Mastering the Checked Shirt

Checked shirts are a timeless favourite, loved by everyone from hipsters to lumberjacks. Let’s be honest—most of us own more than a few. Versatile and stylish, plaid shirts effortlessly bridge the gap between casual comfort and a touch of refined style, making them a staple for any wardrobe.

A designer check shirt should be a staple in every man’s wardrobe. Unlike Hawaiian shirts and denim shorts, your checkered shirts will never go out of style, so buying one now is an investment for the future. Here we’ll explain how to pull off all the check shirt outfit ideas you’ll need to pull one off.

 

 

The Material

You’re going to want your trusty checked shirt to be comfy whether you’re lounging around the house or heading out and about. One factor to consider is the weather. You don’t want to be wearing a thin shirt in the middle of winter. If it’s cold, go for a flannel shirt with long sleeves. 100% cotton will keep you warm and comfortable in hot weather. Like this striking example from Barbour:

 

Barbour Glen Check Shirt

 

In the summer you can opt for thinner material and brighter colours to reflect the nice weather, a good example is a smart short-sleeved shirt from Fred Perry:

 

Fred Perry Oxford Short Sleeve Shirt

 

Add Layers

A check shirt is also good for layering when it’s not too cold. Adding an open-button flannel shirt over your t-shirt is a great look for added warmth. Remember, check shirts can be worn both done up and undone – as long as you’re wearing something underneath, don’t be that guy.

A plaid shirt can look great as a middle layer between your favourite tee and a denim jacket.

 

Casual Wear

A plaid top can look great worn with dark jeans for an everyday look or even chinos if you want to get a bit smarter. Add a trusty pair of boots and you’re all set for your day out in the city. A check shirt is also great for that rugged look – wear an oversized shirt over your favourite jeans. 

When wearing a shirt with multiple patterns, pair it with neutral pieces to avoid an overly chaotic look. Ensure the rest of your outfit remains neutral; otherwise, you might end up looking like a jumble sale.

 

Work the Formal Look

A check shirt can also be dressed up more formally. A well-fitting shirt with a smart tie can make you look like the GQ man you always wanted to be. Just be careful not to overdo it – a check shirt is a statement piece, not the focal point of your outfit.

A checked shirt is a versatile and stylish wardrobe staple item. There are so many ways to wear a plaid shirt that it’s not going to go out of fashion any time soon.

 

Ralph Lauren Check Shirt

 

Smart casual

For formal events, a checked shirt can be a stylish and appropriate choice, but selecting the right details is crucial to avoid clashing patterns or colours. Opt for smaller checks, as they appear tidier and more refined compared to larger, bolder designs. 

Pair your shirt with long sleeves to complement a suit jacket. If the occasion calls for a tie, choose a slim one, as a wider tie may feel out of place against the intricate pattern of a checked shirt. By keeping these tips in mind, you can create a polished and cohesive look for any formal occasion.

It is also important to remember the suit and tie should be in a neutral colour – black for example. Otherwise, your outfit could look too “busy”. Slim jeans and leather shoes (or even a nice pair of ankle boots) can round off this look perfectly.

 

Under a Jacket

Plaid shirts pair perfectly with a dark denim or leather jacket, creating a timeless, effortlessly cool look. For the best results, leave the shirt untucked and wear the jacket slightly unbuttoned. 

This style is perfect for a more relaxed look or for just hanging out with friends on a weekend. All you need is a good quality denim coat or leather jacket and some smart jeans.

With a Tee

This is the most laidback look and requires very few items – perfect for those who want to keep things simple. You can wear it with any colour T-shirt, but try to avoid black as that will only make you look like an extra from Grease.

A checked overshirt rocked over a casual tee is perfect for any relaxed outing. The right footwear is essential. Smart trainers or shoes are important to bring this look together.

 

Farah Long Sleeved Shirt

 

Around Your Waist

If you can pull it off, why not sling a checkered shirt around your waist as an accessory? Worn alongside or instead of a belt, it can add that something extra to your outfit, without being too in your face. This look is perfect for a music festival or a day spent at the beach.

With Chinos

Chino trousers are very versatile. A check shirt is the perfect item to wear with chinos to create an easy smart-casual look – simply add a pair of Chelsea boots or brogues and you’re good to go.

A flannel shirt worn with tailored pants can also be taken from day to night very easily. Just add a smarter jacket, a scarf and a pair of smart shoes.

 

Lyle And Scott Check Flannel Shirt

 

With Jeans

A checked shirt worn with a pair of designer jeans is a casual look that is perfect for going out with friends or going to the cinema – anything casual.

You can pull off a long-sleeved shirt with jeans, but make sure you don’t wear it with a suit jacket or blazer as it will look too formal.

This is a very easy style to put together and can be done with any type of jeans. For extra style points, try a printed T-shirt underneath your shirt.

 

Tommy Hilfiger Long Sleeve Brush Shirt

 

In Conclusion

A checked shirt is a very common casual style that you can easily smarten up to create a preppy look for formal events. If you’re wearing the right size and colours that suit you, you cannot go wrong with adding one of these shirts to your wardrobe.

Now you know how to wear a checked shirt, it’s time to go out and buy one. Remember, a designer checked shirt is an investment piece that will never go out of style.

So, get the right fit and style for your body shape and personality. With all the different shades and designs out there you’ll find the right look. Get some inspiration from our Short Sleeve Shirt Guide!

 

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