How to Wear a Dress Shirt Casually: A Guide for Men from La Mode Men’s

When we think of dress shirts, we often picture them being worn in a formal setting, perhaps with a suit and tie. But dress shirts can also be worn casually, and there are a variety of ways to style them for a more relaxed look. In this article, we’ll explore how to wear a dress shirt casually, including the types of dress shirts to look for, how to accessorize them, and what to pair them with.

Types of Dress Shirts

When choosing a dress shirt to wear casually, it’s important to consider the fabric, fit, and style. Here are a few types of dress shirts to look for:

Oxford Cloth: Oxford cloth dress shirts are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down. They’re made from a basket weave fabric that’s soft, durable, and comfortable to wear.

Chambray: Chambray dress shirts are a lightweight option that’s perfect for warmer weather. They’re made from a plain weave fabric that’s often cotton or linen.

Linen: Linen dress shirts are another great option for warmer weather. They’re made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that has a casual, relaxed look.

Patterned Shirts: Patterned dress shirts can add some interest to a casual outfit. Look for shirts with subtle patterns like gingham or stripes.

Accessorizing Your Dress Shirt

To dress down your dress shirt, consider leaving a few buttons undone at the collar. This will create a more relaxed, casual look. You can also roll up the sleeves for a laid-back vibe.

When it comes to accessorizing, keep it simple. A watch or bracelet can add some interest without overwhelming the outfit. Avoid wearing a tie or pocket square, as these are typically associated with formal wear.

Pairing Your Dress Shirt

Dress shirts can be paired with a variety of bottoms for a casual look. Here are a few options to consider:

Jeans: A dress shirt paired with jeans is a classic casual look. Opt for dark wash jeans for a dressier vibe, or light wash jeans for a more relaxed look.

Chinos: Chinos are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down. Pair them with a dress shirt for a smart-casual look.

Shorts: Dress shirts can be worn with shorts in the summer months. Look for shorts in a neutral color like khaki or navy to keep the focus on the shirt.

Sweaters: Dress shirts can also be layered under sweaters for a cozy, casual look. Opt for a lightweight sweater in a neutral color like gray or beige.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to wearing a dress shirt casually, it’s all about finding the right balance between dressed up and dressed down. Look for dress shirts in casual fabrics like oxford cloth, chambray, and linen, and consider leaving a few buttons undone at the collar for a relaxed vibe. When it comes to pairing your dress shirt, jeans, chinos, shorts, and sweaters are all great options. And remember, accessorizing should be kept simple, with just a watch or bracelet to add some interest.