Formal Shirt
29/05/2025

Let’s face it—stylish shirts for men are a staple, but pulling them off with effortless charm? 

That’s the real trick. Whether you're buttoning up for a boardroom meeting, suiting up for a special occasion, or simply aiming to turn heads with understated taste, mastering the art of styling men's formal shirts makes all the difference.

And no, you don’t need a walk-in wardrobe or a celebrity stylist to nail your look. Just a few practical, style-smart hacks that work—and a little help from thoughtfully crafted pieces like ISAIAS, DEREL, CHARLIE, and OTTO, Perona’s standout essentials that blend premium comfort with timeless design.

Ready to upgrade your shirt game? Let’s go.

1. Get the Fit Right: Yes, It Matters More Than You Think

First things first: a good fit beats a good brand. No matter how high-end your shirt is, if it doesn’t sit well on your frame, it won’t do you justice.

When sizing your men's full-sleeve shirts, pay attention to:

  • Shoulders: Seams should align perfectly with your shoulder tips.

  • Chest: A slim, close fit—not tight, not baggy.

  • Length: Long enough to tuck in, but not so long that it bunches.

Take EMILIO NAVY MEN'S SHIRT, for instance. Crafted from a premium cotton-polyester blend, it features a clean, fitted silhouette through the shoulders. The result? A shirt that doesn’t just fit—it flatters.

2. Collar Talk: Pick One That Frames Your Face

The collar is more than just a design detail—it can sculpt your look.

  • Point Collars elongate rounder faces.

  • Spread Collars complement narrow jaws and modern suits.

  • Grown-on Lapel Collars, like those on CHARLIE, add a casual, contemporary vibe.

The CHARLIE shirt’s relaxed, open collar design and wide short sleeves redefine warm-weather styling. Made from a luxurious blend of certified European Linen, it’s breezy, refined, and just bold enough.

3. Master Smart Layering

Layering isn’t just about warmth—it’s about depth, contrast, and structure. Here’s how to layer right:

  • Blazers over cotton shirts like ISAIAS for a boardroom-ready ensemble.

  • Shackets like DEREL over tees or even formal shirts for a smart-casual hybrid.

DEREL—a zip-up shirt-jacket crafted from a premium blend, offers relaxed tailoring with a modern edge. Wear it unzipped over a tucked-in shirt or closed with tailored pants to elevate your off-duty style.

4. Nail the Tuck: The Military Way

You’ve seen it before: a great shirt ruined by a sloppy tuck. Enter the military tuck: clean, simple, and foolproof.

How to do it:

  • Pull your shirt down smoothly.

  • Pinch the excess fabric at the sides.

  • Fold it back neatly and tuck it in.

Use this with any shirt—but especially with mens full sleeves shirts which are designed with length that stays put.

5. Accessorize Like You Mean It

A shirt alone doesn’t complete a look. Accessories do. Here’s how to make them work:

  • Ties: Pair bold ties with plain shirts, and keep things simple when your shirt features checks or textures.

  • Pocket Squares: Add a pop of color or texture. No two should match exactly—it’s an accent, not a set.

  • Cufflinks: For French cuffs, go minimal for work, a little quirky for drinks after.

And if you’re changing to switch from day to night? Do it with intention. Neat shirts like OTTO, which features a lightweight linen blend and a casual baseball collar, keep things effortless and cool.

6. Check Your Patterns and Play With Color

Basic blues and whites will always have their place. But when you're looking to stand out, it’s time to turn to patterns and color.

  • Go for subtle check shirts in muted tones for meetings.

  • Bold checks or textured fabrics like linen or TENCEL are perfect for weekends.

OTTO, with its slightly irregular texture and relaxed short-sleeve design, hits the sweet spot between casual and classy. Pair it with chinos or dress trousers and you’re golden.

7. Pair With the Right Bottoms and Footwear

The shirt might be your centerpiece, but the rest of your outfit needs to support it.

  • Trousers: Tailored pants in navy, grey, or beige work well with almost any shirt. With CHARLIE or OTTO, even relaxed linen pants or structured jeans can look polished.

  • Shoes: Brogues or loafers for formality, or clean sneakers for a more laid-back look.

Balance is key. If the shirt has structure, your trousers can be slightly softer in style. If your shirt is flowy and relaxed, go for more tailored bottoms.

Final Thoughts

Elevating your formal shirt style doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel. It’s about understanding how each element, from collar to cuff, texture to tuck—works together to reflect your personality and the occasion.

And when you're investing in stylish shirts for men, don't just look for trends—look for craftsmanship, sustainability, and versatility. Shirts like ISAIAS, DEREL, CHARLIE, and OTTO don’t just complete your look—they enhance it, while being kind to the planet, too.

So next time you button up, remember: the real power move is knowing how to wear it well.