How to Style a Shirt

A timeless and versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled in multiple ways, shirts are an essential part of your year-round outfit rotation. Available in an assortment of colours, patterns, styles and fits, there are many shirt styles available to choose from, each suited to a different occasion or event. All these options can feel quite overwhelming and knowing how to style a shirt in a way that’s right for the setting, whether for work, heading to town, or an occasion, while keeping up with recent trends, can be tricky.

That’s why we’ve put together this useful guide, to help you learn to style all different kinds of shirts for a range of different circumstances. And while there are many different ways to style a shirt, most of this will be down to your own individual style. At Barbour, our shirts are made with premium fabrics and are versatile enough to be styled with a variety of outfits. Whether you’re searching for a long-sleeved shirt to style over winter, or the transitional seasons, or you’re looking for a shorter sleeved option to wear over a t-shirt during the warmer months, our guide provides some expert styling advice.

How to style a button up shirt

The perfect piece for any smart-casual gathering, if you’re looking for inspiration on how to style a button up shirt, the men’s Barbour Oxtown Tailored Shirt in navy is complete with contrasting white buttons and a subtle Barbour logo to achieve a statement appearance. This authentic men’s shirt allows for easy fastening through a simple button-up style. To create a full outfit using this shirt as the centrepiece, we would recommend pairing this with the Neuston Twill Trousers for men. Designed in a classic sand colour, the regular fit cotton material means that although these men’s trousers look smart, they will never compromise on either comfort or function.

If you’re wondering how to style a shirt so it looks great year-round, the men’s Brockstone Jacket creates an additional layer while boasting an effortlessly timeless appearance. Featuring a dark olive colour drawing on our classic countrywear roots, the spacious pockets also allow ample storage for essentials, adding a touch of practicality to a distinctive men’s countrywear piece. The waterproof outer also makes it suitable for wearing in all conditions. Complete the look with the Lago trainers for men. Though the design is inspired by athleisure, these trainers can be worn to a range of settings. Boasting a sleek black appearance, the soft-suede material makes it well-suited to other smart-casual attire while offering elite comfort.

With a design and colour driven by our coastal heritage, the Barbour men’s Seaswell Summer Shirt is cut to a flattering fit ideal for the summer months. Featuring a light and airy design and feel, this provides the ultimate relaxed wardrobe piece. Complete with an effortlessly soft finish and signature branding, the shirt is designed to be a seasonal go-to, though this piece can also be layered any time of year. If you’re looking to create a stylish contrast, this shirt is great for wearing with the versatile Barbour regular fit jeans. These are finished with an authentic design with refined stitch detailing for a classic appearance.

Whether you’re looking to wear a warming outer layer, or you’re searching for a smart way to complete your outfit, the men’s patch zip-through sweater provides an effortless solution. Designed in a high-neck and buttoned-up style, this is the perfect piece to wear during colder days. Following a contemporary, refined design, finish the look with the men’s Deckham Boots, which offer a durable style and simple fastening. 

How to wear a shirt over a t-shirt

With a classic blue tartan print that draws on our brand heritage, the Barbour Croft Short Sleeve Shirt for men creates a sophisticated addition to any wardrobe. An iconic wardrobe staple suited to everyday wearing, we recommend wearing this men’s shirt over a plain white t-shirt. However, this button-up check shirt can be worn as a standalone if you prefer. Following a comfortable and easy to wear style, the shirt is crafted from a linen blend. For the ultimate casual look, pair with the Barbour Neuston Stretch Cord Trouser in navy. A staple part of our core essentials range, these versatile trousers offer a stretch style, meaning they can be comfortably worn to anywhere, whether you’re going for a walk or heading to town.

A versatile outfit, the men’s Rosemount gilet can be layered over this shirt with comfort. Whether you’re going for a walk in the country, by the coast, or you’re heading to another setting, this men’s gilet is designed with an inner fleece lining for optimum comfort. Featuring a classic olive colour and quilted pattern, this men’s gilet helps transform your outfit from smart to casual. Looking for some more smart gear to add to the look? Fusing style, function and durability, add the hard-wearing men’s Barbour Boulder boots. Designed in a stylish mocha, the boots feature refined detailing for added sophistication.

How to style a check shirt

Designed in our signature light-coloured hibiscus check pattern, the women’s Shoreline Shirt is cut to a relaxed feminine fit for an all-round flattering look. This sought-after women’s shirt is perfect for pairing with denim shorts or the women’s Essential Slim Jean for the ultimate casual appearance. A must-have wardrobe staple, these contemporary women’s jeans are a versatile piece crafted from a cotton blend denim fabric for a touch of everyday comfort, while also offering a timeless five-pocket design for added functionality and style. 

The sophisticated women’s Barbour Deveron jacket adds a touch of formality to the women’s check shirt and jeans combination. Complete with a corduroy colour for an authentic look, this women’s coat provides a smart and warming additional layer when it’s needed. Featuring two spacious patch pockets to the front, this elegant women’s coat includes ample storage space for all your essentials wherever you’re heading. The ideal finishing touch, complete the outfit with the timeless Barbour Camelia women’s Chelsea Boots. With all the classic detailing of a Chelsea boot, including leather uppers and elasticated side gussets, this elegant ladies footwear style additionally features diamond stitch details to the rear and a modern cleated sole. Drawing closely on our heritage, the boots are rounded off with our authentic tartan trims.

Featuring a classic tartan print, the Barbour Pendula Shirt for women follows an iconic signature Barbour style. A functional piece that can be styled with jeans, skirts, shorts or other casual pieces, this women’s shirt has been cut to a contemporary fit for timeless styling. Though the piece provides freedom when it comes to styling with other everyday fits, we recommend pairing this with our women’s Essential Slim Trousers. Designed with careful detailing, including five-pocket styling, the trousers achieve a harmonious balance between comfort and style. These are finished with an added stretch for comfort and a narrow fit. 

Elevate your outfit with the Barbour Marie Cardigan (coming soon) for women, which is made with an iconic jacquard check design. Featuring a traditional buttoned style, this women’s cardigan provides a comfortable and classic layering option. Whether you’re heading out into a countryside setting with your outfit, or you’re on your way to town, the women’s Barbour Evie boots in brown feature a high ankle for extra protection. Crafted from premium leather for added durability, the lightweight sole allows for enhanced comfort to help you move freely wherever you’re heading to. 

Find a staple shirt at Barbour

Whether you’re searching for an overshirt to wear over your favourite Barbour top for a casual day, or you’re looking for inspiration on how to style a more formal button up shirt for an upcoming event, hopefully our guide has provided some inspiration on how to style a shirt. If you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe with some brand new shirts, browse our full range of Barbour men’s and women’s shirts and discover an assortment of unique colours, patterns and styles.