Oxford Cloth

Oxford cloth is usually more durable than most fabrics due to its symmetrical basketweave where one yarn may cross two yarns. Originally developed for sportswear and not formalwear, Oxford cloth is a staple in traditional American button-down polo shirts.  

Fit

Regular fit

Regular fit dress shirts usually have fuller sleeves, relaxed armholes, and a generous cut and room through the chest and waist. It can also be translated as a full-cut fit or classic fit. 

Slim fit 

A slim fit is exactly that  – slim fitting. Designed to fit close to the body, they are usually tapered through the midsection and waist. 

Modern fit 

The modern fit is firmly between the classic/regular fit and the slim fit. With a slightly tapered silhouette, it creates a trimmer look than the classic fit without sacrificing comfort. The armholes are usually higher and the sleeves have some room but are not too wide. 

Color

White

You can’t go wrong with a classic white dress shirt — unless you are prone to spilling condiments on yourself. But overall, you will need a solid white dress shirt for all the black-tie events you may have in your life. 

Black 

A black dress shirt is perfect for when you’re not really wearing a jacket or suit. Black is sleek enough on its own and will easily lift you from casual to formal by just being itself. 

Navy 

Another classic dress shirt color, wearing a navy dress shirt is a very modern style move. Instead of just going with either black or white, going navy will keep you fresh without the fear of experimenting with a whacky color. 

Fun Colours 

Our advice when going with a dress shirt that falls outside the white, black, and navy spectrum is to keep it closer to the pastels and soft colors – not necessarily a vibrant and saturated hue. Lavender, baby blues, soft pinks, and others can be a fun pop of color to your formal attire.