Shirts are the backbone of a spring wardrobe. Reliable, versatile, and often overlooked, they’re the pieces that quietly do most of the heavy lifting. And with warmer days on the horizon, it’s worth taking stock of the types of shirts every man should have in rotation – the styles that work just as well layered under a textured jacket as they do on their own.
From breezy linens to classic Oxfords, each serves a purpose as the temperature shifts. Some lean casual, others are made for dressing up, but all earn their place as spring staples worth wearing on repeat.
Oxford shirt
It’s easy to forget just how good an Oxford shirt can be when spring hits. The heavy cotton is robust enough to handle a light breeze, but still breathable when the sun appears. In short, it's one of the best types of shirts for transitional weather. Wear it open over a T-shirt, or buttoned to the top. Blue and white are classics, but soft greens or pinks work well this time of year – a subtle nod to the season without veering into full pastel mode.
Linen shirt
Linen is the obvious move for warmer weather – the kind of fabric that looks better creased and worn-in. A loose cut works best, ideally in earthy tones or off-white. Pair it with tailored trousers or shorts, or wear it open poolside if that’s your thing. Either way, it’s the shirt equivalent of a long exhale – relaxed, breathable and unbothered.
Chambray shirt
Chambray comes into its own during spring – lighter than denim but with the same workwear charm. Great for days when the weather can’t quite make up its mind. Layer it over a tee, roll the sleeves, pair it with off-white jeans or chinos, and you’re done. Ideal if you want the attitude of denim without sweating through it by midday.
Cuban collar shirt
Few things say “I’m ready for a spritz” like a Cuban collar shirt. That open neckline, the boxy cut – perfect for milder days that hint at the summer ahead. Go bold if you want – prints, patterns, the lot – or keep it simple in crisp white. Worn loose with tailored trousers or shorts, it’s one of those types of shirts that immediately makes you feel like you’re on holiday, even if you’re not.
Seersucker shirt
Seersucker might be the most underrated warm-weather fabric. Lightweight, textured, and designed to lift off the skin, it’s what you wear when you need to look sharp but don’t fancy sweating through a cotton poplin number. Stick to stripes or pale block colours, and wear it with navy chinos or casual tailoring for that slightly preppy, slightly louche finish.
Striped poplin shirt
There’s something about a striped poplin shirt that just feels right in spring – the sort of shirt that belongs with loafers, sunglasses, and sleeves nonchalantly pushed up. Blue and white stripes are the obvious choice, but yellow or green can work if you’re brave enough. Smart, crisp, and ideal for those days when you’ve got somewhere to be.
Denim shirt
A lighter denim shirt is arguably one of the best layering pieces you can own once the days start getting longer. Worn open over a white tee or under a blazer, it adds a bit of structure without looking like you’ve tried too hard. Go for mid-wash or stonewashed shades – anything too dark feels too heavy for the season.
Grandad collar shirt
Minimal, functional, and a good way to take the formality out of traditional shirting. A grandad collar shirt feels relaxed but intentional, particularly in lightweight cotton or linen blends. Stick to neutrals – white, beige, pale blue – and it’ll slot into just about every outfit you own, from denim to suiting.
Overshirt / shacket
Spring’s biggest cheat code. Halfway between a shirt and a jacket, it’s the layer you reach for when a T-shirt isn’t quite enough. Think heavy cotton twill or canvas, maybe a bit of corduroy if you’re feeling adventurous. Wear these types of shirts with a plain tee, your best jeans, and loafers – and you’re basically good to go until July.
Knitted polo shirt
Strictly speaking, it’s not a shirt – but it does the same job. A fine-gauge knitted polo bridges the gap between formal and casual better than just about anything else. Worn with pleated trousers and loafers, it’s all very Riviera. Worn with jeans, it’s still the sharpest man in the room. Avoid the obvious logo-heavy options – simplicity is the whole point.
Next up: The best textured jackets to nail spring style.
