6 Shirts Every Man Should Own
Because your wardrobe is only as strong as its foundation.

When it comes to building a versatile wardrobe, shirts are the unsung heroes. They frame your face, anchor your outfit, and set the tone—whether you're dressing for a boardroom, a date, or a weekend away.

And yet, most men only reach for a few on repeat—and often, the wrong ones.

Here’s how to fix that.

Below are six essential shirt styles every man should have on rotation—plus a few trusted brands that consistently deliver on quality, fit, and feel.

1. The Solid-Colored T-Shirt

Try: Emporio Armani, Rag & Bone

This is your off-duty essential—but don’t underestimate it. A well-made tee in black, white, or navy can carry an entire look when styled right.

Pair it with jeans, white sneakers, and a suede bomber for casual confidence. Or layer it under a lightweight suit in warmer months for a modern, refined twist.

Pro tip: Start with high-quality basics in black, white, and navy. Once those are locked in, add richer neutrals like olive, charcoal, or camel.

2. The Formal Dress Shirt

Try: Reiss, Giorgio Armani

Every man needs a crisp white dress shirt that fits impeccably. This is your go-to for formal meetings, events, and evenings that call for structure and polish.

But here’s the power move: wear it untucked with dark jeans and loafers for a relaxed, elevated look. Timeless, minimal, and versatile—it always pulls its weight.

3. The Oxford Button-Down

Try: Brooks Brothers, J.Crew, Club Monaco

A classic Oxford shirt strikes the perfect balance: structured but not stuffy.

It works just as well under a blazer for business-casual settings as it does worn solo with chinos for everyday ease. The button-down collar and heavier fabric give it staying power throughout the day—and the year.

4. The Chambray Shirt

Try: Mr. Porter, Purdey, The Tie Bar

Chambray is what happens when denim gets dressed up.

Lighter than denim but more refined than your average casual shirt, it’s perfect for smart-casual moments. Layer it open over a tee for weekend edge, or tuck it into trousers with a blazer to keep it sleek and modern.

Clean. Intentional. Effortlessly masculine.

5. The Polo Shirt

Try: Sunspel, Theory, J.Crew

A fitted polo is one of the easiest ways to look instantly pulled together.

It’s the refined middle ground between a tee and a dress shirt—and with the right fabric and fit, it reads as quiet luxury. Reach for navy, white, or grey, and style it with drawstring trousers, shorts, or even under a soft-shouldered jacket.

It’s the kind of piece that does more than you think.

6. The Linen Shirt

Try: Luca Faloni, Bloomingdale’s, Uniqlo

Lightweight, breathable, and quietly elevated—the linen shirt is essential for warmer days, vacations, and outdoor gatherings.

Go for soft, sun-faded colors like ivory, pale blue, or stone. Roll up the sleeves, leave a couple buttons undone, and pair it with tailored shorts or linen drawstrings for an effortless, vacation-ready vibe.

This is the shirt that says: “I’m relaxed—but still intentional.”

Bottom Line:

If your wardrobe is the toolbox, these six shirts are your everyday essentials.

Each one brings something different to the table—whether it’s structure, ease, or versatility. And when you have the right shirts in rotation, getting dressed stops being a chore... and starts feeling like confidence on autopilot.

Want help refining your shirt game—or overhauling your wardrobe entirely?
Let’s build a style strategy that works for your lifestyle and your goals.