Men's Style Blog
Section: Essential Men's Business Shirts - Blog
Have you ever heard the old saying about "losing your shirt?" This saying refers to someone who lost their money through bad investments, extravagant spending, or other foolish means.
When you purchase your formal and custom shirts from experts like Montagio, you won't worry about making a bad investment. You'll make one of the best investments of your life, and you'll enjoy wearing your tailor made shirts for almost any occasion.
Tailors often refer to shirt fabrics as “shirtings.” Those numbers occasionally listed alongside the fabric name denote the thickness of the yarn from which the fabric was made. The higher the number, the thinner the yarn. Hence, the thinner the yarn, the finer the cloth and the higher its price.
Most fabric names refer to a particular method of weaving used in making the shirt. The most common fabric used for business shirts is cotton.
Oxford cloth is the coarsest shirting although it is quite soft and comfortable. Primarily used to make shirts with button-down collars, it is a more casual fabric. In Oxford shirts having different patterns and colours, only the threads running in one direction are dyed while the others are left white. This creates the fabric's textured appearance.
Woven similarly, pinpoint oxford is made from finer yarn, which gives it a more formal, smoother look. Royal oxford is finer still and will complement a fine wool men's suit and an expensive tie.
Featuring a smoother texture but with the same weight, poplin is created from an amalgamation of a fine yarn that runs one way, interwoven with another thicker one. Because of its softness and comfort, it is used for casual shirts, especially those with sporty patterns.
Cotton twill, which is a shimmery diagonal weave textile, is used for richly textured shirts without compromising on their degree of formalness. The direction of the diagonals keeps switching back and forth every quarter of an inch or so in herringbone twill fabrics. This characteristic provides greater depth to this particular fabric. When the occasion demands you wear a solid shirt, twill plays its role with ease.
Broadcloth is finer still, made of fine yarn woven so tightly that it gleams. End-on-end broadcloth is made by interweaving threads of alternating colours for a visual texture so subtle, it appears solid when viewed from afar. Because of its tight weave, this cloth displays patterns with exquisite precision.
Formal shirtsworn with tailor made men's suits are usually made of white pique cotton that has a rich, woven texture. This is the only shirt that can be worn with black or white ties and appears inappropriate when worn with a different coloured tie.
Besides pure cotton, all the fabrics mentioned here are available in cotton/polyester blends. These are comparatively less expensive and can be worn without ironing. However, they do not look as rich or feel as smooth as shirts made of pure cotton.
No-iron, 100% cotton shirts offer the rich look of natural fibres with the ease of synthetics. However, select good quality ones that will not irritate your skin like some low quality shirts might, even if their prices are slightly higher. It is worthwhile to note synthetic fibres tend to get itchy and uncomfortable in extreme heat i.e. over 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
When you're in the market for a new custom business shirt or formal shirt, be sure to take a look at the styling options and shirtings we offer atMontagio Custom Tailoring. Our expert tailors will lead you through the process from measuring to fitting to choosing your final accessories for your brand new shirt.
Image Credit © Lucaph | Dreamstime.com
With over 20,000 satisfied clients, Montagio's distinction as the top-rated tailor in Sydney and Brisbane is no coincidence. Our success lies in our commitment to personalisation, ensuring each suit is a true reflection of the individual wearing it. Unlike others, we focus on providing unparalleled service, meticulous attention to detail, and an array of bespoke options, making every Montagio suit a testament to quality and individuality. If it lacks that personal touch, it simply isn't Montagio.
Behind every Montagio suit is a team of expert tailors dedicated to precision, craftsmanship, and personal service. Get to know the masters who bring your vision to life, ensuring every suit is as unique as the person wearing it.
James Goodchild
With over 15 years of experience in suiting and 8 years at Montagio, James Goodchild has custom-fitted over 3,000 suits, achieving $8 million in lifetime sales and earning a reputation as a trusted bespoke tailoring expert. Passionate about bold statement suits and meticulous craftsmanship, he believes true greatness lies in integrity and influence, much like a well-tailored suit that leaves a lasting impression.
Book @ Sydney
Aaron Bry
Aaron began his career in 2002 and has deep expertise in tailoring and luxury menswear, achieving multi-million-dollar sales and earning induction into MJ Bale’s Million Dollar Club... twice. Now converted to custom, he is committed to excellence in both style and service and believes in always being impeccably presented. Outside of work, he enjoys bodybuilding and films, often described as a 'gentle giant' for his approachable nature.
Book @ Sydney
Raul Rodriguez
Raul is an experienced tailor with a deep passion for bespoke suiting, combining precision, craftsmanship, and a keen eye for detail to create impeccably fitted garments. Known for his ability to blend classic tailoring with bold, modern touches, he works closely with clients to craft suits that reflect their personality and style. For Raul, a well-made suit is more than clothing - it’s a statement of confidence, sophistication, and individuality.
Book @ Brisbane
Named in GQ Magazine's "Best Tailors" list, and the highest reviewed tailor on Google, Montagio has paved the way for discerning men to get suited up with style. A truly personalised experience, we deliver perfectly fitted bespoke suits, shirts and coats for business, weddings, formal and casual events. Our showrooms are packed with designs that inspire and thousands of fabrics, making it easy for you to get the look you want. Our difference? We won't let you walk out until we've tailored your perfect garment. It's personal. To experience Montagio's red-carpet service, book your personal appointment today.
