Shirts at STRØM
The shirt is one of the most versatile items in your wardrobe. Find everything from summer shirts, formal and casual shirts for everyday wear, for both men and women.
The Story Behind the Patterns: Stripes, Checks, and Details
Classic shirt patterns have their roots in functional and historical work traditions:
- Bengal & Pinstripes (Stripes): Striped shirts originated in the 19th-century English banking and uniform world. The stripes added visual texture beneath dark suits and quickly became a staple of formal men’s attire.
- Checkered (Gingham & Tartan): Checkered patterns stem from traditional Scottish clan cloth (tartan) and French cotton weaving (gingham). Historically, these patterns were used for durable workwear, but today they are a staple of the casual everyday wardrobe.
- The Chest Pocket: Shirts with chest pockets originated in workwear and military uniforms, where functionality was essential. The chest pocket makes the shirt more casual, which is why plain shirts without pockets are the standard for formal wear.
The History of the Summer Shirt (Short-Sleeved Shirt)
The summer shirt originated in the early 1900s, when military personnel and workers in hot climates cut the sleeves off their uniforms. In the 1930s, the iconic Hawaiian shirt with its flat, open collar (camp collar) emerged, inspired by Caribbean workwear designed for maximum ventilation. In the 1950s, it was popularized by vacation culture and Hollywood icons. Today, it is made from everything from linen to silk and is a staple classic in the summer wardrobe.
FAQ: Styling, Care, and Maintenance of Shirts
When should you wear different colors, patterns, and chest pockets?
- White & Light Blue: Formal classics. White is the most formal choice for suits, weddings, and business settings. Light blue is slightly less formal but works perfectly for both the office and smart casual occasions.
- Dark & Bold Colors: Black, dark blue, and patterned shirts are best suited for casual occasions, evening wear, or as a more modern style choice.
- Shirts with a Pocket: A chest pocket makes the shirt more casual and practical. Wear shirts without a pocket with formal suits and for smart events, and save the pocket shirt for everyday wear, as an overshirt, or under a sweater.
How do you style a shirt for formal and casual occasions?
- Formal: Choose a solid-colored shirt in cotton or poplin without a chest pocket. Tuck it into your dress pants and pair it with a blazer and dressy leather shoes.
- Casual: Wear the shirt unbuttoned over a T-shirt, let it hang over a pair of jeans or chinos, or choose an overshirt in a heavy fabric with chest pockets. Roll up the sleeves for a more relaxed look.
How do you wash shirts properly, and how do you remove stains?
- Washing: Wash shirts at a maximum of 30–40 degrees, inside out, to protect the collar and buttons. Unbutton the shirt before washing to relieve tension on the buttons. Avoid tumble drying; instead, hang the shirt directly on a hanger after washing, while it is still damp.
- Stain Removal: Treat stains quickly before washing. Dab (do not rub) the stain with liquid dish soap or a mild stain remover and let it sit for 15 minutes before washing as usual. Never use bleach on colored shirts.
How do you iron a shirt correctly?
- Moisture: Always iron the shirt while it’s still slightly damp, or use the iron’s steam function.
- Order: Start with the collar (iron from the tips toward the center), then iron the cuffs, sleeves, and the yoke over the shoulders.
- Fit: Iron the front and back panels last. Hang the shirt on a hanger immediately after ironing with the top button fastened to preserve its shape.