A good shirt should look more than just attractive in the product photo. It should also suit your build, feel comfortable throughout a long working day and keep its shape after multiple washes. When looking for men's shirts and polos, you will come across terms such as slim fit, premium cotton, easy care and stretch. These terms only tell you something useful when you understand the product specifications behind them.
The most common buying mistakes are:
A slim fit sits closer to the body around the chest, waist and arms. This works well for a polished smart-casual outfit, but may feel less comfortable if you move around a lot or prefer more room around the stomach. So do not just check the letter size. Also look at the chest, waist and sleeve measurements in the product information.
A regular fit generally provides more freedom of movement. For example, the Tommy Hilfiger 1985 Regular Polo uses a regular fit, making it practical with jeans, chinos and shorts. A tall model can be a good solution for taller men. The Urban Classics Tall Tee is made from 100% cotton with a weight of 180 gsm and is designed as a longer T-shirt style.
Also pay attention to the collar size when choosing a men's shirt. Sizes such as 39, 40 or 43 often refer to the collar measurement in centimetres, rather than the same sizing system as XS to XXL.
A men's cotton shirt usually feels lightweight and familiar. Piqué has a distinctive texture and is often used for polos. Poplin is smoother and looks more formal, while twill has a slightly sturdier weave.
Stretch means that elastane or a similar flexible fibre has been added. According to the product information, the Calvin Klein Stretch Pique Slim Button Polo consists of 96% cotton and 4% elastane. This can provide extra freedom of movement with a close-fitting style. With a men's stretch shirt, it is also worth checking the percentage of cotton: two stretch shirts can feel quite different.
Brands may promote features such as breathability, shape retention or durability. Treat these as the brand's product information, rather than a guaranteed result. According to Calvin Klein's own information, the cotton used in certain models is certified organic cotton. Always check the composition and certification information on the product page and care label.
Neutral colours are practical:
A polo with a ribbed collar and button fastening sits somewhere between a T-shirt and a shirt. A Kent collar on a shirt looks more formal. So think about how you will wear it beforehand: at home every day, in the office, while travelling, for dinner or for a smart-casual occasion.
Why it suits this profile: A simple black men's T-shirt for everyday wear, layering and casual combinations with jeans or shorts. The tall style is practical if you prefer some extra length.
The 100% cotton composition and weight of 180 gsm make the material choice easy to check; also look at the tall size chart before ordering.
100% cotton, 180 gsm, black colour and suitable for wearing on its own or under a jacket.
Why it suits this profile: The combination of a close-fitting silhouette, dark blue colour and polo collar works well for the office, dinner and smart-casual outfits.
The product information specifies both a slim fit and the exact composition of 96% cotton and 4% elastane. This makes it easier to assess the fit and stretch in advance.
Stretch piqué, traditional collar, button fastening and a subtle logo. According to the product information, it is machine washable.
Why it suits this profile: Three white T-shirts are handy if you often wear a base layer under shirts, jumpers or jackets.
A multipack makes it clear how many garments you receive. The white colour and V-neck are designed to be worn under a shirt.
Set of three, cotton fabric, V-neck and suitable for everyday wear or as a layer under clothing.
Why it suits this profile: A black slim fit shirt works with smart trousers, jeans or under a blazer, making it suitable for a range of working days.
The product details specify a Kent collar, fitted cut and 40°C machine wash. However, check the care label and collar size 39 before ordering.
Stretch poplin, 96% cotton and 4% elastane according to the product information, with a black colour and Kent collar.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Measure a shirt that fits well across the chest, shoulders and sleeves, then compare those measurements with the brand's size chart. With shirts, pay particular attention to the collar size. A men's slim fit shirt can feel smaller than a regular fit in the same letter size.
A men's polo usually has a collar and a short button fastening. This gives it a slightly smarter appearance than a men's T-shirt. A round-neck or V-neck T-shirt is generally simpler and suitable as a base layer or casual top.
Follow the care label, wash dark colours with similar colours where possible and do not use bleach unless permitted. Hang shirts up straight after washing. The product information may state that a shirt is machine washable, but drying instructions vary by model: some shirts must not be tumble dried.