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The Best Types of Shirts for Men to Have a Well-Rounded Closet

Three stylish men modeling different types of shirts.
Van Heusen/Hanes/Alimens & Gentle

A well-rounded closet is essential for everyone, including the modern man. You don’t want to be invited somewhere interesting only to be caught unprepared by the lack of variety in your wardrobe, do you?

Of course not. That means you need to know all the different types of shirts for men so you can stock up on the shirt types you need. This ensures you’re prepared for every scenario.

Having the right types of men’s shirts can make all the difference in your style and comfort. It also greatly impacts how others perceive you. In this guide, we will explore the different types of shirts that belong in every man’s wardrobe.

Oxford Button-Down

Three men in different blue button-up shirts.
Alimens & Gentle/MGWDT/MUSE FATH

The Oxford button-down shirt is a timeless men’s dressy casual classic. It features a button-down collar and is typically made from a breathable and slightly textured cloth. These shirt types are available in various colors and patterns, making them versatile for different occasions.

An Oxford button-down shirt is one of the best shirt types for men because it’s so versatile. It strikes the perfect balance between casual and dressy, making it suitable for both work clothes and social events. It’s comfortable, easy to style, and never goes out of fashion.

Alimens & Gentle Men's Oxford Shirt

Choose from over 40 colors and patterns.

Wear it with chinos or jeans for a smart men’s dressy casual look, or pair it with a blazer and dress shoes for a more formal appearance.

MGWDT Men's Oxford Button-Down Shirt

Enjoy the wrinkle-resistant fabric so you always show up at your best.

These men’s shirts are perfect for business casual settings or a casual night out.

MUSE FATH Men's Oxford Dress Shirt

100% cotton material will keep you comfortable and polished.

Polo Shirt

Gray, navy, and black polo men's shirts.
Amazon Essentials/Fresh Clean Threads/Hanes

The polo shirt is characterized by its short sleeves, ribbed collar, and buttoned neck opening. These men’s shirts are typically made from a knitted cotton material or a blend of fabrics, making them both comfortable and sporty in appearance.

Polo shirts are the epitome of modern casual sophistication. They offer a relaxed yet polished look, making them perfect for a wide range of occasions. Their versatility allows you to transition from day to night effortlessly.

Pair your polo shirt with shorts or khakis and a pair of boat shoes for a laid-back summer style.

Fresh Clean Threads Navy Torrey Polo for Men

This polo is designed to fit your body in the most flattering ways.

Alternatively, you can tuck it into chinos or slacks for a more refined appearance.

Amazon Essentials Men's Regular-Fit Quick-Dry Golf Polo Shirt

Designed for comfort and professionalism, this polo shirt will keep your outfit classy.

Suitable for golf outings, casual Fridays, or brunch dates, your polo shirt may quickly become your shirt of choice.

Hanes Men's Short Sleeve X-temp Polo

The X-temp technology is designed to help keep you cool and sweat-free.

Short-Sleeve Shirt

Three men modeling short-sleeved shirts.
Visive/INTO THE AM/Amazon Essentials

Short-sleeve shirts are typically made from lightweight materials. They feature a relaxed fit and short sleeves, making them perfect for warm weather or layering clothes in colder seasons. The right T-shirt can be worn for many different dress codes.

Short-sleeve shirts are essential for staying cool and stylish during hot summer days. They offer a relaxed vibe and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

INTO THE AM Premium Mens Fitted Crew Neck Essential Tee

A fitted T-shirt is an easy go-to for a casual fit.

Pair one with shorts or swim trunks for a beach vacation, or wear it with slim-fit trousers for a casual office look.

Amazon Essentials Men's Short-Sleeve Chambray Shirt

If you like button-downs but you want it a little more casual, this is a great option.

Ideal for picnics, outdoor gatherings, or summer barbecues, a reliable short-sleeve shirt will carry you through plenty of occasions.

Oxford Men's Short-Sleeve Dress Shirt

This Oxford short-sleeve shirt will keep you classy without being too warm.

Long-Sleeve Shirt

Three men modeling long-sleeved t-shirts in brown, burgundy, and navy colors.
Soffe/Carhartt/Russell Athletic

Long-sleeve shirts come in various styles, from casual flannels to formal dress shirts. They are designed with long sleeves that can be rolled up or down depending on the look you want to achieve.

Long-sleeve shirts are versatile and can adapt to different seasons and occasions. They provide extra warmth in cooler weather and can be layered under jackets or sweaters.

Consider layering yours under a blazer for a polished business casual outfit.

Soffe Men's Long-Sleeve Cotton T-Shirt

A long-sleeve shirt in your favorite color will help you stay confident anywhere you go.

You can also wear a lightweight long-sleeve shirt with jeans for a casual date night.

Carhartt Men's Loose Fit Heavyweight Long-Sleeve Shirt

This heavy-weight long-sleeve shirt will keep you warm during the changing seasons.

The long-sleeve shirt is ideal for transitional seasons when the weather is unpredictable. It’ll keep you warm in the evenings, but it won’t leave you sweating when the temperatures are at their peak in the afternoon.

Russell Athletic Men's Cotton Performance Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

Having a few long-sleeve basic shirts in your wardrobe is a necessity.

Dress Shirt

Three men in different blue button-up shirts.
Van Heusen/Van Heusen/Amazon Essentials

A dress shirt is a formal and tailored men’s shirt designed for professional or dressy occasions. It typically features a pointed collar, long sleeves with cuffs, and a button-down front.

Every man should have at least one high-quality dress shirt in his closet. It’s a must-have for job interviews, weddings, and formal events, ensuring you look sharp and put together.

Van Heusen Men's Dress Shirt Regular

A crisp dress-shirt will be your go-to for every formal occasion.

You can wear your dress shirt with a suit and tie for business meetings or formal events. Tuck it into dress trousers for a sophisticated office look.

Amazon Essentials Men's Regular-Fit Long-Sleeve Casual Poplin Shirt

If you need a dress shirt that can lean a little casual, this patterned option will do the trick.

A dress shirt is essential for special events like weddings or fine dining.

Van Heusen mens Regular Fit Button-Down Collar Dress Shirt

A trustworthy dress shirt is a requirement for every man's wardrobe.

Henley

Three men modeling Henley shirts. One is short-sleeved and blue, one is red and long-sleeved, and one is green and long-sleeved.
Wrangler Authentics/Hanes/Amazon-Essentials

A Henley shirt is a casual option with a unique ribbed, buttoned neck opening that extends a few inches down from the collar. It’s a casual pullover shirt typically made from soft and breathable materials.

Henley shirts offer a stylish alternative to the traditional crewneck or v-neck T-shirt. They provide a touch of sophistication while maintaining a relaxed and comfortable vibe.

Easily layer one under a denim jacket or winter coat for a more rugged look.

Hanes Men's Long-Sleeve Beefy Henley T-Shirt

Stay comfortable and relaxed in this long-sleeved Henley.

You can also wear your Henley as a standalone shirt with jeans for a laid-back weekend outfit.

Wrangler Authentics Men's Short Sleeve Henley Tee

While it might look like a polo, the lack of color keeps this short-sleeved Henley casual.

It’s ideal for casual gatherings, relaxing at home, or grabbing a coffee with friends.

Amazon Essentials Men's Slim-Fit Long-Sleeve Henley Shirt

You can't help looking casual but put together in a Henley shirt.

Undershirt

three men wearing different undershirts. One is a thin white crew neck, one is a light gray tank, and one is a tight-fitting white v-neck.
BAMBOO COOL/Gildan/T THOMPSON TEE

Undershirts are exactly what they sound like—a shirt to wear under your other clothes. Because of this, they’re typically plain, close-fitting, and made from lightweight cotton. They provide extra warmth or prevent sweat from reaching your outer layers.

Undershirts are a practical addition to your wardrobe, helping to keep you comfortable and your outer shirts sweat-free. This is essential when attending any formal events.

Sweatproof Undershirt for Men with Underarm Sweat Pads

You won't have to worry about sweat stains when you use this undershirt.

Wear your undershirt under dress shirts to absorb sweat and prevent visible stains.

BAMBOO COOL Men's T-Shirts Moisture-Wicking Crew Neck T-Shirt

A multi-pack of undershirts will ensure you always have one to wear.

Choose a v-neck undershirt for a discreet look under open-collar shirts.

Gildan Men's A-shirt Tanks

This multi-pack of undershirt tanks will keep you cooler when layering in warmer months.


Building a well-rounded closet involves having a variety of shirt types to suit different occasions and seasons. These types of shirts for men ensure you’re always dressed appropriately and stylishly, no matter the event on your calendar. Invest in high-quality options to elevate your wardrobe and express your personal style with confidence.

Abbey Ryan Abbey Ryan
Abbey Ryan is a storyteller, preferably of stories in written form. Across the 5 years of her professional writing career, her work has been featured in The Chicago Tribune, Amazon, The Medical News Today, and more. When she's not writing (which is rare), she's likely traveling, painting, or on the hunt for a good snack. Read Full Bio »
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