Where are you heading?
This may sound obvious, but it’s still an essential first step. There are several ways to wear a shirt under a sweater, but you only get one chance to make the right impression. Of course, there’s less pressure when you’re meeting friends. In that case, you can easily go for a casual shirt with a relaxed hoodie or a good cardigan for drinks on a terrace. In situations like this, it’s perfectly fine to wear the shirt untucked and even let it show from underneath your sweater.
For business appointments, it becomes a lot trickier. You want to strike the right level of professionalism. A formal shirt with the classic pullover is a logical combination. Still, don’t be put off by expectations and unwritten rules; you’ve got plenty of freedom to let your personality come through in your outfit!
What does the shirt look like?
When choosing a shirt, pay close attention to the details. Even the collar style can make a real difference to your overall look. Collars such as Button Down, Cutaway and Widespread are less likely to shift. Ideal for formal occasions. For a business-ready look, wear the collar tucked into your knit.
For a more relaxed look, wear it outside the knit. As for the knitwear itself: a good rule of style to keep in mind is that a crew neck gives you a more formal appearance, as it helps keep the collar in place. A V-neck, on the other hand, feels more laid-back because it shows more of your shirt.
It also gives you the option to leave a few buttons undone. Just make sure both pieces fit your body well. That way, you avoid a pullover or jumper hanging messily over your shirt.
Which colours will you wear?
Shirts come in every colour imaginable. At the same time, this can be a pitfall for many men—because which colours actually work best together? A good starting point is to look at your colour type. This means matching the colours in your outfit to your hair, skin and eyes.
If that only makes things less clear, you can always fall back on the classics. Let the shirt set the tone for the colour of your jumper. Try not to go for anything too bold here. The aim is to keep your colour choices balanced. The most effective combinations are contrasting colours or different shades of the same colour. Think of:
- A white shirt with a dark jumper
- A light blue shirt with a dark jumper
- A black shirt with a light jumper
Going for a print or pattern?
If you’re not dealing with a strict dress code, a printed shirt is a great way to make your outfit stand out. Especially if you’re wearing a plain pullover where only the collar and cuffs of your shirt are visible. Feel free to experiment with different shapes and colours to create the most stylish combinations. Wearing a patterned shirt? Then opt for patterns that aren’t too busy or distracting. For business occasions in particular, it’s best to choose subtle stripes, polka dots and checks.
