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When choosing the perfect dress shirt, you have plenty of options for your body type, activity and personal style. While the variety is good news, choosing the ideal top can be overwhelming. For some, a classic fit is a better option, while others prefer a slim fit for the occasion.
A closer look at the pros and cons of slim fit versus regular fit dress shirts can help you decide which is best for you, and once you have the ultimate fit, you can look at patterns and colors that reflect your aesthetic.
Slim fit shirts are more tailored than regular fit shirts. They are fitted around the arms and shoulders and tapered at the waist. A slim fit shirt is designed to flatter the physique and minimize extra fabric for a neater appearance. As the name suggests, slim fit dress shirts suit a leaner body type. They are not tight — if your shirt is tight across the midsection or through the arms, you may want to go up a size, but the fabric sits closer to the skin for a streamlined look.
Slim fit shirts should be slimmer around the neck and shoulders. You should be able to button the collar comfortably and have room to move across your chest, under your armpits and along your upper back. A slim fit shirt must be snug so your body fills out the fabric and is discernable underneath.
Your slim fit shirt should taper from the chest to the waist, following the shape of your body and creating a clean line with no excess fabric. The sleeves are tapered to follow the form of your arms to make a fitted appearance with no extra material, yet it should still be comfortable to move around in.
Regular fit shirts — also known as the standard or classic fit — are traditional in style and suited to many body types. They are looser on your body, with extra fabric to provide a comfortable and classic look. Regular fit shirts are generally longer than slim fits and don't taper from the chest. These tops offer greater freedom of movement and comfort, so if you have a larger body shape around the arms or waist, this can be a flattering option.
Regular fit shirts must be somewhat fitted with extra room through the arms, shoulders, neck and waist. They should be straighter through the sides, though slightly curved, to prevent excess bunching when you tuck them in. Your regular fit shirt should allow for comfort and ease of movement, so you shouldn't feel as though you're filling the fabric as you would with a fitted option.
The regular fit is best if you have a larger build or prefer a less form-fitting option. While the overall shape should be looser around the points of your body, the fit should be manageable. There should be a perfect balance between freedom of movement and a neat silhouette.
Choosing between slim fit versus regular fit dress shirts involves several factors, including your body type, the season and the occasion.
Slim fit shirts can be highly flattering to the right body type. They can accentuate the right body parts if you're leaner through the waist and arms. On the other hand, if you're a larger or muscular body type, they may pull in the wrong places and end up looking too tight. Regular fit shirts suit robust body types.
Regular fits are great for work or outdoor activities where you need to move a little more. You can tuck them into jeans or chinos for a casual look or smarten them up for work. Slim fits are superb for formal occasions, office parties and outdoor events.
With the right ensemble, you can use either dress shirt to complete your outfit, as long as you pay attention to what works for your body and your unique personal style.
You can dress slim fit shirts up or down depending on the occasion. One of the main benefits of these shirts is you can tuck them in and they'll stay comfortable throughout the day. They're suitable for many different events, depending on what you pair them with.
Keep your shirt untucked for a casual look, leave the top button open and pair it with jeans. If you're at work or going to a formal occasion, tuck your shirt in for a neater silhouette. These tops best suit circumstances where you want to present an elegant and streamlined look. Tuck your favorite slim fit shirt into a pair of chinos for weekend events and finish your look with a light jacket.
Some tips for wearing a slim fit dress shirt include:
Regular fit dress shirts are perfect for work. They're smart and comfortable — ideal for long commutes or busy days in the office. You can tuck them into a pair of slacks for an effortlessly professional look to wear every day or dress them up underneath a jacket for a wedding or special occasion, especially one that's likely to stretch into the night.
Regular fit shirts are often longer, so they look particularly smart when tucked in to give you a smooth silhouette. In a way, they are more versatile — you can dress them down with jeans to make the ultimate smart casual ensemble for larger body types. With room in the torso and arms, they're also an excellent choice for a gathering like a company bowling night, so you can let loose and relax.
Tips for wearing a regular fit dress shirt include the following:
Penner's is a premium men's store in downtown San Antonio, Texas. We've been in the business for over a century and yet remained effortlessly modern and chic. Whatever you're looking for, from guayaberas to dress shirts and suits, sports coats and jeans, you're bound to find something that works for you.
Our professional staff — many of whom have been in the business for over 25 years — will help you find the perfect fit every time. With seven in-house tailors and alterations free of charge at the time of purchase, you can be sure you'll arrive at your next event looking sophisticated and stylish. Please feel free to contact us at 210-226-2487, or browse our selection online and find a flawless ensemble today!
