Buying men’s clothing: how to choose shirts, dress shirts and functional clothing without making the wrong purchase

Ordering a new outfit seems simple, until a shirt fits differently than expected, a dress shirt creases quickly or sportswear does not breathe sufficiently. When it comes to men’s clothing, a good purchase is therefore about more than just colour or brand. Fit, material, care and intended use all determine whether a garment becomes a regular favourite in your wardrobe.

Pay particular attention to these common pitfalls:

• A brand name says nothing about the fit. A slim-fit dress shirt may feel tight across broad shoulders, while a tailored-fit shirt may be roomier than expected.
• Technical terms are not always explained in full. “Quick-drying”, “water-repellent” or “sun protection” can refer to different materials and testing methods. Always check the specific product information.
• Sustainability is sometimes described too generally. Look at the stated material and any certification. According to Tommy Hilfiger’s product information, certain shirts are made from independently certified organic cotton. This is more verifiable than simply using the term “sustainable men’s fashion”.
• Care requirements are often underestimated. A dress shirt that only stays looking good with careful washing and ironing requires more time than an easy-care option.

The most important specifications for men’s clothing

1. Fit and sizing

Do not compare just the letter size; also check the chest measurement, sleeve length and body height. Sizes vary by brand and model. For some Tommy Hilfiger shirts, for example, the chest measurement ranges from 88–92 cm for XS to 115–120 cm for XXL. A Calvin Klein men’s dress shirt, on the other hand, may be labelled by collar size, such as 39 or 40.

Use this practical checklist:

1. Measure your chest at the widest point without pulling the tape measure tight.
2. For dress shirts, measure your neck size as well.
3. Compare the size chart for the specific item with a well-fitting garment.
4. If you plan to wear layers or need freedom of movement for sports, allow a little extra room, but check that the shoulders are not too wide.

2. Material and when to wear it

For everyday wear, cotton and cotton blends are often comfortable thanks to their soft feel and breathability. Stretch fabrics, such as those containing elastane, can provide extra freedom of movement. A men’s cotton long-sleeve shirt works well as a standalone layer or underneath a jacket, while a polyester blend is often chosen for men’s sports shirts because it retains less moisture.

Examples of material choices:

• Organic cotton: Tommy Hilfiger products are described as containing independently certified organic cotton. Always check the label and certification information.
• Cotton blend with elastane: provides flexibility in a slim-fit dress shirt or shirt.
• Technical polyester fabric: PELLIOT lists Toray technical fabric with STORMDRY technology and a POLYGIENE treatment. These are product specifications from the listing; their performance should not be regarded as a guaranteed result for every user.
• Sleeve accessories: cycling sleeves with sun protection can provide extra coverage when cycling or commuting. However, the Beneunder sleeves in this selection do not state a specific UPF rating in the information provided. Do not automatically interpret “sun protection” as a particular protection class.

3. Care and everyday use

Check the washing and drying instructions before buying. According to the product information, the Calvin Klein Twill Easy Care Slim Shirt is described as an easy-care dress shirt and can be washed at 40 °C, depending on the care label. The Tommy Jeans shirts state that they should be washed at 30 °C and not tumble dried. PELLIOT recommends cold washing, no bleaching and no tumble drying.

An easy-care shirt is particularly useful if you:

• travel frequently;
• want to spend less time ironing;
• want to hang clothes up straight after washing;
• wear sportswear several times a week.

Our recommendations by user type

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Tommy Hilfiger TJM Original Stretch Shirt Men Tommy Black

Why it suits this profile: A black shirt pairs effortlessly with jeans, chinos and smart trousers. The tailored fit and stretch fabric are practical for everyday wear and informal working environments.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size chart lists chest, sleeve and arm lengths. This means you do not have to rely solely on sizes XS to XXL.

Key benefit & advantages

Stretch fabric, black colour and, according to the product information, independently certified organic cotton.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for top quality

Calvin Klein Poplin Stretch Slim Shirt Black Men

Why it suits this profile: This fitted dress shirt is designed to create a polished look for work, dinners and occasions where black offers plenty of versatility.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the fit, Kent collar, sleeve length and composition. However, check that the fitted cut suits your shoulder and chest measurements.

Key benefit & advantages

Stretch poplin with 4% elastane according to the product information; machine washable at 40 °C and suitable for ironing at a low temperature.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

PELLIOT Long-Sleeved T-Shirt for Man Gray

Why it suits this profile: The long sleeves and technical fabric are designed for walking, travelling, fitness and commuting. The grey colour is easy to combine as a layer.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing provides specific technical values and a separate size and weight chart. Assess the stated water resistance using the complete product specifications.

Key benefit & advantages

STORMDRY technology, described in the listing as quick-drying and crease-resistant; wash cold and do not tumble dry.

Suitable for: Cyclists and outdoor use

Beneunder summer men's cooling sun protection sleeve AL375

Why it suits this profile: A separate sleeve can be useful for cycling, outdoor exercise and commuting when you want extra coverage without wearing a long-sleeved shirt.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You are buying an arm accessory rather than another complete outfit. Check the size beforehand; this model is listed here in L and XL.

Key benefit & advantages

Lightweight accessory for cycling and outdoor activities; the information provided does not state a specific UPF classification.

Frequently asked questions about men’s clothing

Which dress-shirt fit is right for me?

Choose slim fit or fitted if you want a close-fitting look and your chest and waist measurements allow enough room. Regular fit provides more freedom of movement. Always measure yourself first and compare the specific size chart; an S, M or collar size is not the same across every brand.

What is a suitable shirt for sport and travel?

A men’s quick-drying shirt is practical if you are active or want to wash clothes by hand while travelling. Pay attention to the fibre content, care instructions and specific technical information. A cotton long-sleeve shirt may feel more comfortable for everyday wear, but it will generally dry differently from a technical polyester blend.

How can I make men’s clothing last longer?

Wash garments at the temperature stated on the label, do not use bleach unless permitted, and avoid the tumble dryer if the garment’s care instructions advise against it. Hang dress shirts up straight after washing, and do not leave knitted or stretchy garments on a hanger for long periods if the shoulders could stretch. This helps the fit, colour and material stay in good condition for longer.