Joybuy Insights

Choosing men’s shirts and polos: how to shop online without getting it wrong

A good shirt needs to do more than look smart in a product photo. In the UK, you might wear a shirt to the office, a T-shirt in your free time and a polo for a smart-casual occasion. But shopping online isn’t always straightforward. A slim fit can feel very tight in practice, cotton may feel different from what you expected, and an appealing colour tells you little about care or fit.

Use this practical checklist to compare men’s shirts and polos by features you can check before you buy.

Three common pitfalls when buying clothes online

1. Choosing a fit based on its name

“Slim fit” doesn’t mean the same thing for every brand. A slim fit men’s shirt might be narrower at the waist, while a slim fit T-shirt may simply be shorter or tighter around the arms. Always check the size guide, chest measurement and any notes such as “comes up large” or “true to size”.

Collar size also matters for a shirt. A size 39 or 41 usually refers to the neck measurement in centimetres, not the general clothing size.

2. Looking only at the material percentage

100% cotton sounds straightforward, but cotton can come in different weaves and weights. Poplin feels smooth and lightweight, piqué has a distinctive texture, and jersey is often used for T-shirts. A stretch men’s shirt usually contains elastane as well as cotton. This can give you more freedom to move, but be sure to check the care instructions too.

Pay attention to the exact description as well. Some items list a blend, while others are described as 100% cotton. Claims about organic or certified cotton come from the brand’s product information and shouldn’t automatically be taken as a general environmental guarantee.

3. Choosing a colour without considering what it goes with

A black men’s shirt is easy to wear with jeans, chinos or smart trousers, but dark fabrics can need extra care. A blue men’s shirt in Night Sky works well with grey, beige and denim. White T-shirts are practical as a base layer, while navy or black often look less casual.

What to look for in men’s shirts and polos

Fit: slim fit or regular fit

Choose slim fit if you’re after a closer silhouette and don’t plan to wear the garment over a thick layer. Check these measurements in particular:

  • chest and waist measurements;
  • shoulder width;
  • sleeve length;
  • garment length;
  • notes about whether it comes up large or small.

A regular fit men’s polo usually gives you more room around the chest and stomach. A slim fit men’s polo sits closer to the body and works well with smart jeans or chinos, as long as the buttons don’t pull.

Material and occasion

For everyday wear, men’s cotton T-shirts and cotton polos are practical choices. Jersey makes a soft, casual base layer. Cotton piqué has more texture and works well for a polo worn to work or an informal occasion. A stretch poplin shirt combines a smooth appearance with a little give.

Always check the following before you buy:

  • the fibre composition;
  • whether it contains elastane;
  • the washing temperature;
  • whether the garment is suitable for tumble drying;
  • the ironing instructions.

For example, an Urban Classics T-shirt is listed as 100% cotton, 180 gsm, with cold washing and low tumble drying recommended. A Calvin Klein stretch shirt, on the other hand, has a 40 °C wash recommendation and should not be tumble dried.

Care and how often you’ll wear it

A garment you wear often needs to fit in with your laundry routine. An easy-care shirt can be handy for the office, but always follow the care label. Calvin Klein’s product information describes certain twill shirts as being made from a fabric that creases less easily. This is a product specification, not a guarantee that ironing will never be needed.

For more sustainable men’s clothing, look for garments you can wear with a range of outfits, with the material clearly stated and care instructions you can follow. According to Tommy Hilfiger’s product information, some Tommy Jeans shirts are made from independently certified organic cotton. Always check the current composition and certification details on the product page before buying.

Recommended choices for different types of shopper

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Calvin Klein S/S V-Neck 3-Pack 100% Cotton T-Shirt

Calvin Klein S/S V-Neck 3-Pack 100% Cotton T-Shirt

Why it suits this shopper: Three white V-neck T-shirts make a practical everyday staple, worn under a shirt or jumper.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that you’ll receive a pack of three made from 100% cotton, so you know what to expect before you buy.

Key benefit & highlights

Three T-shirts, a V-neck and cotton; suitable as a base layer or worn on its own.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Tommy Jeans Men's Slim Fit Poplin Shirt Black Iris

Tommy Jeans Men's Slim Fit Poplin Shirt – Black Iris

Why it suits this shopper: This black stretch shirt with a tailored fit works for the office, dinner and smart-casual outfits.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page includes a size guide with chest and sleeve measurements, and recommends machine washing at 30 °C.

Key benefit & highlights

Made from 100% organic cotton according to the product information, with stretch fabric and a black colour.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent wear
Urban Classics Tall Tee T-Shirts black

Urban Classics Tall Tee T-Shirts black

Why it suits this shopper: The tall fit is useful for taller men and works well in casual outfits with jeans, shorts or an overshirt.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The fabric weight of 180 gsm, material composition and care advice are all clearly stated.

Key benefit & highlights

100% cotton, a tall design, a black colour and sizes from XXS to XXXL according to the product listing.

Suitable for: The office and smart-casual occasions
Calvin Klein Stretch Pique Slim Button Polo Night Sky

Calvin Klein Stretch Pique Slim Button Polo Night Sky

Why it suits this shopper: This navy men’s polo combines a collar and button fastening with a close fit, making it suitable for both work and leisure.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, the fabric is made from 96% cotton and 4% elastane, so you can check the composition before buying.

Key benefit & highlights

Slim fit, stretch piqué, a classic collar and machine washable according to the product care advice.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about men’s shirts and polos

Which fit is right for me: slim fit or regular fit?

Slim fit sits closer to the chest, waist and arms. Regular fit gives you more room to move and is often more practical if you wear your shirt on its own or want to layer it over an undershirt. Measure your chest and compare it with the size guide for the specific brand.

How should I wash cotton T-shirts and polos?

Always follow the care label. Many cotton shirts can be machine washed, but the recommended temperature, drying method and ironing instructions vary by product. Wash dark colours using the programme stated on the label, and don’t use bleach if the label advises against it. Avoiding the tumble dryer can help reduce shrinkage and loss of shape.

How long will a men’s shirt or polo last?

How long it lasts depends on how often you wear it, the material, the wash programme and how it’s dried. A shirt that you rotate with other clothes and care for according to the label will generally show less wear. Before buying, check not just the brand name but also the fabric, seams, fit and care instructions. This makes comparing men’s clothing online much easier.