While t-shirts and shorts can feel like the most comfortable option, there is no comparison to a well-dressed man. NFL player and MLB player, Deion Sanders said it best, “If you look good, you feel good, If you feel good, you play good, If you play good, they pay good”. Adding a shirt collar can make all the difference in your style and overall look. Well-dressed men are seen at another level when it comes to appearances.
75% of Americans think that well-dressed men are more successful in the workplace. While times have changed and a rough appearance has been more widely accepted studies show that dressing well does make a difference. In one study, new job applicants with a polished appearance made 20% more on their starting salary. Besides the possibility of a little discomfort, there is no downside to dressing your best. It is truly surprising how shirts with collars can make such a difference.
Every man should have a few pieces in their wardrobe that make them feel like a million bucks. There is nothing like going out with friends or on a date and having a sense of confidence and male pride.
Style Breakdown: The Dress Code
Before you begin your fashion transformation or at least fashion update – you should consider your dress code needs. The best style for you will still feel like you, just a better-dressed version. It is important to understand that not all styles are appropriate for every event. For example, if you are attending a business meeting you shouldn’t show up in sandals. Being appropriately dressed affects many aspects of your life. How others view you is important, but how you view yourself is equally as important. Shirts with collars can improve your wardrobe and style significantly.
Business Casual
Business casual definitions vary based on work location. But, generally speaking, business casual for men means professional yet relaxed. Darlene Price president of Well Said companies explains, “professional, business-like image while enjoying the advantage of more casual and relaxed clothing”. This means slacks, khakis, polo shirts, and dress shirts are fair game. Be sure to check out what others are wearing to identify the level of “business casual” that is appropriate. Depending on the job position or location, the definition of business casual can vary.
Smart Casual
Smart casual is a newer term in the dress code realm. The guide for smart-casual usually includes button-down shirts with no tie, a polo shirt, well-tailored jeans, dress pants, chinos, etc. With the smart casual look, you can add in an accessory such as a statement watch to give your outfit an elevated look.
Casual
Casual wear is an informal dress code. But, this doesn’t mean you should show up in sweats. Casual attire for men would include jeans, khakis, or chinos. Casual shirts can include a dressy t-shirt, button-down shirt with no tie, flannel shirt, or polo shirt. If you opt for a t-shirt, consider a jacket, blazer, or sport coat to amp up your look. In the casual style you can wear almost any type of shoe, but, steer away from flip-flops or slides.
Business Formal
Business formal is defined as the highest level of professional attire. For a business formal look, you will need a well-tailored suit. Your suit should include a formal shirt such as a button down dress shirt, a tie, and nice shoes. Business formal is usually a great idea for job interviews, in certain job positions, work presentations, etc.
Each of these dress code sections is important to understand. Dressing appropriately for events or work functions is essential to your total style. There is nothing like a man who knows how to dress well. There is a time and place for athleisure styles, but knowing when to dress up and what to wear makes all the difference.
The Best Shirts With Collars Every Man Should Own
Now that you have a solid understanding of different dress code options, you can easily find great shirts to fill any category. Here are the best shirts with collars every man should own.
by Under Armour
Under Armour Men’s Tech Golf Polo
As one of the top performance apparel companies in the world, it is no shock that Under Armour offers one of the best shirts with collars every man should own. The Under Armour Men’s Tech Golf Polo is a classic golf polo with great features. It is made of 84% polyester and 16% elastane. This material was created with anti-odor technology to keep you fresh all day long. It has a solid self-fabric collar and two top buttons. The shirt is a loose fuller cut for all-day comfort. The Under Armour Men’s Tech Golf Polo would look great with golf pants, khakis, shorts, or even dress pants. It is a collared shirt option with a lot of versatility. It can fit within the casual or business casual look, especially in the warmer months. This shirt comes in over 87 colors to truly meet any color need you to have. It is offered in sizes x-small to 4x. It also comes in tall sizes which add 2 inches to the shirt length and sleeve length. This shirt is also a budget-friendly choice at $39. It has also received great ratings at 4.7 out of 5-stars. The Under Armour Golf Polo is an MVP pick for your next collared shirt.
by Amazon Essentials
Amazon Essentials Men’s Standard Regular-fit Cotton Pique Polo Shirt
Looking for a solid choice for a new polo shirt? Look no further. Amazon Essentials offers a Men’s Standard Regular-fit Cotton Pique Polo Shirt. The classic polo shirt look features a collar and button closure. It is 100% cotton and machine washable. This shirt is so comfortable, it doesn’t even have an actual tag but rather a printed neck label. The classic cut pairs well with khakis, shorts, or dark jeans. The soft pique waffle knit of this short sleeve shirt makes this option breathable yet still fitted. This collared shirt option runs in sizes x-small to xx-large. It comes in 28 different color and print options. This shirt is $20 and rated 4.3 out of 5-stars. A fun choice like hot pink paired with classic khakis or dressy golf pants can bring positive attention and adds a pop of color to your sporty look.
by Amazon Essentials
Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-Fit Quick-Dry Golf Polo Shirt
The Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-Fit Quick-Dry Golf Polo Shirt is a great option for your next casual or business casual outfit need. The shirt is 100% cotton and features a collar and button closure. The fabric is lightweight and has a quick-dry fabric that includes UPF 50 sun protection. The shirt is a classic cut and will pair well with khakis, golf pants, or dress pants. The sporty style can help you to achieve a well-dressed but casual look. From the office to the golf course, this shirt will go the distance. This collared shirt choice comes in a whopping 38 colors and prints. Solids, stripes, and prints can be a great way to spice up your look. The cotton shirt comes in sizes x-small to xx-large. It is $17 and rated 4.5 out of 5-stars. Dressing well doesn’t have to break the budget. Options such as the Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-Fit Quick-Dry Golf Polo Shirt are fashionable choices that are also budget-friendly.
by Amazon Essentials
Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-Fit Long-Sleeve Flannel Shirt
For a great fall and winter option, check out the Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-fit Long-Sleeve Flannel Shirt. A flannel shirt is a popular choice for a casual or business casual look. The button down collar helps the shirt to maintain a sense of style while the flannel print brings in the casual aspect. This shirt is a great choice to pair with khakis, jeans, or even specific dress paints. To elevate the look for a business casual need, make sure to select a great dressy boot. A pair of chinos with a Chelsea boot and a flannel can make a great stylish outfit. This shirt comes in 28 different colors and pattern options. From a traditional black and white buffalo check to a dark brown plaid, there is a great option for you. This collared shirt option comes in sizes x-small to xx-large for $26. It is rated 4.6 out of 5-stars. Add the Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-fit Long-Sleeve Flannel Shirt to your wardrobe for an easy and versatile collared shirt option.
by Columbia
Columbia Men’s Bahama Ii UPF 30 Short Sleeve PFG Fishing Shirt
Columbia Sportwear has been a global leader in the active lifestyle since 1938. They offer a wide variety of products. One of their top lines is men’s retail. They have many great options for collared shirts to consider. One great choice is the Columbia Men’s Bahama Ii UPF 30 Short Sleeve PFG Fishing Shirt is the perfect choice for a casual and cool look. The shirt is made of 100% nylon and offers some great features. First, the shirt has vents throughout the shoulders. This creates extra breathability for hot or humid weather. It is made of quick-dry fabric to help you avoid the sweat-stained look. The shirt also has an Omni-shade feature that blocks UVA and UVB rays to keep your skin safe from sun damage. This men’s shirt also features two handy chest pockets for any storage needs. It is a lightweight and relaxed fit that is perfect for the boat. While this shirt is a fishing shirt, it can also be utilized for a casual look. Pair the Columbia Men’s Bahama Ii UPF 30 Short Sleeve PFG Fishing Shirt with khaki shorts for a breezy option. This shirt is offered in 20 different colors and sizes xx-small to 4x tall. The fishing shirt is $50 and is highly rated at 4.7 out of 5-stars by over 17,000 customers.
by Nautica
Nautica Men’s Classic-Fit Short Sleeve Solid Soft Cotton Polo Shirt
The Nautica brand has been a solid choice for menswear since 1983. Designer, David Chu hoped to bring the nautical style to everyday wear. The Nautica Men’s Classic-Fit Short Sleeve Solid Soft Cotton Polo Shirt is a great tribute to David’s vision. The polo shirt is 100% cotton and has two styled buttons for a pulled-together look. This shirt would pair well with khaki pants, jeans, or shorts depending on the needed dress code. This polo shirt comes in 28 different solid color options. It also offers a large range of sizes from x-small to 6x. This shirt is offered at $34.99 and is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.
by Amazon Essentials
Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-fit Short-Sleeve Poplin Shirt
The Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-fit Short-Sleeve Poplin Shirt is a great option for a casual shirt. The collar and button-up style makes it a great casual or business casual option The shirt is made of 100% cotton and is machine washable. Pair this shirt with a pair of dark wash well-fitting jeans for a casual Friday or a night out. You can also pair this option with dress pants for a business casual look. This shirt choice provides great versatility as it comes in 28 color choices. You can choose from plaid, gingham, floral, prints, or solid options. This shirt is offered in sizes extra small to xx-large. This option is available for $18.50 and is rated 4.5 out of 5-stars by over 12,000 reviewers.
by Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein Men’s Dress Shirt Slim Fit Non-Iron Stretch Solid
Calvin Klein is another top brand in menswear. Calvin Klein branded products had over 9 billion dollars in sales in 2019. Calvin Klein is known as a quality brand you can trust. They offer some great dress shirts such as the Slim-Fit Non-Iron Stretch Solid. This men’s dress shirt can function well for a business look when paired with a tie. You can also forego the tie for a well-dressed business casual look. This shirt is 96% cotton and 4% spandex. It is moisture-wicking to keep you cool through tough meetings. The slim fit provides a tapered look, and a spread collar is a modern approach with the tips pointing outwards. The shirt also features an adjustable cuff for a customized fit. This collared shirt is available in 27 different neck and sleeve size options. It also comes in 15 different color options. The Calvin Klein Men’s Dress Shirt Slim Fit Non-Iron Stretch Solid is rated 4.5 out of 5-stars and available for $51.
Accessories To Consider
Any outfit can be immediately elevated with the right accessories. Here are some top accessories to consider adding to your wardrobe.
Watches
A nice watch can say a lot about a man. A watch can show that you’re timely, dependable, successful, and value tradition. They are a great way to accessorize an outfit and come in any color, metal, or shape you desire. A watch can pull together a look the same way a nice necklace or earrings look for women. Watches are a great accessory for your style update.
Socks and Shoes
Nothing ruins a casual or professional look more than bad socks and/or shoes. A well-dressed man goes to sit down and you sneak a peek at white gym socks with old scuffed dress shoes, yikes! This mistake can completely throw off your look. Investing in one great pair of black dress shoes and brown dress shoes is all you need. Consider the wide variety of dress shoes available to you. Dress shoes should be classic and comfortable. Look at options such as loafers, Chelsea boots, chukka boots, oxfords, wingtips, etc. You will also want to make sure you have a few nice pairs of dress socks. Purchase a few different neutral color options such as black, beige, grey, and navy. The neutral options will go with any outfit or shoe color combination you choose.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a great final touch on an outfit. Sunglasses protect your eyes, but they also give a sense of cool confidence. Men’s sunglasses come in many different frame shapes, colors, and materials. Select an option that fits your face and is comfortable. Some great style choices are aviators, wayfarers, club master, round frames, brow bar, etc. Each of these options can pull together your look and give you an additional swagger.
Conclusion
ZZ Top said it best, “every girl crazy ’bout a sharp-dressed man”. A well-dressed man can capture the attention of an entire room. Businessmen spend thousands of dollars on new suits for a good reason. But, being well dressed doesn’t have to empty your piggy bank. Using online shopping platforms such as Amazon can help you to find quality products at an affordable price. The best you is the version that feels good and looks good. Investing in the best shirts with collars every man should own collection will help you to up your style game. Make a few new collared shirts a part of your complete fashion-forward wardrobe.