The shirt – a simple yet stylish staple item for any man’s wardrobe. But why should you stick to just the usual white formal shirt when you can add texture, dimension and colour in a number of ways with a variety of shirt styles?

If you’re looking for a shirt that has a superb fit, a recognisable finish and the class of the most dapperest gent, Hawes & Curtis is a must see. Hawes & Curtis is famous for its quintessentially British menswear and womenswear ranges. With over 100 years of heritage, Hawes & Curtis has a distinguished British past and a promising international future. The brand has stores in Germany and Dubai and has recently launched a German and Australian website. Thanks to its rapid international expansion and prominent online presence, Hawes & Curtis is an internationally recognised brand attracting customers from around the world.

It’s international success left us no option here at High Street Gent than to jump at the opportunity to feature them when they got in touch. Whilst we say thanks for the sample shirt we were sent (shown above) we’re going to run through a few other shirt options that you MUST consider from Hawes & Curtis and how, when and with what you can wear them.

Although there is a lot to consider when it comes to shirts, it’s not as hard as you think when it comes to choosing the right shirt, for the right occasion. Fresh from Hawes & Curtis we’ve pulled together the most common occasions and types of shirt, to guide you through…

FORMAL SHIRTS

Let’s start with the preppy shirt icon. The great thing about the formal shirt is that they’re made from a thicker material than your usual shirt – so perfect for the summer season and you can get away with losing the jacket in the office without looking under or half dressed. A simple white formal shirt under a patterned blazer will not cause you any complaints with your boss. However, there are many colourful styles available which can brighten up what could be considered an average outfit.

CURTIS CASUAL

Check shirts can be pretty versatile, but remember one small factor – the smaller the checks the smarter the shirt will become. So if you want something a little more sartorial choose a gingham or Prince of Wales check. The best jacket styles to wear over a smart checked shirt are either sports jackets or deconstructed jackets with relaxed shoulders teamed with neutral toned trousers and a brown brogue. If you want a more casual look simply wear the shirt with a leather jacket over or a chunky knit cardigan matched with jeans and boots.

FLANNEL/LINEN SHIRTS

Flannel shirts are the best when it comes to keeping warm since they were initially made for farmers and rangers. Their image changed and turned more towards becoming a fashionable shirt in the late 1980s to early 90s with an indie rock band vibe. There are a few ways in which you can wear the flannel shirt: open, over a loose t shirt with slim jeans and trainers for a casual look. Alternatively, button it up under a plain crew neck sweater, chinos and brogues for a smarter look. If a patterned shirt isn’t really something you like to wear then choose a shirt which consists of darker shades, or a more subtle pattern and keep the rest of your outfit fairly minimal.

WEEKEND COLLECTION SHIRTS

Denim shirts have always had a vintage aura about them and a streetwear style. However, you can also work this into a smart daywear look under a blazer if you choose the colours and styles wisely. Granted some offices would still consider the denim shirt a little too casual for work so this is something to consider before stepping out the door. You can create a subtle western vibe with stone washed jeans and a pair of neutral Chelsea or lace up derby boots. The key to teaming denim is to contrast shades e.g. a dark denim shirt with blue jeans or a stone washed denim shirt with dark wash jeans. Just avoid wearing all-denim of the same colour – you don’t want to leave the house looking like Justin Timberlake back in the 00s.

LONG SLEEVED POLO SHIRTS

The casual side of the shirt spectrum, however a practical option for most occasions. The polo shirt is a great ‘no frills’ shirt offered in a variety of colours and best worn with jeans and rugged boots for a casual look. You can also dress them up for the office with a blazer, which again might not be acceptable for some offices but you can make this look a little smarter by combining a checked shirt under the polo shirt and throwing a blazer over the top for a layered winter style.

THE UNBUTTONING…

The red and white pinstripe shirt pictured above was sent to us by Hawes & Curtis as a sample. The smart tailoring and quality of the material does not go unnoticed when wearing one of their shirts. The crisp cuffs and collar really give the shirt an executive feel and keep you looking dapper all day. In the office I’ve received many a compliment on the shirt. It’s a fantastic fit.

It’s important to remember that we’re all different shapes and sizes, and whilst a skinny fit shirt may fit me, it may not you. It’s best practice to every now and again pop by your local tailor and get yourself measured professionally. It’s best to know your neck size, chest and waist to put into practice further a field than just shirts. If it fits well, you’ll look well. Visit here for a size guide put together by Hawes & Curtis.

The most common cuts and fits you’ll come across are extra slim, slim, tailored and classic, be sure to familiarise yourself with what works for you.