Not so long ago, there were few things more vociferously loathed in menswear than the unassuming short sleeve button up shirt. This men’s separate has long been the butt of many a sartorial joke.

Though this garment might for some still bring to mind a certain global fast-food chain’s uniform or the questionable wardrobe choices of provincial clubbers circa the early aughts, the short sleeve button up has recently been given a whole new lease of life thanks to reinterpretations from designers and high-street retailers alike.

“We need to show the short-sleeved shirt some love,” says Sam Kershaw, buying manager at online menswear emporium Mr Porter. “It’s time to cast aside any dated associations with IT technicians, missionaries, and Homer Simpson, and to remind ourselves that a shirt with short sleeves can be just as stylish as its longer-armed brother.”

In recent years, and in line with menswear’s general shift toward all things casual, tropical prints, geometric patterns, flowing silk and Cuban collars have made arm-bearing shirts the natural choice for warmer weather. Because they’re not just stylish, but practical too. As the heavy heat of summer hits, a shorter sleeve keeps you adequately aerated – meaning no more unsightly sweat patches ruining your carefully considered look. That’s a win-win.

In a hurry? Check out our top picks for short sleeve button-up shirts, or keep reading for the full rundown on best brands, buying considerations, and how to style this summer staple. 

Our Pick Reiss Holiday Linen Slim Fit Shirt Alongside high-quality basics, Reiss excels at on-trend designs and cuts that stray from the beaten path.

BUY NOW Runner Up Corridor Banana Hawaiian Short Sleeve Punchy prints, high quality construction, and breathable fabrics are what you can expect from on-trend, NYC-based brand Corridor.