How to Choose a Men’s Shirt: Styles & Outfit Ideas

A wardrobe essential, the shirt transcends the seasons and adapts to every style. Plain, checked, denim or worn open as an overshirt, it offers endless possibilities for creating both relaxed and smart outfits.

At Mat de Misaine, the men’s shirt draws inspiration from the maritime wardrobe, bringing together natural colours, patterns and layering. But how do you choose the right shirt for your style? Here are some ideas to help you find the perfect combination.

Different Styles of Men’s Shirts

Every shirt has its own character. The choice of colour, pattern and cut allows you to create very different looks with the same wardrobe essential.

The Plain Shirt: An Easy-to-Style Essential

The plain shirt is a classic of the men’s wardrobe. In light blue, it brings brightness to an outfit and pairs naturally with shades of navy, beige or dark denim.

Worn with jeans, it creates a simple, relaxed look. Paired with smarter trousers, it offers an understated silhouette without feeling too formal.

For a seaside-inspired look, opt for shades of blue that evoke the ocean and the colours of the coastline.

The Checked Shirt: Texture and Character

With its distinctive lines and colour combinations, a checked shirt instantly adds character to an outfit.

Checks in shades of pink, brown, green or blue offer plenty of styling possibilities. To maintain a balanced look, pair it with plain trousers that pick up one of the colours in the pattern.

A pink checked shirt, for example, pairs effortlessly with navy blue trousers. Styles featuring khaki and brown tones work particularly well with dark jeans or ecru trousers.

It is also a great way to introduce colour into the men’s wardrobe without combining too many patterns.

The Denim Shirt: Effortlessly Casual Style

Inspired by everyday workwear, the denim shirt is a versatile wardrobe essential.

Its deep blue colour naturally evokes the maritime universe. It can be worn buttoned up with contrasting trousers or open over a light-coloured T-shirt for a more relaxed look.

To avoid an overly uniform outfit, play with different shades: a dark blue denim shirt paired with beige or brown trousers, for example.

Explore our selection of men’s trousers and jeans to create your own combinations.

The Overshirt: Perfect for Layering

Somewhere between a shirt and a lightweight jacket, the overshirt stands out for its versatile styling possibilities.

Worn open over a T-shirt or lightweight jumper, it adds structure to the silhouette while maintaining a relaxed look.

Checked styles and chest pockets enhance this casual feel, making the overshirt particularly suited to transitional weather.

Paired with plain trousers, the overshirt becomes the statement piece of the outfit.

How to Style a Men’s Shirt

There is no single way to wear a shirt. It all depends on the look you want to create and the pieces you choose to pair it with.

With Jeans for a Relaxed Look

A shirt and jeans are a timeless combination.

A light blue shirt brings brightness to dark denim. Alternatively, a checked shirt can add character to dark indigo jeans through its colours and patterns.

For a more casual outfit, wear the shirt open over a plain T-shirt.

With Chinos for a Smart-Casual Look

Chinos are ideal for creating a smarter silhouette while maintaining a relaxed feel.

Beige chinos paired with a blue shirt create a soft, fresh contrast. With a checked shirt, they allow the pattern to stand out without overwhelming the outfit.

For more styling inspiration, explore our collection of men’s trousers.

Under a Jumper or Jacket for the Transitional Season

As temperatures begin to drop, a shirt becomes an excellent foundation for layering.

Wear it under a jumper with the collar showing, or beneath a jacket to add more structure to the silhouette.

A checked shirt layered under plain knitwear creates an interesting contrast between pattern and texture.

Explore our selection of men’s knitwear and cardigans and men’s jackets.

What Colour Men’s Shirt Should You Choose?

Blue remains a timeless choice in the men’s wardrobe. From light blue to navy, it pairs effortlessly with natural tones.

Pink offers a softer alternative. Whether plain or checked, it works particularly well with navy blue and denim.

Khaki, beige and brown evoke a more autumnal colour palette, ideal for pairing with ecru or dark trousers.

To create a harmonious outfit, a simple approach is to pair a patterned shirt with plain trousers, or play with contrasts between a light-coloured shirt and darker trousers.

How to Choose a Shirt That Suits Your Body Shape

Beyond style, choosing the right shirt also depends on its cut and how you intend to wear it.

A shirt worn on its own should provide enough room across the shoulders and chest without pulling at the buttons.

If you plan to wear it open, make sure it layers comfortably over a T-shirt or lightweight knit.

Length also matters: a shirt intended to be worn untucked should fall naturally and maintain balanced proportions.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. Some favour a more fitted silhouette, while others prefer a looser, more relaxed look.

The Men’s Shirt: A Wardrobe Essential to Reinterpret Throughout the Seasons

From light blue to denim, from colourful checks to more understated styles, the shirt offers countless ways to dress.

Worn on its own, open or layered, it naturally finds its place in an ocean-inspired wardrobe where colours and fabrics complement one another.

At Mat de Misaine, we embrace this freedom to mix and match, allowing everyone to express their personal style.

Explore our collection of men’s shirts and find the style that will accompany you every day.

FAQ – How to Choose and Style a Men’s Shirt

Which Men’s Shirt Should You Choose for a Casual Look?

A denim shirt, checked shirt or overshirt is a great option. Paired with jeans or worn open over a T-shirt, it creates a relaxed silhouette.

How to Style a Men’s Checked Shirt

The simplest approach is to pair it with plain trousers. Dark indigo jeans, beige chinos or navy blue trousers allow the checked pattern to stand out.

Can You Wear a Denim Shirt with Jeans?

Yes. To create a balanced outfit, choose two different shades of denim or introduce a light-coloured T-shirt between the two pieces.

What Colour Trousers Go with a Men’s Pink Shirt?

Navy blue, dark denim, beige and ecru are all excellent choices. These colours highlight the pink while maintaining an understated look.

What Is the Difference Between a Shirt and an Overshirt?

A shirt is generally worn on its own or under another garment. An overshirt is designed to be worn as an additional layer, often left open over a T-shirt or lightweight knit.