In the world of menswear, trends come and go. But when it comes to dressing for summer, there is one type of shirt that’s always in bloom: floral shirts for men. No longer reserved for Hawaiian holiday or beach parties, floral shirts have become a staple in every gentleman's wardrobe.
With their vibrant colours and intricate patterns, floral shirts offer a refreshing and unique alternative to traditional plain shirts. To help you understand why you need to add one to your rotation, we’re going to explore the versatility and style potential of men's floral shirts—providing you with inspiration and tips on how to incorporate them into your wardrobe.
The Evolution of Floral Shirts for Men
Floral prints have a rich history in fashion, dating back centuries. Originally associated with femininity, floral patterns gradually found their way into men's fashion. The iconic Hawaiian shirt, featuring bold floral designs, gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s. However, today's men's floral shirts have evolved far beyond the confines of tropical themes. Modern designs encompass a wide range of styles, from subtle micro florals to large-scale botanical prints, offering something for everyone.
How to Choose the Right Floral Shirt
When it comes to floral shirts for men, the print you choose can make a significant difference in your overall look. Here are a few tips to help you select the right floral print for your style:
Scale and Proportion
Consider your body type and personal style when choosing the scale of the floral print. If you have a larger frame, opt for shirts with larger prints. These help to create a more balanced look. Conversely, if you have a smaller frame, choose shirts with smaller, more intricate floral patterns to avoid overwhelming your physique.
Colour Palette
Floral shirts come in a variety of colour combinations, but you should opt for those that complement your skin tone and existing wardrobe. If you prefer a more subdued look, go for men’s shirts with darker hues, such as navy, burgundy or forest green. If you want to make a bolder statement, you may wish to experiment with vibrant colours like teal.
Occasion & Season
Consider the occasion and season when selecting a floral shirt for men. For formal events or professional settings, think about shirts with more subdued or monochromatic floral patterns. During spring and summer, why not embrace the season with vibrant, colourful floral prints?
How to Style a Floral Shirt
Styling a men's floral shirt can be a fun and creative process. It can also be a little daunting if you’ve never tried it before.
Here are some tips to help you wear your new floral shirt with confidence:
Keep it Simple
Let the floral shirt be the standout piece in your outfit by keeping the rest of your look simple. Pair the shirt with solid-coloured trousers like chinos or denim jeans. This approach ensures that the shirt remains the focal point and prevents your outfit from appearing too busy.
Neutral Complements
When styling a floral shirt for men, stick to for neutral-coloured pieces to complement the vibrant patterns. Neutral tones like white, beige, navy or black work well with floral prints. For example, pair a white floral shirt with beige chinos or a navy floral shirt with black denim. This allows the shirt to shine while maintaining a balanced and cohesive look.
Layering
Layering is a great way to add depth and dimension to your outfit. For a casual and contemporary look, layer your floral shirt with a lightweight denim or Harrington jacket. This adds a stylish touch to your ensemble and allows you to adjust your outfit according to the weather or occasion. Remember to keep the jacket fuss-free so that it complements the colours in your floral shirt and doesn’t fight against it.
Tonal Matching
For a more fashion-forward approach, experiment with tonal matching. Choose a floral shirt that incorporates a colour similar to the rest of your outfit. For example, if you're wearing some olive-green chinos, opt for a floral shirt with hints of green in the pattern. This creates a cohesive and harmonious look that demonstrates your attention to detail.
Pattern Mixing
If you're feeling bold and adventurous, you can try mixing patterns with your floral shirt for men. However, this requires a good understanding of pattern coordination. Don’t just rush ahead and throw anything together.
Start by pairing your floral shirt with a subtle pattern like thin stripes or a small-scale gingham. Ensure that the patterns complement each other not clash. For example, a floral shirt with small flowers can be paired with a striped blazer or a gingham pair of shorts. The key is to balance the patterns and create a visually appealing combination.
Rolled-Up Sleeves
For a relaxed and casual vibe, roll up the sleeves of your floral shirt. This small styling trick adds a laid-back touch to your outfit and gives a nod to summer fashion. It also allows you to showcase any complementary accessories like a watch or bracelet.
What Accessories to Wear With a Floral Shirt
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Complete your floral shirt ensemble with the right accessories. Keep them minimal and complementary to the overall look. Consider adding a leather belt, watch or a subtle pocket square (if wearing a jacket). These accessories add a polished touch without overpowering the floral shirt.
What Shoes to Wear With a Floral Shirt
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Choose footwear that complements the overall style and occasion. For a casual and relaxed look, opt for loafers, boat shoes or canvas trainers. If you're dressing up a bit more, you may wish to consider leather dress shoes or suede loafers. The goal is to choose footwear that enhances the overall aesthetic of your outfit while keeping it appropriate for the occasion.
Final Word
Floral shirts for men have undoubtedly become a must-have summer staple—offering a fresh and exciting alternative to traditional shirts. With their versatility and style potential, these shirts can be dressed up or down for various occasions.
Whether you're attending a casual brunch or a summer wedding, incorporating a floral shirt into your wardrobe can add a touch of vibrancy and personality to your style. So, instead of shying away from this season’s floral trend, let your fashion bloom with confidence.
Can you wear a tie with a floral shirt?
Wearing a tie with a floral shirt requires some careful consideration. To pull it off, choose a tie with a subtle pattern or solid colour that complements (not clashes) with the print of your shirt. You should also pay attention to the scale of the shirt pattern and choose a tie that contrasts in scale. If the floral pattern is bold and large, opt for a tie with a smaller, more subtle pattern. Alternatively, if the floral pattern is small, you can go for a tie with slightly bolder patterns, such as thin stripes or a geometric design.
