Men's Formal Shirts and Their Types: A Complete Guide

Amidst the obsession with hoodies, dopamine dressing, and post-pandemic hybrid wardrobes, you’d think men’s formal shirts would’ve lost their sheen. But reality says otherwise. Whether it’s BTS donning clean-cut shirts on red carpets or Jeremy Strong’s buttoned-up succession-core style reborn for Wall Street 2.0, the crisp shirt remains a wardrobe cornerstone.

Why? Because it’s the one piece that transitions seamlessly from client meetings to cocktails, from corporate offices to evening soirees, without ever looking out of place. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder or simply aiming to clean up nice, knowing your formal shirt styles gives you a sharper edge in both fashion and function.

What Defines a Formal Shirt for Men?

A formal shirt is a structured, collared shirt made to be worn with trousers, jackets, and sometimes ties. It usually features defined cuffs, a button-down front, and premium fabric like cotton or linen. But here’s the trick: not all dress shirts are built the same.

Think of them like investment portfolios. Some are high-risk-high-style (like cutaway collars), while others are evergreen (like classic white or blue shirts). Some fit boardrooms, others shine at weddings, and a few walk the line in hybrid office setups.

For example:

• A Classic White Shirt with hidden buttons and organic cotton (like this one from Primal Gray) is your all-season MVP: clean, subtle, breathable.
• On the other hand, a Pleated Shirt like this coral option brings subtle flair to monotone workwear with refined structure.

Here’s your complete guide to the different types of formal shirts and how to wear each one with confidence and style.

Types of Formal Shirts for Men (Based on Style)

Classic Dress Shirts

The backbone of every formal wardrobe. Characterised by a pointed collar and button-down front, this versatile option works with suits, under blazers, or even alone.

Try: Classic White Shirt in Organic Cotton. Tailored from GOTS-certified fabric, this one’s breathable, soft, and wrinkle-resistant.

French Cuff Shirts

Featuring extended cuffs fastened with cufflinks. Ideal for black-tie events or elevated formal gatherings.

Tuxedo Shirts

With wingtip collars and pleated fronts, these are made for pairing with tuxedos and bow ties. Reserved for weddings and galas.

Mandarin Collar Shirts

Minimal and modern, these collarless shirts lend a contemporary look. Best suited for cultural events or casual-formal evenings.

Spread and Cutaway Collars

Spread collars (like the ones on Primal Gray’s blue shirts) offer a wider collar angle, great for bold ties. Cutaway versions go even wider, giving a European, fashion-forward touch. 

Try: Classic Blue Shirt – Fair Trade Cotton. A relaxed fit shirt that flatters every occasion from meetings to semi-formals.

Types of Formal Shirts (Based on Fabric)

Cotton Formal Shirts

The gold standard: breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and perfect for all-day wear.

All of Primal Gray’s formal shirts are crafted from 97% GOTS-certified Fair Trade cotton, ensuring comfort, structure, and ethical style.

Linen Shirts

Lightweight and breezy, best for tropical climates or smart-casual work setups.

Blended or Performance Fabrics

Think stretchable cotton blends or wrinkle-free synthetics. Great for travel and long workdays.

Twill Weave Cotton

Provides a soft, lustrous finish with added durability. Most of Primal Gray’s shirts use cotton twill for its premium texture.

Collar Types and What They Say About You

• Classic Point Collar: Straightforward, professional, easy to pair with ties.
• Spread Collar: Stylish, wider space between collar tips, balances wide faces.
• Cutaway Collar: Bold, European, ideal with Windsor ties.
• Mandarin Collar: No tie needed, modern and sleek.

Cuff Types in Men's Formal Shirts

• Barrel Cuff: Common, everyday, and easy to roll.
• French Cuff: Elegant, requires cufflinks, adds instant luxury.
• Convertible Cuff: Works with or without cufflinks, good hybrid option.

Fit Guide: Which One Should You Pick?

• Slim Fit: Best for lean or athletic builds. Check out the Pleated Shirt with back pleat detail.
• Regular Fit: Universal and safe, ideal for most men.
• Loose Fit / Oversize: Modern, breathable, great for layering or relaxed formal events.

Try: Oversize Loose Shirt in Coral. Blends comfort with sophistication for business-casual or Friday dressing.

Design Features That Matter

• Hidden Plackets: Sleek, clean front with no visible stitching.

• Contrast Elements: Like this work shirt with a subtle blue pocket.

• Pleats or Patchwork: Adds movement, style, and uniqueness. 

See: Patchwork Shirt in  Asymmetrical Hem

How to Build Formal Shirt Combinations That Work

Pairing a formal shirt isn’t just about what looks good, it’s about what aligns with the vibe.
Some evergreen combos:

• White Shirt + Navy Suit + Brown Oxfords: Boardroom boss.
• Blue Shirt + Charcoal Trousers + Monk Straps: Elevated weekday uniform.
• Pleated Shirt + Tan Chinos + Loafers: Smart-casual with flair.
• Patchwork Shirt + Trousers + Brogues: Creative professional edge.

Formal Shirt Trends in 2025

• Eco-fabrics & Certifications like GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and ethical dyes.
• Relaxed Fits like Oversized shirts worn under structured jackets.
• Minimalist Textures for Subtle pleats and panels over prints.
• Soft Colours like Coral, sand, muted greys over loud patterns.

Try: Pleated Coral Shirt

Primal Gray Elevates Your Formal Shirt Game

From organic cotton dress shirts to oversized comfort-fit options, Primal Gray delivers a modern, breathable solution for today’s formalwear needs. Each piece is GOTS-certified, Fair Trade, and ethically dyed so you get style with substance.

Shop men’s formal shirts now on Primal Gray.

Key Takeaways

• Formal shirts for men include styles like classic, tuxedo, and mandarin. 
• Fabrics like cotton twill ensure breathability and professional polish. 
• Collar and cuff styles help define how formal or versatile the shirt is. 
• Pair shirts by occasion, structured fits for boardrooms, loose fits for hybrid days. 
• Use subtle design elements like hidden plackets and pleats to stand out. 
• Choose ethically-made options like Primal Gray’s organic range for long-term value.

FAQs 

1. What are the types of men's formal shirts?

There are several: classic dress shirts, tuxedo shirts, French cuff shirts, mandarin collar shirts, and cutaway collar shirts. Each style serves a different occasion, from office to wedding to creative settings.

2. How to choose a formal shirt?

Focus on fit (slim, regular, loose), collar style, and fabric. If you sweat easily, go for a breathable cotton twill. If you need versatility, pick shirts in white or blue shades with classic collars.

3. What styles are best for the office?

Stick to classic point collars, spread collars, and solid or subtly striped shirts. Slim or regular fits work well under blazers. Shirts like Primal Gray’s white or blue classics are great picks.

4. Are French cuff shirts formal?

Yes, French cuff shirts are highly formal and best suited for black-tie events. They require cufflinks and pair beautifully with tuxedos or dark suits.

5. How to care for formal shirts?

Wash in cold water with mild detergent. Avoid wringing or tumble drying if the shirt is made of organic cotton. Iron while slightly damp for best results. Always check label instructions.

6. What colors are best for formal shirts?

White and blue remain classics. Light greys, coral, and muted earthy tones are trending. Avoid overly loud prints for formal settings, unless in a creative field.

7. How to style formal shirts for events?

Pair with tailored trousers, a matching belt, and either dress shoes or loafers. For less formal events, unbutton the top, roll sleeves, and add a blazer. Layer relaxed fits over structured pants for modern smart-casual.

8. Where to buy formal shirts for men?

Look for brands offering breathable, well-tailored shirts like Primal Gray. Their shirts are GOTS-certified, ethically dyed, and tailored for both comfort and elegance.