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How to Buy the Perfect White Shirt

The men's wardrobe staple has more nuances than it would appear

By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 27, 2009 12:47 PM CDT

(Newser) – Like the little black dress for women, the white shirt is the cornerstone of a man’s wardrobe—and small differences between shirts can make a big statement when it comes to your appearance. GQ offers tips on how to select the perfect staple:

  • Fit your body type: The shirt should neither balloon nor be too tight. Box pleats are a stylish way to gain a little more room.

  • Find the right color: But it’s white, right? Not so: Some companies have more than 400 white fabrics. Material is another important factor—Egyptian and Sea Isle cottons are the nicest.
  • Get the collar right: “A medium collar is modern. Too big and you look like a dandy. Too small and you look like you shopped in the boys’ department,” one designer says.
  • Keep it white: Sweat stains can ruin your prize white shirt, so utilize stain remover, wash in hot water, air dry, and iron—but don’t starch, it eats away at fabric.
For the complete list, click the link below.

Fashion designer Tom Ford arrives at the premiere of Valentino: The Last Emperor in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.
Fashion designer Tom Ford arrives at the premiere of "Valentino: The Last Emperor" in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.   (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)
This undated photo provided by Tom Ford shows Daniel Craig in a tuxedo designed by Tom Ford.
This undated photo provided by Tom Ford shows Daniel Craig in a tuxedo designed by Tom Ford.   (AP Photo/Tom Ford)
A model walks the catwalk during the Saxony collection show as part of the Myer Spring/Summer Collection Launch at the Carriageworks on August 8, 2007 in Sydney, Australia.
A model walks the catwalk during the Saxony collection show as part of the Myer Spring/Summer Collection Launch at the Carriageworks on August 8, 2007 in Sydney, Australia.   (Getty Images)
A model walks the catwalk during the Blaq collection show as part of the Myer Spring/Summer Collection Launch at the Carriageworks on August 8, 2007 in Sydney, Australia.
A model walks the catwalk during the Blaq collection show as part of the Myer Spring/Summer Collection Launch at the Carriageworks on August 8, 2007 in Sydney, Australia.   (Getty Images)
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COMMENTS
Showing 2 of 2 comments
NxBigmouthery
Jul 28, 2009 12:41 PM CDT
I'm 40 next month. I know how to buy a shirt...call Mum and say 'Mama, I need a shirt and I did a poopy...'
kokuaguy
Jul 27, 2009 10:14 AM CDT
My next shirt purchase -- probably go to Sears. Of course here in the Isles, the Aloha shirt is suitable for (almost) all occasions. ; ^)

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