamet strolling through a Mediterranean summer—easy-going but stylish.
How to wear it: Wear it untucked with chinos or linen trousers for that breezy, holiday-ready look, or layer it over a vest for a laid-back summer vibe.
Best for: Beach trips, tropical holidays, scorching summer days.
Our Picks
- UNIQLO Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
- Andamen Oslo Linen Shirt
- BOSS Linen Long-Length Regular Fit Button-Down Shirt
Wildcard: The Band-Collar Shirt
Image Credits -Instagram.com/varundvn
Slightly unconventional but effortlessly chic, the band-collar (or mandarin-collar) shirt is the underrated hero of modern menswear. It strips away the traditional collar for a minimalist aesthetic that works in both casual and dressier settings.
How to wear it: Button it up for a sharp, contemporary look, or leave the top buttons undone for relaxed sophistication. Works well under a blazer or on its own with tailored trousers. Additionally, cargo shorts, flared pants or creased linen pants should also look great.
Best for: Date nights, when you want to look like you “get” fashion without trying too hard.
Our Picks
- UNIQLO Soft Twill Stand Collar Long Sleeve Shirt
- Emporio Armani Mandarin Collar Cotton Slim Fit Shirt
- Polo Ralph Lauren Men White Custom Slim Fit Featherweight Mesh Shirt
Invest in these six shirts, and you’ll never have to experience the dreaded "I have nothing to wear" moment again. Well, almost never. And while you’re at it, take care of them, nothing ruins a good outfit faster than a wrinkled linen shirt or an Oxford that’s seen one too many careless washes.
Cover and feature image credits - Eros International
