Dress code decoded: the perfect look with the right shirt

The term dress code initially sounds like rigid rules and fashion restrictions - but there is much more to it than that. A dress code is basically a social agreement on what clothing is considered appropriate in a certain context. This "dress code" can be very different: sometimes formal and clearly defined, such as at an evening gala with the indication Black Tiesometimes more subtle and unspoken, such as at a casual dinner with friends or a creative workplace.

Clothing is communication - and dress codes help us to send the right message. Whether consciously or unconsciously, how we dress has an influence on how we are perceived. In a business context, for example, it is often about expressing competence, seriousness and respect. In leisure time, on the other hand, clothing often signals belonging, individuality or simply a feeling of well-being.

Dress codes should therefore not restrict us, but provide orientation. They help us to avoid putting our foot in it and, ideally, to emphasize what we want to radiate with our outward appearance - be it professionalism, creativity or relaxation.

What is particularly exciting is that dress codes are not static. They change over time, adapt to social developments and allow more individuality today than ever before. What would have been unthinkable in the office in the past - such as a shirt without a tie or sneakers with a suit - is now completely accepted in many industries. At the same time, there are still situations in which an overly casual look can appear inappropriate. This is precisely why it pays to know the various dress codes - and how to interpret them stylishly.

A shirt plays a central role in this context: it is the item of clothing that most often mediates between the different style worlds - between business and leisure, between elegant and casual. That's why we'll take a closer look in the next step: Which shirts go with which dress code - and what should you look out for if you want to look stylish?

@MANILO

The most common dress codes at a glance

There are many dress codes - but don't worry: you don't have to memorize every detail. It's enough to know the most important dress codes and develop a sense of what is expected in which context. This will help you to move confidently between the office, leisure, festivities and everything in between.

Below, we give you an overview of the most common dress codes - from classic "business formal" to relaxed "casual". We'll also show you how to wear them correctly with the right shirt.

1. business formal - the classic office look

The dress code Business Formal is the most formal dress code in a professional environment. It is used in particular for important meetings, job interviews, official occasions or in conservative sectors such as finance, law firms or senior management.

Typical features:

• Dark suit (navy blue, anthracite, black)
• White or light blue shirt
• Tie (a must)
• Black or dark brown leather shoes
• Subtle accessories (watch, belt)

Restraint is required here - both in terms of colors and patterns. The shirt should be of high quality, pressed and perfectly fitting. Bright prints, eye-catching buttons or fashion experiments are out of place here. A classic Kent or shark collar is ideal, as it carries the tie nicely.

2. business casual - serious, but more relaxed

Business casual is the dress code that is standard in many modern offices today - especially in creative industries, start-ups and companies with flat hierarchies. It allows for more individuality and comfort, but remains smart and professional.

Typical features:

• Shirt without a tie (preferably with a pattern or color, but discreet)
• Cloth trousers or chinos instead of suit trousers
• Jacket optional, but not a must
• Fine leather shoes or plain leather sneakers

The shirt can be cut a little looser here, preferably with small patterns, checks or in muted colors. Oxford shirts with button-down collars also go perfectly with this look. Important: Even if it's called "casual" - baggy looks and wrinkled shirts are a no-go. You still want to look competent, just a little more casual.

3. smart casual - stylish with fashionable freedom

Smart casual is the golden mean between smart and casual - ideal for after-work events, dinner parties, theater visits or first dates. You look well-dressed without appearing too formal or stiff. This is where the playground for fashion-conscious men begins.

Typical features:

• Casual shirt (preferably patterned or colored)
• Chino or dark, clean jeans
• Jacket, cardigan or light overshirt jacket possible
• High-quality sneakers, loafers or Chelsea boots

You can score points here with a well-cut casual shirt - ideally made of soft fabric and with a stylish print. Shirts that over worn over trousers, which gives the look a modern, relaxed touch. However, make sure that the shirt is not too long or too wide - otherwise it will quickly look sloppy instead of casual.

4. casual - comfortable, but not arbitrary

The dress code Casual describes casual clothing - i.e. what you wear in everyday life when there are no formal expectations. Whether in a café, at the weekend with friends or on a stroll through town, you can let off steam in terms of fashion as long as you look smart.

Typical features:

• T-shirts, polo shirts or casual shirts
• Jeans, shorts or comfortable chinos
• Sneakers, sandals or boots - depending on the weather and style
• Accessories such as caps, watches or rucksacks possible

A shirt can also be a great choice here - especially if you want to look relaxed but still want to show style. Short, loose-fitting shirts with prints, embroidery or special details add character to your look. Brands like MANILOwhich focus specifically on fashionable, short-cut casual shirts, hit the nail on the head here: comfortable, individual and yet with style.

5. special dress codes - for when things get special

In addition to the classic dress codes, there are also a number of occasion-based dress codes - for example:

• Black Tie: Tuxedo, bow tie, white shirt - for galas, weddings or operas
• White Tie: Tailcoat and bow tie - extremely formal, almost only for diplomatic or royal events
• Summer Chic / Beach Formal: For garden parties or beach weddings - lighter colors, linen shirts, chic and summery
• Creative Casual / Dress to Impress: Loosely interpreted dress code with a fashionable touch - here you can (and should) stand out

Whether in the office, at customer appointments or at trade fairs: The business shirt is a central element of professional dress style - and far more than just a basic item under a jacket. It conveys seriousness, a sense of style and an eye for detail. A well-chosen shirt can make the difference between "just okay" and "impressively confident".

Why the business shirt is so important

In many industries - especially where customer contact, negotiating skills or leadership skills are required - first impressions are often decisive. And, as we all know, this is created within seconds. The shirt you wear sends a clear message: about your attitude, your standards and your sense of professionalism.

A high-quality business shirt shows that you take yourself and your role seriously. It automatically gives you an upright silhouette, makes you look well-groomed and supports your presence - without saying a word. It is your "visual business card", so to speak.

The features of a classic business shirt

For a shirt to really stand out as business shirt it should fulfill certain criteria:

1. Cut and fit

A business shirt should fit close to the body but not be constricting. Neither a baggy look nor muscle shirt vibes are called for here. So-called modern fit- or slim fit-cuts - depending on your figure. Important: The fit should also be right at the shoulders and sleeves. Sleeves that are too short or too long immediately look sloppy.

2. Collar shapes

The collar shape has a major influence on the effect of a shirt. They dominate in the business sector:

• Kent collar: classic, elegant, versatile
• Shark collar: slightly more modern, ideal for wide tie knots
• Button-down collar: rather sporty, but also acceptable in some business-casual settings

The choice also depends on whether and which tie is worn.

3. Colors and patterns

Classic does not mean boring. The typical business colors are white, light blue, blue-grey and soft pastel shades - they look serious, brighten the complexion and can be combined well. Fine stripes or a delicate check pattern are permitted, but should remain discreet. Eye-catching prints, bold colors or large patterns are rather taboo in a business environment.

4. Fabrics

Cotton remains the measure of all things - ideally in a high-quality twill, poplin or oxford weave. The fabric should be breathable, opaque and easy to iron. If you have long working days or a lot of movement at work, you will benefit from shirts with a small amount of stretch - they offer more comfort without losing their shape.

5. Workmanship and details

Finely stitched button plackets, even seams, neat cuffs - quality counts, especially when it comes to business shirts. If you are particularly style-conscious, pay attention to small details such as color-coordinated buttons, a discreetly embroidered initial or a contrasting-colored lining in the collar. Such subtleties show style without being too loud.

How to combine the business shirt

A business shirt is a real chameleon - it can be combined in many different ways:

·       Classic: with a suit and tie

·       Modern: with chinos and jacket, without tie

·       Casual-elegant: with cardigan and trousers

·       Discreetly eye-catching: With pocket square, watch or belt as a coordinating detail

Here, too, the combination makes the look - and the shirt is the stable foundation on which everything else is built.

The business shirt through the ages

Interestingly, the role of the business shirt is changing. In many companies, the strict suit requirement has disappeared. But that doesn't mean that the shirt has had its day - on the contrary: it is being reinterpreted. Anyone who opts for a well-cut, high-quality shirt in everyday business life today is not only demonstrating a sense of style, but also a feel for modern etiquette. Shirts today can be a little more individual - as long as they look neat and tasteful.

Whether it's a formal business meeting or a relaxed weekend - dress codes help us to strike the right note with our outfits. If you know their rules, you can use them confidently and stylishly without feeling trapped. The shirt plays a central role here: it is the most versatile item of clothing in a man's wardrobe - versatile, expressive and style-defining.

Have I inspired you? Discover here the current MANILO collection with a large selection of great casual and business shirts for all kinds of dress codes.

Kind regards,
Pascal from MANILO