Contrast Shirts

Last Updated on Wednesday, 04 November 2009 12:05 Sunday, 01 November 2009 23:21

Contrast shirts, once the preserve of stock brokers and investment bankers are making a comeback. This time round they are more laid back and casual, although a contrast shirt in a suit still evokes the image of a businessman with the ethics of a shark.

Ralph Laurn Regent Shirt $155

A contrast shirt at it's most basic has a different color collar to the body of the shirt. Shirt pockets and cuffs can also be styled in the collar color and the shirts can be plain, striped or checkered. Modern takes on the contrast shirt sees a lot of striped and checkered patterns and these can be harder to match with suits.

Colors have branched out from the traditional white collar-blue shirt (which is still the most popular choice) to a huge range of browns, greys, tans and pinks. Only this year have the shirts really moved into the high street from from the custom made tailors and designer shops. Contrast shirts are still in the minority and rare enough to turn heads when worn.

Contrast shirts worn with a suit lend an air of gravitas, confidence and a touch of mastery to the wearer. Worn with a smart pants they look rich-casual and are perfect for informal office functions, or even as an alternative to the suit. If you go one step further and wear a contrast shirt with a cardigan, you're certainly into that preppy look so either wear the shirt on its own, or with a jacket to keep a look of masculinity about.

The revival of the contrast shirt has been ongoing for the whole of 2009 and looks set to extend well into 2010. Originating in the 80's, the shirts are in line with all the fashion revivals we've seen from that recessionary period.

Matching Contrast Shirts

If you're going to pull off the contrast shirt, it has to match your suit. The same basic rules of matching suits, ties and shirts apply.  As a general rule, you should match the dominant color in the shirt with the suit. If there are two colors (besides white) in the shirt,  you can always select a tie that hooks up with the secondary color in the shirt for a fashion co-ordinated look. Don't be afraid to plump for a contrasting tie to the shirt - particularly with contrast shirts, the results can be stunning. Use the color wheel to match up your ties and shirts, either by using a color opposite from your shirt color, or next to it.

Tommy Hilfiger Austin Slim

This casual contrast shirt from Tommy Hilfiger is 100% content and features a white collar, pocket and curved hem. From $140. More details HERE.

Topman

For those on a budget, you can still achieve a sophisticated and sharp look. This blue/white contrast shirt from Topman is $42 with a sharp white collar. Change the tie to something more of a contrast color and you got yourself a winner! Full details here.

Fred Perry

Lightweight cotton contrast shirt by Fred Perry. Black Striped. Ideal for office-casual. From $110.