Construction of a Man’s Dress Shirt—Part two: Trendy Styles
Having previously covered the topic on different weaves preferred in the construction of a man’s dress shirt. Egyptian cotton, known as the undisputed king in shirt fabrics, is the preferred choice of those in the know for centuries. Egyptian cotton fabric is a finely woven fabric that exhibits all the properties a man could want from a garment worn close to the body, good heat & moisture conduction, durability, smoothness, and the ability to take shape when ironed. Sultans Fine Fabrics carries this beautiful luxurious finest Egyptian cotton, in a variety to be astonished. This fabric is the best material suited in the construction of a quality shirt.
Moving along, our next topic covers the different styles / options in dress shirt that is in demand in a fashion-driven market. Your shirt portray a characteristic aesthetic that suits your individual taste. It’s important to keep in mind that the subject of style is very personal and dependent on one’s taste, and as such, this article is meant to work as a guide, a reference of how different variations influence the way a shirt is perceived.
What is a Dress Shirt: A proper dress shirt is a button-up shirt with a collar, long sleeves, and wrist cuffs. It is usually made from a quality Egyptian cotton fabric woven and dyed into various, non-obtrusive patterns and colors. By altering these characteristics style, a dress shirt can either send a message of its wearer, example is he ready for good time, a casual time, or is in a mood for an elegant evening.
Because details matter in any given day, people see the shirt your wear. In the absence of a jacket, the shirt is the most powerful signal you are using to non-verbally communicate with those around you. Your shirt, whether you like it or not, is speaking for you; make sure it’s saying your style.
Dress Shirt Fit: Most men wear dress shirts that do not fit them properly. The problem is that ready-made garments are made to fit many; as a result, they fit no one perfectly. We all compromise somewhere if a shirt fits us in the neck it fails us in the sleeve length; if it fits well in the sleeves, it billows out around the stomach. So the fit matters to a person who wants comfort and style. A well fitted dress shirt should first and foremost be comfortable; this is different for every man. Larger men are usually complimented by a looser fit while petite and thin men are complimented by a more form cut. In general, though, a shirt should:
- Allow two fingers in the collar when buttoned.
- Be tight enough around the wrist so that the cuffs must be unbuttoned to slip them off.
- Have long enough sleeves so that you can raise your arms like wings and not pull the cuffs down the forearm; they should be short enough so that you don’t have more than 1 inch of fabric bunching near the cuff when your arms hang.
- Shoulder points that extend to the end of the shoulder and no farther.
- Have room in the chest and waist to pinch out 1-3 inches of fabric (depending on fit desired).
Whether you’re looking for ready-to-wear alternatives or having a bespoke shirt made especially for you, these guidelines apply to most cases where the shirt’s original essence is kept in mind.
Styles:
1 The Classic Fit: The classic shirt aims to maintain the traditional tailoring silhouette, allowing a comfortable feel. It provides great mobility and features two vents on the back, usually located near the yoke. This is the go-to choice for those with a more classic style who favor comfort over fashion.
2. Slim Fit:The slim fit has been gaining adepts and recognition with a younger audience, more self conscious about their image and aiming to portray a trendier look. Accentuated back darts and a higher armhole stance allow for a shaped look that sits closer to the body, without being skin tight; although it’s commonly associated with casual or fashion shirts, Depending on your body type, this fit might pose some issues as it’s more appropriate for slim individuals, so if you’re on the bulkier side you might want to skip this one — otherwise, go for a stretch fabric to ensure the best fit and comfort.
3. The Modern / Contemporary fit: Probably the most popular alternative on the list, this fit represents the evolution of the shirt pattern to reflect a more contemporary feel. This option sits in between the classic and the slim fit, providing the best of both worlds in what regards comfort and style. A slightly tapered silhouette on the waist, usually making use of small back darts, ensures the success of this much sought all rounder.
4. Extra Slim / Skinny Fit: Skintight shirts are not a flattering alternative for anyone and feel a bit like sailing into uncharted waters — just stay away from them. In this case, not even stretch can save you from looking like you’re about to burst and can hardly move or breathe.
