Written by Tiffany Mclean, veteran stylist at Suits & More
Suits & More has been dressing men in coordinated menswear since 2008, shipping from Newark, NJ. We have fitted thousands of customers across walking suits, dress shirts, hats, and accessories - and we put that experience into every guide we write.
How to Choose Men's Dress Shirts: The Complete Guide to Fit, Fabric, and Collar Style
Choosing the right men's dress shirt comes down to three decisions - fit, fabric, and collar style. Get those right and your shirt works with everything from a men's walking suit to a crisp blazer. Get them wrong and even an expensive shirt will look off.
At Suits & More, the shirt is never an afterthought. It is the layer closest to your skin and the canvas your entire look is built on - whether you are heading to Sunday service, a special event, or an important meeting. This guide breaks down every decision so you can shop with clarity and confidence.
The Fit Spectrum: Slim, Modern, and Full Cut Explained
A well-fitting shirt should feel comfortable without excess fabric bunching at the waist or pulling at the buttons. Here is how the three main fits compare, and which body type each one is best suited for.
| Fit Type | Collection | Cut Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slim Fit | Stylara Collection | Tapered waist, higher armholes | Lean or athletic builds, modern silhouette |
| Modern Fit | Core Collection | Clean taper, slightly relaxed | Most body types, versatile everyday wear |
| Full Cut | Regent's Line | Extra room in chest, waist, and sleeves | Broader builds, maximum comfort, conservative look |
- The Slim Fit (Stylara Collection): These shirts are tailored closer to the body. Featuring higher armholes and a tapered waist, they are ideal for men with leaner or athletic builds who want a streamlined, modern silhouette. These slim fit dress shirts look particularly sharp when paired with designer blazers for men.
- The Modern Fit: This is the gold standard for versatility. It offers a slightly more relaxed feel than a slim fit while maintaining a clean, tapered shape that works for most body types.
- The Full Cut (Regent's Line): Designed for maximum comfort, the Full Cut - or classic fit - provides extra room in the chest, waist, and sleeves. These classic fit dress shirts are the go-to choice for a conservative aesthetic or for those who prefer more breathing room. We also carry select styles in big and tall dress shirts within this line.
Material Matters: Microfiber and Cotton Blends
The fabric of your shirt determines its breathability, wrinkle resistance, and how it holds up over a long day. For professional dress shirts, we focus on materials that look sharp from morning to evening.
Microfiber Performance
Many of our shirts, including the Regent's Line, use high-quality microfiber. According to the Fabric Link Textile University, microfiber fabrics are woven from fibers finer than one denier - making them exceptionally breathable, soft, and moisture-wicking. For all-day wear, this translates to real comfort that holds up through an afternoon service or a long business meeting. Microfiber also resists wrinkles better than traditional wovens, making it a smart choice for travel or long office hours.
Cotton-Rich Blends
For a structured, crisp look, cotton-rich blends are difficult to beat. They provide a high-end feel and a matte finish that looks polished under fashion suits for men. These blends offer the classic appearance of cotton with added durability - meaning your shirt holds its shape wash after wash.
Collar Chronicles: Spread vs. Point
The collar frames your face and dictates what kind of neckwear you should use. Choosing the right collar can balance your features and set the tone for your entire outfit. According to GQ's shirt collar guide, your collar choice should complement both your face shape and your preferred tie knot.
- The Spread Collar: This style features collar points that are spread further apart. It is the ideal choice for larger knots, like the Full Windsor. It projects an air of sophistication and works well for men with narrower faces. It is the perfect match for our wide selection of neckties.
- The Point Collar: This is the most traditional and versatile option. The points are closer together, making it perfect for a sleek, tie-less look or a narrower tie knot. If you want a shirt that can handle any occasion, the point collar is your best starting point.
How to Pair Your Dress Shirt With the Rest of Your Look
A great dress shirt works hardest when the rest of your outfit is coordinated around it. Here is how we approach the full look at Suits & More.
When wearing your shirt with a men's walking suit, the shirt is already part of a coordinated set - the color and pattern are chosen to work together. When building a custom look, pair a solid-color shirt with a patterned blazer, or a textured shirt with a solid suit to keep the outfit balanced.
For a complete, polished finish, finish the look with a coordinated men's fedora or dress hat. Jazz-era style has always been about the full picture - shirt, suit, hat, and accessories working as one coordinated statement.
Style Tips and Care
To keep your men's formal shirts looking their best, always follow the care label. Most microfiber and cotton blends benefit from a cool wash and a light steam. When wearing a dress shirt with a suit, ensure about half an inch of the shirt cuff shows past the jacket sleeve for a polished finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between slim fit and classic fit dress shirts?
A slim fit shirt is tapered closer to the body with higher armholes and a narrower waist, designed for leaner or athletic builds. A classic fit (also called full cut) provides extra room through the chest, waist, and sleeves for a more relaxed, comfortable feel.
What fabric is best for a dress shirt?
It depends on the occasion. Microfiber is best for all-day comfort and wrinkle resistance - great for travel or long events. Cotton-rich blends give a crisper, more structured look that photographs well and holds a pressed appearance.
What collar style is best for a tie?
A spread collar works best with larger tie knots like the Full Windsor. A point collar works well with a narrower four-in-hand knot or can be worn comfortably without a tie at all.
Can I wear a dress shirt with a walking suit?
Yes - at Suits & More, walking suits are sold as coordinated sets that include a matching shirt. The shirt and pants are designed to work together so you always have a complete, polished look without guesswork.
What should I look for in a dress shirt for church?
Look for a fabric that stays fresh through a long service - microfiber is ideal. A moderate fit (modern or full cut) allows comfortable movement. Pair with a coordinated suit and a dress hat for a complete Sunday Best look.
Ready to upgrade your rotation? Explore our full collection to find your perfect fit from the Stylara and Regent's lines today. We offer free shipping on all orders over $75.
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