Key Garment: The Business Shirt and Three Ways to Style It

The blue and white striped business shirt with a turndown collar is traditionally associated with the office, but it fits just as well in a more casual wardrobe. With the right combinations, the same shirt can transition from suit and tie to knitwear, denim, and derbies. Here, we showcase three ways to wear one of the true classics of the men's wardrobe.

At the Office: Classic with a Color Accent

At the office, the business shirt comes into its own when paired with a dark gray suit. The blue and white stripes create a subtle contrast against the suit's darker tone, while a burgundy tie adds color without overpowering the whole look.

Finish off with a pair of black loafers for a slightly more relaxed alternative to the classic dress shoe. The result is a well-balanced office look that stays within the boundaries of formal attire while still having character.

Base Look: Relaxed Elegance

Let the shirt represent the dressed-up aspect and build the rest of the outfit around more casual base pieces. A pair of dark blue chinos or jeans tones down the business feel, while a knitted sweater draped over the shoulders adds another relaxed dimension.

Dark brown, slightly sturdier derbies tie the color scheme together while maintaining a classic vibe. A simple combination for days when you want to look well-dressed without overdoing it with a blazer.

The Basic Look with a Personal Twist

The business shirt becomes significantly less predictable when it meets coarser materials and more relaxed garments. Wear the blue and white striped shirt with black selvedge jeans and a dark gray knitted cardigan for a darker and more casual interpretation.

Black loafers or derbies keep one foot in the formal realm, while a leather messenger bag and a cap steer the overall look in a more personal direction. The contrasts between business, denim, and casual accessories give the shirt a completely different expression than in the office.

The strength of the business shirt lies in the contrasts. Worn with a suit, it’s the obvious choice, but paired with chinos, knitwear, or raw denim, it becomes a significantly more versatile staple. Three expressions, the same shirt – and more reasons to let it leave both the wardrobe and the office.