Finding the perfect dress shirt is a men’s wardrobe essential. A great dress shirt can make a strong impression in professional settings and can boost confidence during a big presentation. A nice dress shirt also provides a versatile option for both formal events and casual occasions—dress it up with slacks or dress it down with jeans, both creating a sharp look. If you’re out shopping for a new dress shirt, you will want to look for a few key elements to ensure you choose a shirt that fits well and makes you look your best. Continue reading our tips to help you find the right dress shirt for you.

When men are looking to buy a dress shirt, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Fit:

   The fit of a shirt can make a major impact in how it looks. It’s important to find a shirt that fits well, as an ill-fitting dress shirt can make you look sloppy and unprofessional. To find a well-fitted shirt, you should look for a shirt that fits well around the neck, shoulders, chest, and waist. Consider the different types of fits, such as slim, regular, and relaxed, which cater to different body types. Try on different fits to see which is the best for your build.

2. Fabric:

   The material of the shirt affects its comfort, breathability, and how it drapes on the body. Popular fabrics include cotton (known for its breathability), linen (known for its lightweight properties, perfect for summer), and blends that might include synthetics for wrinkle resistance and a slight stretch. If opting for cotton, ensure the shirt isn’t too lightweight or see-through, which isn’t appropriate for a professional or formal setting. According to The Wall Street Journal, “For work, poplin won’t do. That smooth, superfine cloth often flirts with transparency.” Try a thicker fabrication, such as a heavier weight cotton twill.

3. Color and Pattern:

   Depending on the occasion, you can consider shirts of different colors and patterns. Solid colors such as white, light blue, and black are versatile and can work for both formal/professional and casual settings. Patterns such as stripes, checks, and micro prints can add a touch of personal style to your outfit, but should be worn depending on the occasion (for example, you probably won’t want to wear a bright orange printed button-up to your work conference!)

4. Collar Style:

   The collar style can affect the shirt's formality and how it pairs with suits and ties. Popular styles include the point collar, spread collar, and button-down collar. According to The Wall Street Journal, “No matter the style, choose a sizable collar that reaches quite high up your neck.” This will help elongate your face and neck for a tall and flattering look.

5. Cuff Style:

   It is also important to consider that cuffs come in various styles, including barrel cuffs (with one or two buttons) and French cuffs (folded back and closed with cufflinks). French cuffs are more formal, and cufflinks are a must-have for a French cuff shirt. A shirt with barrel cuffs is appropriate for both business casual and more formal occasions, while a French cuff shirt should be worn for events.

6. Durability and Care:

   Consider how easy the shirt is to care for and clean (for example, is it machine washable vs. dry clean only?) Some may prefer shirts that are easy to iron or offer wrinkle resistance, while others may be willing to budget more for professional dry cleaning. Additionally, investing in a durable, high-quality shirt may cost more upfront, but when you consider the longevity of the garment, it ends up being the smarter choice in the long run.

7. Price:

   Many men shop on a budget, with some willing to invest more in high-quality shirts, while others may prioritize looking for more affordable options. The Wall Street Journal asked readers what they would pay for a dress shirt and found: “Most mentioned prices between $100 and $200.” You don’t need to break the bank to find the perfect dress shirt, but it’s important to invest in a high-quality shirt that will remain in good condition long-term. Dress shirts with a slightly higher price point tend to use thicker fabrics and have special design details that elevates the style.

If you’re looking for the perfect dress shirt, here at Q.Contrary, we are offering a brand new luxurious option. Introducing the brand Eterna: for over 160 years, Eterna has made shirts and blouses with best-in-class designs. From the sustainable materials to the ultra high-quality craftsmanship, you are guaranteed the best of the best with Eterna.

The Eterna Luxury Shirt offers elegance, confidence, and timeless style. It is a premium non-iron shirt made of 100% cotton twill. The iconic twill has a subtle shine, and it remains wrinkle-free—perfect for long days, from the office to formal events. The collar has a moderate spread, creating harmonious proportions for the wearer, and making this shirt a great option for both professional and business casual occasions. It looks great with or without a tie.

The Eterna Linen Shirt offers airy sophistication. It’s the perfect blend of linen and cotton, offering breathability and cooling properties, perfect for the summer season. The high-quality twill weave contributes to a modern and polished look. The Linen Shirt can be dressed up or down, tucked into slacks or left untucked. This design is incredibly versatile, perfect for daily wear, office wear, or even to summer events. It features a contemporary cutaway collar, which looks great with or without a tie.

Both shirts are high-quality, durable options under $200. The Luxury Shirt is just $155, and the Linen Shirt is $165—you can’t find best-in-class designs at a better price. Come visit the store to experience the shirts in-person, or send us a message and we will help find the perfect shirt for you.

Q. Contrary 3168 East Camelback Road Phoenix, AZ 85016 602.301.6987