Best Shirts for Work: Fabric, Fit & Style Tips
What Makes a Shirt Great for Work?
When choosing a shirt for work, look for:
- Fabric performance: Breathable, durable, wrinkle-resistant.
- Fit & comfort: Cut to flatter your body shape without restricting movement.
- Maintenance: Non-iron or easy-care fabrics that save time.
- Style versatility: Shirts that transition from office to after-work effortlessly.
Best Shirt Fabrics for the Office
Different fabrics suit different work environments and seasons. Here are the essentials:
- Twill: Durable with subtle texture, hides wrinkles better than poplin.
- Poplin: Crisp, lightweight, smooth — ideal for formal office settings.
- Oxford: Heavier weave, slightly casual, perfect for business-casual days.
- Linen: Breathable and cool, best for summer and warmer climates.
Explore our Twill, Poplin, Oxford, and Linen Shirts.
How to Choose the Right Fit
Fit is everything. A well-tailored shirt instantly sharpens your look:
- Super Fitted: Sharp silhouette, ideal for slim builds
- Fitted: Modern shape without being restrictive. Versatile for most body types.
- Slim: Our best-selling size. A timeless option.
- Regular – Classic and comfortable
Tip: Focus on shoulder seams, sleeve length, and collar fit. These areas determine whether a shirt looks truly tailored.
Collar Styles for Work Shirts
Collars frame your face and influence the formality of your look.
Classic Point Collar: Timeless and versatile, works with most ties.
Cutaway Collar: Bold, stylish, perfect with a wider tie knot.
Button-Down Collar: More casual, best for smart-casual days.
Wing Collar: Reserved for formalwear and black-tie events.
Pair your shirt with one of our Silk Ties or Knitted Ties for a complete professional look.
Colours and Patterns for Work
White: Always professional, always versatile.
Light Blue: Adds subtle colour, works for all skin tones.
Pale Pink & Lavender: Confident and modern, perfect for spring and summer.
Checks & Stripes: Introduce pattern while staying office-appropriate.
Skin tone tip:
Warm undertones: ivory, peach, warmer blues.
Cool undertones: crisp white, lilac, cool blue.
Non-Iron vs Traditional Shirts: Which Is Better for Work?
Non-iron shirts are ideal for busy professionals. They’re treated to maintain a crisp look all day, no ironing board needed.
T.M.Lewin pioneered the non-iron revolution, combining performance with classic tailoring.
Traditional cotton shirts offer that clean, natural feel—best if you prefer untreated fabric (or like ironing).
Our Top Picks: The Best Shirts for Work Right Now
- White Non-Iron Twill Shirt - Crisp, clean, and crease-free. The cornerstone of any work wardrobe.
- Blue Poplin Fitted Shirt - Office classic, cool and sharp under a blazer.
- Pima Cotton Shirt - Perfect for hybrid dressing—comfortable, smart, flexible.
Shirt Care & Maintenance
- Wash at low temperatures to preserve fabric.
- Hang on broad hangers to maintain shoulder shape.
- Use a steamer for quick touch-ups and to protect non-iron finishes.
- Rotate shirts — giving fabric a break extends longevity.
FAQs:
What colour shirt is most professional?
A crisp white shirt is the most versatile and professional option, but pale blue is a close second.
How many shirts should I own for work?
Aim for at least 5 quality shirts, so you can rotate through the week without over-wearing any one piece.
What’s the best shirt for job interviews?
A plain white or light blue poplin shirt with a classic collar — sharp, neutral, and safe for all industries.
What is the best shirt for a business casual office?
A cotton oxford shirt or soft poplin shirt in pale blue or white. Add chinos or tailored trousers to complete the look.
Can I wear non-iron shirts daily?
Yes. T.M.Lewin’s non-iron range is made for everyday wear—comfortable and long-lasting, even after repeated washes.
What shirt should I wear for a job interview?
Stick to a clean white or light blue classic fit shirt, ideally with a semi-cutaway collar.
Are short sleeve shirts acceptable at work?
Increasingly, yes. Especially in summer or hybrid offices. Just keep the fit sharp and the fabric high quality.
Quick Work Shirt Checklist
- Choose breathable, durable fabric.
- Match fit to your body shape.
- Pick collar style for formality and face shape.
- Build a rotation of versatile colours (white, blue, patterned).
- Maintain shirts properly to extend their life.
Find the Best Work Shirts at T.M. Lewin
For over 125 years, T.M. Lewin has dressed professionals for success with shirts crafted in premium fabrics and tailored fits.
Whether you’re looking for non-iron convenience, classic formal styles, or business-casual versatility, our shirt collection has the perfect shirt for every office setting.