Shirts, trousers and basics
How to wear a denim shirt
By sneakersInn team · Updated
A denim shirt is easiest with non-denim trousers, such as stone, olive or black chinos, or worn open over a plain tee as a light layer. It also works under a navy or grey knit for smart casual. Choose a light or mid wash in a lightweight denim or chambray so it stays comfortable in the heat.
| Outfit | Pieces | Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Smart casual | Mid-wash denim shirt, stone chinos | Brown loafers |
| Layered | Denim shirt open over a white tee, black jeans | White sneakers |
| Office-friendly | Chambray shirt, navy knit, grey trousers | Derbies |
| Evening | Dark denim shirt, black trousers | Black leather sneakers |
| Weekend | Light denim shirt, olive shorts | Canvas sneakers |
What is the difference between denim and chambray?
Denim is a twill weave with a diagonal texture and is heavier. Chambray is a plain weave that looks similar but is lighter and smoother, which makes it cooler and smarter. In Accra, chambray is often the better shirt.
Can I wear a denim shirt with jeans?
Yes, carefully. Make the washes clearly different (a light shirt with dark jeans), and keep everything else simple. Same-shade denim head to toe looks like a uniform.
How should it fit?
Like any casual shirt: shoulders on your shoulders, a little room in the body, a straight hem if you'll wear it untucked. See the 5 shirts every man needs.
Can I wear it to work?
A chambray shirt with tailored trousers and a knit is smart enough for many business casual offices. See layering a knit over a shirt.
How do I wash denim shirts?
Inside out, cool water, with dark colours for the first few washes, hang to dry in the shade. Denim fades with each wash and in the sun.
Questions
Is a denim shirt the same as an overshirt?
Heavier denim shirts can be worn open like an overshirt. See overshirts.
What about a denim jacket?
See the 5 jackets every man should have.
What colours go with denim?
White, grey, black, olive, stone and navy. See colour matching for men.