WHAT IS A DRESS SHIRT?

Dress shirts are a staple of everything wardrobe. Perfect for business and a night out. Let’s dive into everything you should know about dress shirts.

what is a dress shirt?

A dress shirt is a garment worn by men, typically in the form of a white cotton or linen shirt. Dress shirts are also worn by women, although the sizing and fit may be a bit different. They are often seen as a more formal garment, and may be worn to work or other professional settings.

dress shirt example
dress shirt example

Dress shirts come in a variety of styles and colors, but are most commonly white or light blue. They are typically made from cotton or linen, and may have a stiff collar and cuffs. Dress shirts may be worn tucked in or out, and are often accompanied by a belt or suspenders.

Dress shirts are available in both standard and custom sizes. They can be tailored to fit a variety of body types, and are often available in slim, regular, and plus sizes.

Dress shirts can be machine-washed and dried, but should be ironed before wearing. They may also be dry-cleaned.

what is the difference between a shirt and a dress shirt?

A shirt is a garment that is typically worn by men, and is typically made from cotton or linen. A dress shirt is a type of shirt that is typically worn by men in more formal settings, and is often made from cotton or linen.

Think of a “shirt” as a parent category. When someone says “shirt,” they could be referring to a t-shirt, athletic shirt, dress shirt, polo shirt, Oxford shirt, etc.

shirt is the parent category
“shirt” is like a parent category

So a dress shirt is a type of shirt, but a shirt isn’t necessarily a dress shirt.

The name “dress shirt” is often reserved for button-up shirts that are a neutral color that can pair well with another clothing article such as a suit, jacket, or tie.

Dress shirts may have a stiff collar and cuffs, and may be worn tucked in or out. They may also be accompanied by a belt or suspenders. Dress shirts are available in both standard and custom sizes, and can be tailored to fit a variety of body types.

They can be machine-washed and dried, but should be ironed before wearing. They may also be dry-cleaned.

what is considered a dress shirt?

A dress shirt is a shirt that is typically worn by men in more formal settings, and is often made from cotton or linen. Dress shirts come in a variety of styles and colors, but are most commonly white, blue, grey, and black.

Dress shirts usually have a button-up style allowing for the opportunity for it to be worn under a suit or jacket with a tie if the occasion called for it.

when should you wear a dress shirt?

Dress shirts are typically worn in more formal settings, such as at work or for a special occasion. Examples include , but are not limited to, weddings, funerals, job interviews, and business meetings.

dress shirt for interview
dress shirt for interview

what to wear with a dress shirt?

A dress shirt can be worn with a variety of different clothing items. Depending on the occasion, a dress shirt may be worn with dress pants or jeans. A belt or suspenders may also be worn with a dress shirt. Dress shirts are also often worn under suits or jackets.

what are some dress shirt “don’ts”

Dress shirt “don’ts” can vary depending on the occasion. For example, it is generally frowned upon to wear a dress shirt without a tie to a job interview or business meeting.

what are some “dos” for dress shirts?

There are a few things that you can do to make sure that your dress shirt looks its best. For example, always be sure to iron your dress shirt before wearing it. You can also wear a dress shirt in different ways, depending on the occasion. For example, you can wear a dress shirt untucked at a more casual event, or you can wear a dress shirt with a tie at a more formal event.

history of dress shirts

The history of the dress shirt can be traced back to the 17th century in Europe. They were often seen as undergarments.

Since a dress shirt is just a button-up shirt, you could make the claim that they were around even before the 17th century. A button-up shirt becomes a “dress shirt” when it looks well prepared (ironed and no stains) and when the occasion calls for a more formal attire.

dress shirts vs Oxford shirts

As mentioned in my Oxford shirts article, the difference between an Oxford shirt and a regular dress shirt lies in the fabric as well as the collar. Oxford shirts have a collar that you can button, whereas dress shirts do not.

oxford vs dress shirt
Oxford shirt vs dress shirt

final remarks

So, to recap:

  • A dress shirt is a type of shirt that is typically worn by men in more formal settings.
  • Dress shirts usually have a button-up style and come in a variety of colors and sizes.
  • Dress shirts can be worn with a variety of clothing items, but are often worn under suits or jackets.
  • There are a few things that you can do to make sure your dress shirt looks its best, such as ironing it and choosing the right collar type for the occasion.
  • Oxford shirts are a type of dress shirt that have a collar that can be buttoned.