In the vast fashion world, the humble shirt is a must-have in everyone’s wardrobe, transcending different seasons and occasions. In this article, we are going to explore all the common types of shirts and see how each style speaks to a particular setting and function. We will categorize them based on material and design, helping you to find the preferred one most quickly.
Classification by Material
Chambray Shirt
Chambray shirts are made from chambray fabric. Originating from the French town of Cambrai, the fabric gained popularity for its breathable yet durable qualities, making it ideal for workwear and, eventually, fashion wear.
Chambray and denim, while often confused with one another due to their visual similarities, possess distinct differences. Chambray is characterized by a plain weave, using single strands of colored and white thread, resulting in a lighter, softer fabric with a unique sheen. This construction makes chambray shirts ideal for both warm and cool seasons. Denim, on the other hand, employs a twill weave (intertwining double strands of thread into a more diagonal pattern). Its texture is heavier and rugged, which is more suitable for cooler days.
Chambray’s lightweight nature allows it to drape and breathe better than denim, making it suitable for a wide range of clothing beyond traditional shirts, including dresses and lightweight jackets. Its smooth texture and fluid drape contribute to chambray’s adaptability for smart-casual looks.
Cotton Shirt
A cotton shirt is a classic and essential piece of clothing made from the natural fibers of the cotton plant. They are known for their ability to absorb moisture and remain comfortable against the skin, making them ideal for a wide range of climates and activities.
The origin of cotton as a textile dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its use in ancient civilizations such as India, Egypt, and the Americas. The material’s natural properties, such as its breathability, ease of dyeing, and ability to withstand high temperatures, contribute to its popularity in the textile industry.
The fabric’s durability and ease of care have made cotton shirts a go-to choice for everyday wear as well as special events. You can pair them with jeans or complement a suit for more formal occasions.
Denim Shirt
Originally crafted for cowboys in the late 1800s, denim shirts served as a protective layer under regular clothing, and they quickly gained popularity for their ruggedness and utility.
The history dates back to the creation of denim in the French town of Nîmes. Due to their durability and resilience, denim garments were initially favored by sailors and laborers in Europe. They were synonymous with the rugged lifestyle of cowboys, miners, and workers who valued the fabric’s toughness and practicality. The transition of denim from workwear to a fashion staple is marked by its adoption by iconic figures in the 1950s. This era cemented denim’s status as a symbol of rebellion and freedom.
Modern denim shirts are a symbol of a laid-back style, and they can seamlessly transition from a casual to a more formal look. Pairing a denim shirt with dressy pants and shoes or even a blazer can elevate its appearance for formal events. Conversely, combining it with light-wash jeans or shorts and sneakers offers a relaxed, everyday look. This versatility makes denim shirts a personalized fashion statement that can reflect individual tastes and personalities.
Besides, denim shirts function beyond mere casual wear. Their ability to age beautifully adds charm. Each wash and wear will add a unique character to a denim fabric. Therefore, wearers can use them as a canvas for personal expression, and designers and brands can continuously reinvent the designs of denim shirts.
Flannel Shirt
Flannel fabric, initially made from carded wool or worsted yarn, is now also made from cotton or synthetic fiber. It’s recognized for its softness, achieved through a process called napping, and is used in various garments, including the iconic tartan clothing.
The history of flannel shirts is deeply intertwined with the working class, particularly in Wales, where it first gained popularity among farmers. The fabric’s journey from Wales to American fashion is marked by its adoption by the working class for its ability to withstand harsh working conditions. In the United States, flannel was popularized by brands like Carhartt.
Today, flannel shirts function far beyond their original utilitarian purpose. They have transcended social gaps and gender, celebrated for their versatility and comfort.
While flannel shirts share some similarities with classic dress shirts in terms of structure, their differences lie in the material and casual style. Classic dress shirts are typically made from smoother, lighter fabrics and are designed for formal settings. In contrast, flannel shirts are recognized for their softness, warmth, and often plaid patterns. They are more suited for casual wear or layering during colder months.
Gingham Shirt
Gingham is a lightweight, plain-woven fabric known for its checkered pattern, traditionally made from cotton. This distinctive fabric features a grid of two colors, typically with one color on the warp yarns and the other on the weft, creating a pattern that looks the same on both sides.
Gingham’s origins can be traced back to the 17th century. It was initially introduced as a striped fabric from India. By the mid-18th century, it had evolved into the checked or plaid patterns we recognize today. The term “gingham” is believed to have derived from the Malay word “genggang,” meaning “striped.”
Gingham shirts boast several great features. Their reversible and dual-colored nature offers a classic yet flexible design, allowing for both casual and more dressed-up looks. The fabric’s lightweight quality and cost-effectiveness have contributed to its enduring popularity in both men’s and women’s fashion. Iconic moments like Dorothy’s dress in “The Wizard of Oz” have cemented gingham’s place in popular culture, showcasing its timeless appeal.
Jersey Shirt
A jersey shirt is essentially a garment made from jersey fabric, which is a single-knit cotton, wool, or synthetic material. The term “jersey” originally described a style of knit with the fabric’s smooth side facing outward and the piled or textured side facing inward. This construction contributes to the jersey shirt’s comfort and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for athletic activities.
The evolution of the jersey shirt is deeply rooted in the history of sportswear. Initially, sports jerseys were simple linen or cotton garments, evolving with the introduction of synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex in the 20th century. The revolution gave athletic wear more lightweight, durable, and moisture-wicking properties.
Modern jersey shirts are versatile and can be styled in numerous ways. They are a staple in casual wear, easily paired with jeans or shorts for a relaxed look. Moreover, the smooth texture of jersey fabric makes it suitable for printing, allowing for customized designs and team apparel.
Linen Shirt
A linen shirt is made from natural fibers of the flax plant. This fabric is celebrated for its comfort and coolness in hot weather.
One of the greatest features of linen is its moisture absorbency, which is significantly higher than that of cotton. It can quickly wick away moisture from the body. Also, linen is known for its resilience and longevity. It will become softer and shinier with each wash, unlike cotton which may weaken over time.
In terms of styling, linen shirts offer a versatility that suits a range of outfits and occasions. From casual beach wear paired with shorts to more formal looks under suits, linen shirts can elevate any ensemble. Their relaxed crumpledness embodies a distinctly European insouciance, perfect for achieving a look of effortless elegance. Additionally, linen blazers can be paired with dark trousers for a business-appropriate outfit that still beats the heat.
Oxford Shirt
Oxford shirts are known for their unique Oxford cloth and button-down collar.
The fabric of the Oxford shirt, known for its unique basket-weave pattern, was first developed in Scotland. This weave combined two yarns woven together, resulting in a durable yet breathable material ideal for the active lifestyle of university athletes and later for everyday wear. The Oxford shirt’s button-down collar is also a great feature of this type of shirt, with two little buttons designed to prevent the collar from flapping in the face during a game.
Brooks Brothers, the venerable American clothing brand, played a pivotal role in the Oxford shirt’s journey from athletic fields to mainstream fashion. In 1896, they introduced the Oxford-cloth button-down shirt to the American market. The shirt’s versatility allowed it to be paired with both suit trousers and jeans, making it a fixture of the “preppy” look associated with American Ivy League style.
Today, the Oxford shirt remains largely unchanged from its original design. It has become a beloved component of the fashion wardrobe across the globe and has endured through changing fashion trends.
Polyester Shirt
Polyester shirts are crafted from a synthetic fabric known for its durability and versatility. Introduced to the American public in 1951, polyester was initially marketed as a miracle fiber for its ease of care, wrinkle resistance, and affordability.
One of the greatest features of polyester shirts is their resilience. They’re highly durable, resisting wrinkles and maintaining their shape over time. Additionally, polyester’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties make it suitable for activewear, keeping you dry and comfortable during physical activities.
In terms of styling, polyester shirts can adapt to a wide range of outfits. They are particularly favored in the production of sportswear but are also found in dress shirts and casual tops. The fabric’s ability to blend with other fibers enhances its appeal, allowing for a variety of textures and fabric qualities that can suit different occasions and preferences.
Silk Shirt
A silk shirt is a luxurious shirt choice made from silk, a natural fiber known for its smoothness and sheen. It is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
Originating from ancient China, silk has a storied history that spans thousands of years. Legend credits Empress Leizu with discovering silk when a cocoon fell into her tea and began to unravel. The Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes connecting China to the Mediterranean, symbolizes silk’s significance in global trade, facilitating cultural exchanges between the East and West.
Nowadays, designers often incorporate silk into collections, experimenting with colors, prints, and cuts. For formal events, a silk dress shirt adds a layer of sophistication to suits and tuxedos. In contrast, a relaxed, button-down silk shirt pairs perfectly with casual trousers or jeans for a smart-casual look.
Classification by Design and Style
Aloha Shirt
Aloha shirts are characterized by their short sleeves, floral patterns, and relaxed fit. They are a symbol of Hawaiian leisure and culture, making their way into the mainstream American wardrobe.
The greatest features of Aloha shirts lie in their colorful designs, usually featuring floral patterns, Polynesian motifs, or tropical landscapes. The fabric is typically lightweight, making it perfect for warm climates. The shirt’s design, with its open collar and loose fit, offers a blend of comfort and style that has appealed to a wide audience, from beachgoers to celebrities.
Historically, Aloha shirts represent a blend of cultural influences, initially popular among tourists for their exotic appeal. Major labels such as Kamehameha and Kahala were instrumental in popularizing these shirts in the 1930s. Also, designers like Alfred Shaheen elevated the Aloha shirt with high-quality productions. The shirts’ integration into the workplace was formalized with the inception of Aloha Week and Aloha Fridays, promoting a casual yet professional dress code that has influenced casual Friday practices globally.
Today, Aloha shirts differ from traditional dress shirts in their casual design, colorful patterns, and the cultural story they tell. Unlike the more formal dress shirt, which is often plainer and designed for business or formal events, Aloha shirts embrace a laid-back, colorful vibe, making them suitable for casual settings.
Bodysuit Shirt
Bodysuit shirts are form-fitting garments that cover the torso and crotch, often snapping at the bottom. Their greatest features include a seamless fit that eliminates bunching or shifting, often seen like traditional shirts tucked into bottoms. Bodysuits provide a smooth silhouette, making them ideal undergarments for layering or as standalone tops that pair beautifully with high-waisted pants, skirts, and shorts. They’re crafted from a variety of materials, including cotton, spandex, lace, etc.
The origin of bodysuits traces back to the early 20th century, initially serving dancers for their flexibility during performances. Over the decades, they transitioned from dancewear to mainstream fashion. In the 1980s, bodysuits found their place in workout wear, and by the 1990s, they became popular in hip-hop and R&B fashion thanks to their sleek, body-conscious appeal.
Recent fashion trends have seen bodysuits in various designs, including those with intricate lace and bold cutouts. They can be styled under blazers for a polished look, paired with denim for a casual day out, or worn with high-waisted pants and skirts for a night out.
Camp Shirt
Camp shirts (also known as “Cuban collar shirts” or “cabin shirts”) are known for their notched lapel-like collars. They are also characterized by short sleeves, a straightforward placket front opening, and a straight hemmed bottom that falls at hip level.
These shirts’ features make them a favorite for warm weather and casual settings. They usually come in plain, single-color fabrics (although duo-tone bowling shirts and print-patterned aloha shirts are also popular variations). The loose, airy construction allows for maximum ventilation, and the unique camp collar permits the shirt to transition smoothly between a casual daytime look and a more sophisticated evening attire.
Their history traces back to 19th-century Filipino and Cuban styles. Cuban migrants introduced them to the US in the 1950s and ’60s, during the exodus after the Cuban Revolution. The style is similar to the Cuban Guayabera and the Hawaiian Aloha shirt. It provides a cool alternative to the more formal dress shirts and combines practicality with leisure and freedom.
Crop Top
Crop tops are short shirts that expose part of the midriff. They stand out for their ability to accentuate the waistline and offer a bold fashion statement.
Initially popularized in the 1940s as part of swimwear, crop tops gained prominence in the 1960s amidst the sexual revolution, embodying a sense of liberation and rebellion. The 1980s and 1990s saw them become a staple in pop culture, worn by icons like Madonna and Britney Spears. The trend revived in the 2010s, influenced by 1990s vintage fashion, and remains popular today.
Crop tops fit into various outfit styles. Whether it’s a simple cotton crop tee or a lacey cropped blouse for a night out, crop tops offer endless styling possibilities. Their ongoing evolution in fashion highlights their enduring appeal and versatility as a wardrobe essential.
Dress Shirt
Originally served to absorb sweat and protect outer garments in the 17th century, a dress shirt today features a crisp and structured appearance. Unlike casual shirts that might boast a more relaxed fit, dress shirts offer a tailored silhouette designed to contour the body. This tailored fit ensures the shirt looks impeccable when worn under suit jackets or blazers, preventing any unwanted bunching or sagging.
The fabric of a dress shirt also plays a significant role in its identification. Dress shirts are often made from high-quality materials like cotton, linen, or silk blends. They exhibit a smooth, refined texture that contributes to their polished look.
Additionally, dress shirts feature buttoned cuffs, which can range from simple barrel cuffs to more sophisticated French cuffs. French cuffs, requiring cufflinks, elevate the formality of the shirt, making it a preferred choice for gala events, formal dinners, and weddings.
Epaulet Shirt
Epaulet shirts are characterized by decorative shoulder straps, initially signifying military rank and now as a statement accessory.
The history of epaulets stretches back to the late 17th century in France, originally serving a practical purpose by holding shoulder belts in place and indicating military rank. Over time, they evolved into a symbol of status and hierarchy within military uniforms. By the 18th century, their design became more elaborate, often featuring metal plates and braiding to denote the wearer’s rank more clearly.
In today’s fashion, epaulet shirts have become a versatile element in men’s and women’s wardrobes. The epaulets on these shirts can be made from flexible metal, such as brass, and maybe spiked or studded, blending seamlessly with various styles.
Grandad Collar Shirt
A grandad collar shirt lacks a traditional fold-down collar. Its stand-up collar style is more minimalistic compared to the collars of more traditional shirts.
The origins of these shirts are varied. Some stories trace back to a New York housewife in the 1820s, while some stories say this type of shirt finds roots in military wear. Nevertheless, grandad collar shirts challenge conventional shirt designs by omitting the collar, which typically frames the face and holds a tie.
Styling the grandad collar shirt offers numerous possibilities. It can be worn buttoned up for a sleek look, or left partially unbuttoned for a more relaxed vibe. For business settings, the shirt can be paired with formal trousers or a blazer. For more laid-back occasions, they can match with jeans or casual pants to complete a casual style.
Henley Shirt
A Henley shirt is a collarless pullover with a round neckline and a placket of two to five buttons.
The history of the Henley shirt is deeply rooted in practicality and sport. Originating in the 19th century as men’s undergarments in England, they were quickly adopted by rowers in Henley-on-Thames for their comfort and ease of movement. These shirts became further popular through crew racing traditions. Over time, as Britain’s Industrial Revolution advanced, the production of Henley shirts expanded.
Initially crafted from cotton for comfort and durability, modern Henley shirts are available in a range of fabrics, including synthetics for added stretch and merino wool for warmth. They also come in different sleeve lengths, including long, short, and three-quarter sleeves. The diversity in materials and sleeve lengths allows Henley shirts to be worn in various climates and occasions.
Mandarin Collar Shirt
A mandarin collar is a short, stand-up collar style. The collar has a straight length, and its edges slightly overlap or meet at the center, leaving a little gap.
This design is closely associated with the traditional attire in China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. Initially, this style was part of the Han Chinese influence, with high collars closed by interlocking buttons, a feature that laid the foundation for the Chinese knot buckles. Over time, the standing collar became an important part of Chinese dress.
Mandarin collar shirts combine the classic traditional Chinese element with different types of shirts. The linen shirt, for instance, adopts this collar to offer a laid-back vibe. The absence of a fold-down collar keeps the neckline simple and clean. Similarly, silk or high-quality cotton shirts equipped with mandarin collars present a sleek alternative to the conventional tie-and-collar combo.
P.S.
Some people may feel confused when distinguishing mandarin collar shirts from grandad collar shirts. Actually, their collars do have differences. The grandad collar shirt is characterized by a band around the neck and often includes a button on the band itself. On the other hand, the mandarin collar shirt features a short stand-up collar that either overlaps slightly or meets at the center without a button. The collar usually has straight or rounded edges. Also, unlike the grandad collar shirt, the mandarin collar shirt may exhibit a slight gap at the center of its collar.
Overshirt
Overshirts are versatile garments that straddle the line between shirts and jackets. The most notable features of overshirts include their robust construction, utilitarian design with pockets for practicality, and heavier fabric choices such as flannel, corduroy, or denim.
Initially, overshirts were crafted to serve the needs of working-class men, including French railway workers and engineers. Made from robust fabrics like cotton drill or moleskin, these garments were ideal for enduring long hours of physical labor while providing ease of movement. Over time, overshirts have transitioned from their utilitarian roots to a staple in casual and smart-casual wardrobes. Their design makes them a versatile choice for various occasions.
Peasant Blouse
A peasant blouse is a loosely fitted garment inspired by traditional European attire, characterized by flowing fabric and a gathered or elastic neckline. Its features also include the breathable fabric that makes it ideal for warm climates and the intricate embroidery that often adorns the neckline, sleeves, or hem. The design flatters various body types and often offers a feminine vibe.
With roots in Romania, the peasant blouse dates back to 5500-2750 BCE. It was initially a garment for peasant women. The blouse featured intricate embroidery symbolizing protection, fertility, and the wearer’s aspirations. Its global fame soared when Romanian royalty and artists like Matisse embraced it.
These blouses often incorporate natural fabrics like linen and soft cotton. Earth tones dominate, while embroidery and floral patterns add a touch of whimsy. The sleeves may be soft and ruffled or adopt a bell shape, enhancing the blouse’s romantic, bohemian vibe.
Poet Shirt
Poet shirts, characterized by their loose fit, ruffled or lace fronts, and billowing sleeves, are inspired by Romantic period attire. These shirts blend the elegance of aristocratic dress with the practicality of workers’ attire, making them a unique piece in historical and contemporary fashion.
Historically, poet shirts trace back to the 17th and 18th centuries, originally worn by men as an undergarment or a standalone item in less formal settings. Over time, they came into popular culture, especially as part of the bohemian and romantic movements. The traditional elements of ruffles and lace are retained in modern interpretations of poet shirts.
Today, poet shirts function across a spectrum of styles, from formal attire to everyday casual wear. Their historical connotations of creativity and freedom make them a favored choice among those looking for artistic flair.
Polo Shirt
Polo shirts are a quintessential piece in men’s wardrobes. Characterized by their distinct collars, short sleeves, and a placket neckline with two or three buttons, polo shirts offer a versatile and timeless appeal. Unlike the traditional turn-down collar of a dress shirt, polo shirt collars are typically made from a ribbed knit fabric that helps them maintain their shape and stand up around the neck. This ribbed knit collar is soft yet durable, designed to lie flat against the body, and often features a slight roll at the edge.
The origins of the polo shirt trace back to the sport of polo in the late 19th century when polo players in India started attaching buttons to their shirt collars to keep them from flapping during play. However, the modern polo shirt owes much of its design to French tennis legend René Lacoste. In the 1920s, seeking more mobility on the tennis court, Lacoste created a short-sleeved, loosely-knit piqué cotton shirt with an un-starched, flat, protruding collar. It was an instant success for its breathability and freedom of movement. The added functionality of a longer back hem (often called “tennis tail”) keeps the shirt tucked in during play.
Today, polo shirts serve multiple functions beyond the sports fields. Their breathable fabric and relaxed fit make them suitable for golf courses, casual offices, social outings, and everyday wear.
Rugby Shirt
A rugby shirt is a durable garment designed for the physically demanding sport of rugby. This type of shirt was first worn by players at Rugby School, marking the beginning of a uniform that would become iconic in the sport. The traditional rugby shirt is known for its heavy-gauge cotton fabric, short or long sleeves, a stiff collar, and rubber buttons designed to come undone rather than pop off during the game. It usually has horizontal stripes or “hoops” and, in some cases, a large ‘V’ around the neck.
The fashion-oriented rugby shirts retain characteristic features such as the stiff collar, long sleeves, and the quintessential horizontal stripes or solid colors with contrast collars. However, they are designed with everyday wear in mind rather than for the rugby field. The shirt can be easily paired with jeans for a casual look or layered under a blazer for a more polished outfit. Its broad appeal spans different age groups and fashion sensibilities, from streetwear enthusiasts to those favoring a more classic preppy look.
Tank Top
Some may take a tank top as a kind of undershirt, not a type of shirt. In this article, we take it as a shirt because it fits snugly into our colorful spectrum and it is not only designed to be worn under other garments.
Tank tops are sleeveless shirts with wide armholes and a deep neck, often made from light, stretchy fabrics. One of their greatest features is the breathability and freedom of movement, ideal for hot weather or physical activities. The design minimizes fabric use, allowing better air circulation and reducing sweat. Tank tops also serve as a canvas for self-expression, available in various colors, prints, and styles, from basic solids to intricate patterns.
The history of tank tops traces back to the early 20th century, originally designed as undershirts. In the 1930s and 1940s, tank tops began appearing in American cinema, often associated with villainous characters. This period also saw the garment colloquially referred to as “wife-beaters” due to its depiction in film. Post-war, they transitioned into mainstream fashion, influenced by athletes and celebrities who popularized the style.
Nowadays, tank tops are prominent in gym wear, allowing for a full range of motion during workouts. In fashion, designers blend materials and cuts, making tank tops suitable for diverse occasions, from casual outings to more formal events, when layered appropriately. The adaptability of tank tops makes them a key piece in creating complex outfits.
T-Shirt
T-shirts are a type of shirt named after the “T” shape with short sleeves. Their necklines are often round, and they are typically made from cotton. One of their greatest features is their adaptability to various fashion styles, from casual to semi-formal. They’re also highly breathable, ideal for warm climates or physical activities.
T-shirts come in a multitude of substyles, each offering a unique look and feel. The necklines play a crucial role in defining their styles, each of which is:
- Crew Neck T-Shirt: The most common T-shirt style with a round neckline.
- Scoop Neck T-Shirt: Has a deeper, circular neckline than a crewneck for a more relaxed look.
- V-Neck T-Shirt: Features a V-shaped neckline, offering a slightly dressier look.
- Boat Neck T-Shirt: Also known as a bateau neckline, it has a wide neckline that runs across the collarbone.
- Square Neck T-Shirt: Features a square-shaped neckline, offering a modern and geometric aesthetic that frames the face and neckline differently than the more common round or V-neck styles.
- Sweetheart Neck T-Shirt: Characterized by a heart-shaped neckline that dips down in the center, the sweetheart neck offers a feminine look, accentuating the décolletage.
- Cowl Neck T-Shirt: Includes a draped, loose neckline that adds a touch of elegance and fluidity to the garment. This style is more common in sweaters but can also be found in T-shirt forms, providing a unique, stylish twist on the classic tee.
- Turtleneck T-Shirt: Characterized by its high, close-fitting collar that folds over and covers the neck. This turtleneck style can be applied to both sweaters and T-shirts. While traditionally associated with sweaters for their warmth and coverage, the turtleneck design is also popular in lighter long-sleeve T-shirts. The term “turtleneck” can refer to both the specific style of the high, folded collar and the garment itself.
Additionally, there are other substyles with distinct features:
- Pocket T-Shirt: A T-shirt with a small chest pocket.
- Graphic T-Shirt: Embellished with printed designs, logos, or text, making for expressive casual wear.
- Burnout T-Shirt: Treated with a chemical process to create sheer patches for a textured effect.
- Compression T-Shirt: Tight-fitting, designed to support muscles during physical activities.
- Ringer T-Shirt: Has contrasting color bands on the collar and sleeves, echoing vintage or retro styles.
- Raglan T-Shirt: Recognizable by its sleeves, which extend in one piece fully to the collar, leaving a diagonal seam from underarm to collarbone, often in a contrasting color.
- Long-Sleeve T-Shirt: Simply a T-shirt with long sleeves, fitting for cooler weather.
- Cap Sleeve T-Shirt: Features a sleeve that covers the shoulder without extending under the arm, offering a more feminine look.
- Tie-Dye T-shirt: Created by twisting, folding, and tying the fabric, then dyeing it in vibrant colors. While commonly associated with T-shirts, the tie-dye technique transcends many types of shirts, such as long-sleeved shirts and tank tops.
Tunic Shirt
Tunic shirts are a modern adaptation of the ancient tunic. They are characterized by their loose-fitting silhouette and elongated length, often extending to the mid-thigh. This type of shirt combines the practical aspects of traditional tunics with the casual, effortless vibe sought after in today’s fashion.
These shirts initially served as essential attire in ancient Rome, Greece, and Mesopotamia. The classic tunic stretched from the shoulders to the knees or just below. The cloth was often crafted from a single piece of fabric or two rectangular pieces joined together. The simple design made tunics popular for both men and women in ancient times.
Modern tunic shirts offer an effortless option for creating chic and comfortable outfits. They are suitable for plus-size fashion due to their long-line silhouette that flatters any figure. Pairing tunic tops with jeans, leggings, or skirts allows for various outfits that can suit any personal style or occasion.
Tuxedo Shirt
Tuxedo shirts are formal dress shirts designed specifically for wear with a tuxedo, featuring distinct characteristics like a formal collar, decorative studs, and often French cuffs. They are essential for achieving a polished formal outfit when wearing a tuxedo, contributing to overall elegance and sophistication.
Historically, the tuxedo itself has origins in the late 19th century, with the tuxedo shirt made from matching fabrics and colors evolving to complement the formal jacket and trousers. Today, the function of tuxedo shirts extends beyond traditional black-tie events. While the classic white tuxedo shirt remains a popular choice, modern variations and colors are available to match different tuxedo styles and personal preferences.
Distinct from regular dress shirts, tuxedo shirts may feature unique elements like pleated fronts, bibs, and wingtip collars, designed to elevate the formal look. These features and the choice between buttons or cufflinks allow for customization of one’s formal appearance.
Wrap Top
Wrap tops are a type of shirt with a front closure that wraps around the body, secured with ties, buttons, or snaps. This construction accentuates the waist and offers a flattering V-neckline.
The wrap top has a rich history, with its origins linked to the early 20th century when Elsa Schiaparelli introduced the first wrap dress. The style gained immense popularity in the 1970s thanks to Diane von Furstenberg’s iconic wrap dress. From this, the wrap top evolved, maintaining the essence of its predecessor but offering more versatility for different occasions.
Wrap tops can be styled in numerous ways. For casual outings, pairing them with high-waisted jeans or shorts offers a laid-back yet chic look. For formal occasions, wrap tops can also be elevated with sleek skirts or tailored trousers, complemented by high heels. Their adaptability extends to seasonal wearability; they’re comfortable for summer and can be layered during colder months. However, they also have their own challenges. Issues may arise with fit over the bust, the potential for the V-neckline to fall open, and the ties of wraps being cumbersome.
Final Words
Alright, we’ve journeyed through different types of shirts, exploring various styles from the vibrant Aloha to the sophisticated wrap top. Each type reflects different cultures and fashion eras. Whether you’re drawn to casual flair or formal elegance, there’s a style for every occasion and taste.
Got a favorite shirt style that’s your go-to? Or thinking about which size is your perfect shirt size? Here are some other tools that may be helpful → [How to Choose the Perfect T-shirt Size] [How to Dress for My Body Shape] [How to Match a Pink Designer Shirt].
