Let's talk white dress shirt fabric
I am realizing that I am at point in my life where I am having to dress up more for work and friends' weddings. I want to start putting more effort into my clothing. I'm thinking in the next 6 months, I want to invest in a nicer white dress shirt than the CT one I have. This shirt will be worn under suits or sportscoats, so typical business attire. What is the ideal fabric for the situation?
I live in the Southwest US, so it is moderately warm. No one likes ironing, but I'm not opposed to it if I occasionally need to do it. Right now it's hypothetical, but I'll still list a budget of ~$200 including alterations. I ask fabric because I've just been browsing Proper Cloth fabrics and other shirt companies to see what's offered.
8 Replies
What do you think of the basic twill they have? https://propercloth.com/fabrics/lafayette-white-twill-2625.html
Proper Cloth
Lafayette White Twill Shirts by Proper Cloth
A luxurious twill that's perfect for the office or a big event. The white shirt is the keystone of your closet, and this one is an incredible value. Woven with a soft 80s 2-pl
I’m pretty sure I owned a shirt in this fabric and it was fine
what is unsatisfactory about the CT shirt?
i also think i had a shirt in this sort of fabric that was decent
broadcloth's a good option and lightweight, even stuff like linen or silk may be an option in warmer weather (you're trading breathabilty for a more intentionally rumpled look which may or may not be your taste). i've worn all three under sport coats without judgment
The shirt has non-iron treatment which is handy. But less breathable and runs kinda hot since it’s non-iron twill.
see above re. broadcloth
still an 'easy' fabric in terms of wrinkle maintenance but more breathable
How about pinpoint? Any experience with that?
i have a (single) pinpoint cotton shirt that is nice but is intentionally oversized so not my first choice for traditional dress shirts
it's a middle ground between broadcloth and oxford if that gives any perspective
that said if possible I'd try on dress shirts; aside from clothing enthusiasts most people won't discern much difference in what shirt you wear under a jacket
as opposed to the tangibles you experience like breathability or sheen or transparency
True. It’s just hard where I live. I suppose I can get the propercloth samples.