Different Types of Shirts & Collar Styles Explained: A Global Style Guide
If you’ve ever looked at someone and thought, “Why does their shirt just work?” this article explains exactly why.
Let’s Start With the Truth Not all shirts are created equal, and no, calling everything a “shirt” is not enough. Each shirt style has: A name, A distinct structure, A specific vibe, A purpose. Once you understand how they look and where they belong, your fashion sense automatically levels up. Let’s break them down globally.
Introduction: Why Shirts Define Modern Style
Shirts are more than clothing, they are statements of identity, culture, and professionalism.
From classic Western dress shirts to African senator styles and modern streetwear, shirts reflect how men express style across the world. Yet, many people wear shirts daily without truly understanding the difference between shirt types and collar styles.
This guide breaks down the most important shirt types and collar designs worldwide, helping you dress smarter, sharper, and with confidence.
PART 1: GLOBAL SHIRT TYPES
Section Intro: Understanding Shirt Types
Shirt types are defined by their structure, fabric, purpose, and cultural influence.
Each shirt type serves a unique role in fashion, from casual comfort to formal elegance.
1. T-Shirt — The Universal Essential
Key Features:
-
No buttons
-
Round or V-neck
-
Short sleeves
Best for: Casual wear, street style, layering.
2. Polo Shirt — The Smart Casual Classic
Key Features:- Soft collar
- Buttoned neckline
Best for: Business casual, social events.
3. Oxford Shirt — The Smart-Casual Icon
Key Features:
- Button-down collar
- Textured cotton fabric
Best for: Offices, casual suits.
4. Dress Shirt — Formal Power Piece
Key Features:
- Structured collar
- Long sleeves
Best for: Corporate wear, ceremonies.
5. Cuban Collar Shirt — Retro Modern Statement
Key Features:
- Open flat collar
- Boxy cut
Best for: Summer, resort wear.
6️⃣ Denim Shirt — Rugged & Timeless
How it looks:
Button-up shirt made from denim or chambray, often with chest pockets.
Why it matters:
It’s casual but strong, perfect for layering.
7️⃣ Linen Shirt — Heat-Friendly Luxury
How it looks:
Lightweight, airy fabric, slightly wrinkled texture, relaxed fit.
Why it matters:
Ideal for warm climates like Africa. Breathable and stylish without effort.
8️⃣ Flannel Shirt — Street & Comfort
How it looks:
Soft fabric, usually checkered, long sleeves.
Why it matters:
Popular in streetwear and casual fashion globally.
9️⃣ Ankara Shirt — African Expression
How it looks:
Bold wax-print fabric, vibrant colors, often short-sleeved or tailored long-sleeve.
Where it’s from:
Widely worn across West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal).
Why it matters:
It blends culture, identity, and modern fashion.
🔟 Senator Shirt — Modern African Formal
How it looks:
Structured neckline, clean embroidery, tailored silhouette, usually collarless.
Where it’s from:
Nigeria (popular in the South-East & South-South).
Why it matters:
A modern African alternative to Western formal shirts.
1️⃣1️⃣ Dashiki Top — Heritage in Fabric
How it looks:
Loose-fitting, embroidered neckline, bold patterns.
Where it’s from:
West Africa.
Why it matters:
Symbolic, expressive, cultural.
1️⃣2️⃣ Kaftan Shirt — Effortless Elegance
How it looks:
Loose, flowing top, often knee-length, minimal structure.
Where it’s from:
West & North Africa.
Why it matters:
Luxury comfort with cultural depth.
Where DexStitches.com Comes In ✂️✨
DexStitches.com understands one simple truth:
Style is global. Fit is personal.
At DexStitches:
Global shirt styles meet African craftsmanship
Shirts are designed to fit real bodies
African-inspired pieces are modern, wearable, and timeless
From tailored dress shirts to contemporary African styles, DexStitches makes it easy to shop fashion that looks intentional, not accidental.
🛍️ Explore styles.
🧵 Choose tailoring.
🌍 Wear Africa globally.
👉 Shop now at DexStitches.com
