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If your go-to shirt is a long-sleeve button-down, it may be time to freshen up the wardrobe with the addition of some similar short-sleeve options. Having the option of both types of shirts can help make getting dressed in the morning easier while being easy to style in the warmer months.
Below are some on-trend men’s short-sleeve collard button-down shirts. These shirts come in a variety of fits including relaxed, classic, and modern that can easily be dressed up or down and will really make all the difference depending on the occasion.
We have also included some authentic short-sleeve style workshirts that are rugged, durable, and can take you from a long day at work to drinks with friends. There are also a variety of colors and patterns from which to choose from the sophisticated check patterns or stripes to a bunch of fun prints such as sharks, donuts, and hamburgers.
Our Favorite Men’s Short Sleeve Collard Button-Down Shirt
Amazon Essentials Poplin Shirt — Best Overall
Made from a cool and crisp cotton poplin fabric, this short-sleeve button-down is a great go-to for any occasion. It has a regular and flattering, not too slim, not too loose fit with a chest pocket, rear side pleats, and rounded hem. This shirt easily pairs with jeans and slacks and makes a comfortable and office-appropriate shirt during the summer months.
Pros
- These are minimally-wrinkling shirts
Cons
- There are no solid color options
Hurley Short Sleeve — Runner Up
This casual skate-style button-down is made from a unique woven textured fabric. This shirt has a single pocket at the chest area, classic fit short sleeves, and a slightly slimmer, stylish fit. This top makes the perfect casual top for all-day wear and can be worn tucked in or out.
Pros
- This shirt comes in seven different color options
Cons
- This shirt runs slightly on the smaller end
Wrangler Woven Shirt — Honorable Mention
This short-sleeve button-down is a durable option for any outdoor work or play. Made from 100% cotton, this shirt is also washed for softness to keep you extra comfortable, and, with its relaxed fit, gives you enough room to move around.
Pros
- This shirt comes in a variety of unique plaid designs
Cons
- This shirt may not be heavy enough to wear alone in colder climates
Goodthreads Shirt — Editor's Pick
This short-sleeve button-down is another casually-cool option that is as perfect for relaxing on the weekend as it is for a casual day a the office. Made with tumbled cotton material, this top is soft yet sturdy with a custom, lived-in feel right away, and its slim fit gives it a modern look.
Pros
- This top has a slightly tapered waist for a more tailored look and feel
Cons
- If you prefer a more relaxed fitting shirt, another option might be better
FLY HAWK Shirt — Best Value for Money
For a slightly dressier short sleeve shirt, this one is a great option. Made from a unique combination of materials, including naturally eco-friendly bamboo, this shirt is soft on the skin, breathable, and has natural moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry. This shirt also has a slim, modern fit with plenty of stretch to keep you comfortable and mobile.
Pros
- Advanced dying technology keeps this shirt from fading
Cons
- This shirt runs one size small
Visive Printed Shirts — Best Patterns
With over 50 unique prints to choose from and two different material options, this unique button-down is sure to have an option for everyone. Whether you choose from 100% cotton or a cotton and polyester blend, this shirt has a modern, slightly slim fit, left chest pocket, and a generous size range.
Pros
- With all the fun print options, this shirt makes a great holiday gift for all the men in your life
Cons
- Due to their slim fit, it is advised to size up
Dickies Shirt — Also Consider
This classic work shirt is another specially made shirt with a relaxed fit, button front, and made from a sturdy material blend. The generous fit gives plenty of room for movement and allows for durable and comfortable all-day wear while providing moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry. Finally, a specifically designed square hem helps it stay tucked in and ensures it looks clean and neat when worn untucked.
Pros
- Two chest flap pockets have button closure detail with a convenient pencil division on one of the pockets
Cons
- It is advised to refer to the size chart to ensure proper sizing
Buying Guide: Men’s Short Sleeve Collard Button-Down Shirts
The secret to rocking a short-sleeved, collard button-down shirt is finding one that compliments your physique and pairs well with other clothing items you are wearing. With this guide, you can make your selection knowing you are aware of the essentials of buying this type of shirt. Keep reading.
Select a Fabric That Speaks to You
Most of the time, when you are purchasing a button-down shirt, you have an occasion, event, or a purpose in mind. This will help you decide which fabric you should go for. Whether you’re getting it for a formal occasion or regular office, you should be aware of the fabric options you have available to make an informed decision. So, here are your choices:
Linen or cotton chambray
If your priority is comfort above all, then this fabric will fit your purpose. They are natural fabrics that are breathable, durable, and easy to care for.
Fine cotton
It is a lightweight fabric that offers great heat and moisture transmission. Plus, it feels good against the skin and is easy to iron. Cotton types, such as Egyptian cotton and Sea Island, are considered superior quality raw materials for dress shirts.
Flannel or standard oxford
These fabrics are slightly heavy, but they have a fine texture and are considered durable. Most importantly, they don’t wrinkle easily, so if you’re out in a hurry and don’t have time to press your shirt, you can pick this one up and wear it!
Man-made fiber
Polyesters, nylon, etc., types of fabrics fall under this category. These fabrics don’t have cotton-like characteristics, but they are resistant to stains and wrinkles and are budget-friendly.
Picking Out a Placket Style
If you’re not acquainted with the term, the placket is the vertical strip of the fabric where the buttonholes are lined up. It is placed towards the left front side of the panel. The placket is responsible for retaining and reinforcing the front side of your button-down shirt. Even though it’s a minute detail, it can affect the entire look of your shirt. There are two basic types of plackets you can choose from:
Fly front
This type has a flap on the front that conceals the buttons at the bottom. It is usually worn to formal settings with a tuxedo or suit because the fly front diverts attention towards the bow tie.
Standard placket
It is the most common type of placket, which includes 1-2 inches long fabric either attached as a separate piece with noticeable stitching on both sides or folded piece. It gives the shirt a symmetrical look.
Selecting Attractive Colors and Patterns
Clothes are not just something to be worn; they represent your personality through the color you pick or the pattern you select. Are you going to a formal or casual event? Does your button-down shirt go with the rest of your outfit? By making these choices, you curate the message you are sending to others through your shirt. Whether you are aiming for uniqueness or credibility, boldness, or a laid-back attitude, your choice of colors and patterns can help you radiate that vibe.
For formal events or daily office attire, solid colors like white, blue, and gray are well-suited. For a casual or social setting with family or friends, you can go with striped or checked patterns as they give off a relaxed look. If you are someone who likes to deviate from normalcy, bright colors or floral patterns would work with your personality. However, these types of colors and patterns are better suited for informal dinner parties, weddings, afternoons by the beach.
