Cotton is a popular fabric choice for a range of clothing items, including shirts. While the vast majority of cotton shirts are comfortable and durable, some shirts stand out among the crowd due to the higher quality fabrics used and careful craftsmanship. If you’re looking for the best cotton shirts that money can buy, here’s what you need to know.
What Makes Cotton Shirts High Quality?
The finest cotton shirts are usually made from Giza cotton fibers sourced from Egypt, which are renowned for their length, uniformity, and strength. Giza cotton is handpicked, yielding a softer and more luxurious fabric due to the reduced number of tiny kinks resulting from machine harvesting. The weaving process for high quality cotton shirts is likewise very delicate, and can involve the use of plying, carding, and combing during the spinning process. The longer, more uniform fibres are generally woven with a higher thread count for a fine and soft finish.
Benefits of Wearing Cotton Shirts
Cotton shirts have several advantages over other fabrics. Firstly, they’re lightweight and breathable, making them cooler to wear in summer weather. Secondly, they’re very comfortable and don’t leave you feeling itchy. Thirdly, cotton is low maintenance and easy to care for. You can simply put them in the washing machine, tumble dry them, and they require no ironing. Finally, they’re very durable as a fabric and will last a long time if cared for properly.
What to Look for When Buying a Cotton Shirt
When looking for a high-quality cotton shirt, first and foremost make sure you know what size you need. Then you’ll want to check whether it’s made from Giza cotton, as this will give you an indication of its quality. If possible, try to find out what type of weaving process was used as this will have a large impact on the overall softness and strength of the shirt. Be sure to check the collar type as well, as this is important for comfort and style. Finally, take a look at the style of the shirt: is it something you’ll look good in?
Different Types of Cotton Shirts
Cotton shirts come in several styles. Basic options include round collar shirts (the classic Oxford shirt), rectangular collared shirts (the Grandad collar) and tab-collar shirts (like a polo shirt). Dress shirts tend to have point collars with a Windsor knot-style knot, and in formal events you’ll see stand-up collar shirts that fasten with hooks or studs. Other styles include pleated front shirts (which give a flattering shape) and French cuffs (ideal for formal occasions).
Care Tips for Cotton Shirts
Caring for a cotton shirt is relatively straightforward. Firstly, always make sure you use a mild detergent and cold water when washing it. You should also be sure not to bleach or use a fabric softener as this will damage the fibres. If you need to iron the shirt, set the iron to a medium-low heat setting. Finally, if you want your shirt to stay looking great make sure you hang it up after use to allow it to air out.
Where to Buy Quality Cotton Shirts
There are several places where you can buy quality cotton shirts. Start with department stores like Nordstrom, as they typically stock more premium brands such as Eton, Ted Baker, and Robert Graham. Alternatively, you could look for second-hand versions from thrift stores, which offer great savings but do require some careful examination of each item. Online stores are also an option for those wanting to browse a wider selection.
Popular Brands of Cotton Shirts
Popular brands of cotton shirts include Incotex (known for their high-end dress shirts) and Sunspel (for their luxury T-shirts). If you’re looking for casual cotton shirts then try H&M or Uniqlo for affordable options. The higher end of the market is served by labels such as L.L Bean and Barbour – their shirts are more expensive but will last you for years.
Fashion Trends for Cotton Shirts
Cotton shirts come in a range of styles that fit within the current fashion trends. Slim fit designs are popular among those wanting a more contemporary look, with short sleeves being more popular than long sleeves in this category. More classic styles include Oxford and Granddad collars, which provide a timeless feel – ideal for formal occasions or adding a smart edge to your everyday wardrobe.
How to Style a Cotton Shirt
Cotton shirts can be styled in multiple ways depending on the occasion and your personal style. For smart casual outfits, try combining it with tailored trousers or slim-fit chinos, along with leather or suede shoes. On more casual days, try wearing a plain T-shirt over your shirt with chinos or jeans – this is great for layering in cooler weather. Alternatively, you could go for all-out style by wearing with patterned trousers or shorts in summertime.
