Out of the dowdy striped shirt coordinate! How to wear it for men
Why do striped shirts look tacky?

Striped shirts are an item that can be used for a wide range of purposes, from business to casual wear, but for some reason they are sometimes perceived as "tacky" or "drab.
The reasons for this lie in the selection of the type of stripes, the size, and the way they are combined. On the other hand, striped shirts are excellent items that can elevate your style if worn correctly.
First, understand the reasons why they look tacky, and then take the first step toward a stylish look.

striped casual shirt N5092
Different types of stripes and their impressions
Striped shirts come in a wide variety of designs.
From thin pinstripes to thick regimental stripes, did you know that the impression they give can vary greatly depending on their type? It is especially easy to make the mistake of choosing a stripe that does not suit your body shape or facial features.
For example, vertical stripes emphasize vertical lines, which can make a slimmer person look even thinner, or conversely, a thicker person look thicker.
Particular attention should be paid to complex multi-stripes and overly assertive designs. These may look stylish at first glance, but they are difficult to combine with other items and can result in an imbalance in the overall look.
Specifically, colorfulCOLORstriped shirts with even more flamboyant bottoms can make the overall look unsettled.
It is important to choose the type of stripes that best suits your TPO and your personal style.
Importance of size
One of the biggest reasons striped shirts look tacky is improper sizing.
Especially in men's fashion, the size of a shirt is an important factor in determining the overall impression. Shirts that are too large give the impression of being "bulky" and unkempt, while shirts that are too small not only look tight, but also distort the lines of the stripes, giving an unnatural impression.
What is an appropriately sized shirt?Shoulder widthfits snugly, the sleeve length reaches the wrist, and there is room in the body width, yet the silhouette looks beautiful. In the case of striped shirts in particular, the stripes should flow naturally along the lines of the body, giving a sophisticated impression.
For example,Shoulder widthfits perfectly, the stripes will fall naturally from the shoulders, creating a beautiful silhouette. On the contraryShoulder widthIf the stripes do not match, the stripes will bend unnaturally, creating an unbalanced overall look.
Examples of Coordination Failures
The most common coordination failure with striped shirts is the "pattern-on-pattern" combination.
Since the striped shirt itself is already patterned, combining it with bottoms and outerwear with even stronger patterns will make the shirt visually busy and uncoordinated. For example, if you combine a striped shirt with plaid pants, each pattern tends to fight with each other, resulting in an unrefined coordination.
Another example of failure is,COLORis to coordinate without considering the balance of the two patterns. In particular, combining a basic blue and white striped shirt without thinking about it will give the impression of "just putting it on for the time being. For example, simply wearing a blue and white striped shirt with a navy blueCOLORblue and white striped shirt with navy blue slacks,COLORAlthough there is a sense of unity in the blue and white striped shirt, it gives an overall impression of mediocrity and lack of individuality.
Coordinating with an accent color or changing the texture of the material will greatly enhance the stylishness of the outfit.
Avoid tackiness! Points for choosing a striped shirt

You can make a big difference in your impression from "tacky" to "fashionable" by keeping the following points in mind when choosing a striped shirt.
Stripe width and spacing,COLORThe width and spacing of the stripes, their use, and the material they are made of are all factors to keep in mind when choosing a shirt. Here we will show you how to choose a striped shirt that suits your body shape and taste.
Selecting the right shirt is the first step to a stylish coordination.
The width and spacing of stripes change the impression.
The width and spacing of stripes greatly affect the impression of a striped shirt.
Thin stripes (pinstripes) give a formal, business-like impression. Dark blue and black pinstripes, in particular, are ideal for creating a classic, relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, thicker stripes give a more casual, laid-back look that can easily be incorporated into a holiday outfit.
The width of stripes to choose will depend on your body type. For example, if you have a slightly thicker body type, choosing medium to thin stripes will emphasize vertical lines and give you a slimmer appearance. Specifically, thin stripes of 1 to 2 mm width are recommended to give a smart impression.
On the other hand, if you are slender, choosing thicker stripes will give you a voluminous look; stripes 5mm or thicker will give you a coordinated look with a strong presence.
COLORImprove your sense of style with your choice! Be aware of the season!
The striped shirtCOLORThe choice of a striped shirt is an important point that influences the overall impression of the coordinated look.
While the standard blue and white or black and white stripes are highly versatile and can be easily matched to any coordinate, they tend to give the impression of lacking individuality. If you want to improve your sense of style, you should choose a seasonally consciousCOLORIf you want to improve your sense of style, try making your selections with a sense of the season in mind.
For example, for spring and summer, we recommend a fresh light blue and white or green and white striped shirt. TheseCOLORare bright and light, perfect for the hot season. Specifically, a light blue striped shirt and white chinos will complete a cool and refreshing summer look.
For fall and winter, deep colors such as burgundy and white or navy and grayCOLORmatching striped shirts are recommended. TheseCOLORgive a subdued impression and go well with a heavy autumn/winter look.
The range of dressing changes with the material.
The choice of material for a striped shirt is also an important factor in broadening the range of outfits.
The material can greatly affect the level of formality, seasonality, and comfort of the shirt, so it is necessary to choose the right material for the right TPO. A typical 100% cotton shirt is versatile and can be used in all seasons, but it is not enough to show off your sense of style.
For example, a striped shirt made of a breathable linen (hemp) blend is recommended for spring and summer. The natural texture of linen and the regularity of stripes blend perfectly to create a relaxed, mature look. Specifically, a linen-blend blue striped shirt paired with beige chinos completes a classy resort style. In the fall and winter, a slightly thicker material such as oxford or twill can be selected for a warmer look.
A striped shirt made of oxford material will go well with denim for a casual yet classy look.
Techniques for wearing striped shirts stylishly

Once you have a striped shirt, the next step is to actually wear it.
The same shirt can give a very different impression depending on the items you match it with and how you wear it. Here, we will introduce specific examples of coordinating short-sleeved and long-sleeved striped shirts for both casual and beautiful occasions.
Try different variations to suit your own style and taste. The wider the range of your outfits, the more useful a single shirt will be many times over.
How to wear a short-sleeved striped shirt: Casual

Short-sleeved striped shirts are indispensable for casual summer style, and are an excellent item for both a cool impression and a moderately neat look.
The key to wearing it casually is to find the right balance between a relaxed look and not looking sloppy. Learn the technique of making the most of the regular pattern of stripes while casualizing it down with other items.
A simple T-shirt and jeans for a fresh look
The easiest and most stylish way to wear a short-sleeved striped shirt is with a simple white T-shirt and jeans.
This classic style may look simple at first glance, but it is actually a deeply coordinated look. The key is to use the striped shirt as a weave, which gives a casual yet sophisticated impression.
Specifically, the key is to open two or three buttons at the neck to create a relaxed look. Also, leave the hems out if you dare, for a cozy look. As for jeans, dark indigo or light blue straight denim will balance out the look.
This coordination is perfect for situations where you want to relax but still look stylish, such as holiday shopping or relaxing at a café.
Summer resort style with shorts
Short-sleeved striped shirts and shorts are a great combination for the hot summer season.
This style can easily create a refreshing, resort-like look. Especially bright blue and waterCOLORstriped shirts, especially in bright blue or water colors, are perfect for a summer resort style.
For shorts, choose plain chino shorts or linen shorts that go well with the striped shirt.COLORBasic colors such as beige, white, and navy are recommended. For footwear, sandals or espadrilles can be worn to create an open, tropical resort-like atmosphere.
Specifically, waterCOLORand white striped shirt, beige chino shorts, and white espadrilles will complete a refreshing summer resort style.
Layered style with a vest or cardigan
If you want to take your casual coordinate with a short-sleeved striped shirt one step further, a layered style is recommended.
Layering with a vest or cardigan is especially effective during the changing seasons of spring and fall. The contrast between the regular pattern of the stripes and the plain outerwear gives a stylish impression.
For example, a blue and white short-sleeved striped shirt layered with a navy knit vest gives an intelligent yet casual impression. For bottoms, gray or charcoal slacks or chinos will give a mature look.
On chilly days, simply draping a beige or gray cardigan over your shoulders will create a stylish, seasonal look.
How to wear a short-sleeved striped shirt: Beautiful version

The short-sleeved striped shirt is a versatile item that can be used not only for casual wear but also for a beautiful style.
By matching it with appropriate bottoms and outerwear, you can create a perfectly balanced coordination that is neither too casual nor too formal.
Here are some beautiful coordinates that can be used in a variety of situations, from business casual to date style.
Match with slacks for a mature look
The most basic way to wear a short-sleeved striped shirt beautifully is with slacks.
This style is neither too casual nor too formal, and gives a mature look. In particular, fine striped shirts are ideal for a clean and sharp look, making them ideal for a clean style.
Specifically, we recommend wearing a blue pinstripe short-sleeved shirt with dark navy or gray slacks. The shirt should be worn in to give it a neat appearance. For a belt, a simple black or brownCOLORA thin black or brown belt will balance the overall look.
For the feet, leather shoes or loafers will give a sense of adult dignity to the outfit. This style is ideal for casual Fridays or a short outing on a holiday.
Wear a jacket for a business casual look.
If you want to elevate your short-sleeved striped shirt, we recommend wearing it with a tailored jacket.
The seemingly mismatched combination of a short-sleeved shirt and a jacket actually gives a sophisticated impression. It is especially useful for cool biz style in summer and dress casual occasions such as resort weddings.
The point is that the jacket and shirtCOLORThe key is the balance between the jacket and the shirt. For example, a navy or light gray jacket goes well with a blue and white striped shirt. Bottoms should be similar to the jacket.COLORor a contrasting pair of slacks.COLORor contrasting chinos.
Specifically, a narrow blue striped shirt, a light gray jacket, and navy slacks will complete your summer business casual look.
This look is ideal for business meetings and office casual workplaces during hot weather.
Combine with chinos for a classy casual style.
Short-sleeved striped shirts and chinos are a typical example of beautiful casual wear.
Chinos are a perfectly balanced item, not too stiff like slacks or too casual like denim. This combination works well for situations where you want to dress up a bit, such as a holiday date or a casual dinner party.
COLORAs for the combination of the two, a fresh light blue striped shirt and beige or olive chinos are a perfect match. The key to the shirt is to open only the top button, leaving it a little neat but not too tight.
For footwear, choose loafers or deck shoes rather than sneakers for a casual yet classy look. Specifically, waterCOLORand white striped shirt, beige chinos, brownCOLORloafers, and you have a mature holiday style.
How to wear a long-sleeved striped shirt

The long-sleeved striped shirt is a versatile item that can be worn throughout the year.
It can be used in a variety of situations, from business occasions to casual holidays. It is especially useful as a base for layering during the changing seasons and in winter.
Here we will show you how to wear long-sleeved striped shirts for both business and casual occasions. Get the most out of your long-sleeved striped shirt by dressing it appropriately.
How to wear it in business situations
The long-sleeved striped shirt is a staple item for business occasions.
Fine stripes (pinstripes), in particular, give a formal impression and are ideal for business occasions. However, simply matching it with a suit tends to be mundane. Here, we will introduce some techniques for wearing striped shirts to elevate them in business situations.
First, the combination of shirt and tie is important. A plain or simple small-patterned tie goes well with a striped shirt. For example, a blue and white striped shirt goes well with a navy blueCOLORor red plain tie is a classic match. It is important to note that striped shirts and striped ties tend to compete with each other and give a cluttered impression, so it is best to avoid this.
For suits, plain navy or dark gray is the most versatile and goes well with any striped shirt. In particular, a plain dark suit with a fine striped shirt gives a classic yet sophisticated impression.
Specifically, a fine blue striped shirt, a navy suit, and a plain burgundy tie will complete a trustworthy business look.
How to dress for casual occasions
Long-sleeved striped shirts also work well for casual occasions.
The point is to create a relaxed atmosphere by breaking the neatness of the business-oriented look. When wearing it casually, the trick is to give it a cozy look by the way the shirt is worn or rolled up.
For example, a blue striped shirt on a white background goes well with denim. Specifically, wear the shirt with the hem of the shirt exposed or roll up the sleeves to create a relaxed look. Denim is,COLORlight blue or, conversely, dark indigo, to match the stripe impression of the shirt. For footwear, choose casual yet mature shoes such as white sneakers or desert boots for a well-balanced look.
Furthermore, during the cold season, a knit over the striped shirt is also recommended; a V-neck knit will show off the collar of the shirt nicely and give an intelligent impression. If you choose a knit in a basic color such as gray or navy, it will go well with any striped shirt.
This style is ideal for casual workplaces, reading a book at a café, or any other situation where you want to look relaxed yet neat.
Recommended striped shirt brands

When choosing the right striped shirt for you, it is important to select a brand as well as your preference and style of coordination.
Various brands offer striped shirts, but they differ in price range, design, and quality. Here are some recommended striped shirt brands for a variety of occasions, from casual to business. Find a brand that fits your budget and style, and use it as a reference for selecting a striped shirt.
Recommended brands for choosing striped shirts can be broadly divided according to their characteristics. First, if you are looking for a high-quality striped shirt for business occasions, we recommend well-established brands such as Brooks Brothers and Thomas Mason.
These brands have a long history and high technology, and are characterized by comfortable fabrics and careful sewing. In particular, Brooks Brothers' oxford fabric button-down shirts are representative of the American traditional, and are widely used from business to casual wear.
If you are looking for casual striped shirts, fast fashion brands such as UNIQLO and GAP are not to be underestimated. They are affordable, yet offer trendy designs and functionality. UNIQLO's easy-care shirts, in particular, are easy to iron after washing and are recommended for busy modern people. The original lines of select stores such as Journal Standard and United Arrows are also popular for their moderate trendiness and good quality.
Striped shirts from Japanese domestic brands that specialize in shirts, such as Cambria and Camichanista, are also noteworthy. These brands are characterized by a size that matches the Japanese body shape and attention to detail, and they are all excellent products that can be worn for a long time just by owning one.
Prices are a little high, but their quality and comfort are assured. For example, with Cambraia's custom-made shirts, you can get a striped shirt that is perfectly sized for your body shape.
In summary: Be confident and fashionable with a striped shirt that suits you!

In this issue, we have explained in detail how to choose a striped shirt and how to wear it without looking "tacky.
Striped shirts are excellent items that will elevate your fashion sense if you choose them correctly and wear them appropriately.
Finally, let's review the key points of this article in summary.
First, we have established that the causes of striped shirts looking tacky include wrong selection of the type of stripes, inappropriate sizing, and failure to coordinate. To avoid these, it is important to choose the width and spacing of stripes that suit one's body shape and facial features, to be aware of appropriate sizing, and to coordinate with an overall balance.
The key to choosing a striped shirt is the width and spacing of the stripes,COLORchoice, and material. Thin stripes tend to look more formal, while thicker stripes look more casual. Also, be aware of the season.COLORand choosing the right material for the right TPO are also important. For example, fresh blue stripes and breathable linen-blend materials for spring and summer, and deep blue stripes and linen-blend materials for fall and winter.COLORFor autumn and winter, deep blue stripes and slightly thicker materials are recommended.
In terms of dressing techniques, we have shown how to make use of short-sleeved and long-sleeved striped shirts for both casual and beautiful occasions. Specifically, we introduced the following casual outfits for short-sleeved striped shirts: a combination with a T-shirt and jeans, a resort style with shorts, and a layered style with a vest or cardigan. In addition, as beautiful ways to wear short-sleeved striped shirts, we introduced coordination with slacks, a business casual style with a jacket, and an elegant casual style with chinos.
For long-sleeved striped shirts, we explained how to combine them with a suit and tie for business occasions, and showed how to wear them with denim and layered styles with knitwear for casual occasions.
In all styles, it is important to consider overall balance while taking advantage of the characteristics of the striped shirt.
We also introduced a variety of options as recommended striped shirt brands, ranging from high-quality brands for business, fast fashion brands for casual wear, and shirt specialty brands in Japan. It is important to choose the brand that best suits your budget and style.
A striped shirt is a versatile item that can be used in a variety of coordinates just by having one. Keep the points introduced in this article in mind, find a striped shirt that suits you, and enjoy wearing fashion with confidence.
Once you know how to choose and wear a striped shirt correctly, you will no longer have to worry about being called "tacky.
Establish your own unique striped shirt style and broaden your fashion horizons.
Comparison chart: Characteristics of striped shirts by type and recommended outfits
Stripe Type | feature | Recommended Scenes | Compatible items | Combinations to avoid |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pinstripes (1-2 mm wide) |
Formal and intellectual impression Suitable for business Effective for slimming down |
Business Formal parties Job Hunting |
Suits Plain tie slacks |
striped tie Flashy patterns Extremely casual items |
Medium stripes (3-5mm width) |
Well-balanced versatility Can be used both on and offline |
Business Casual Date Holiday |
Chinos Denim Tailored Jackets |
Striped items of the same width Extreme casual items |
Wide stripes (6mm or larger) |
Casual and bold impression Has a sense of presence Trendy and trendy |
Holiday Outdoor Resorts |
shorts Denim Plain Items |
Formal Suit TonalCOLORPatterned items of Flashy accessories |
Multi-stripes (MultipleCOLORand widths) |
Unique and playful impression Trendy and trendy Difficult to coordinate |
Casual gatherings Festivals Art-related events |
Plain Bottoms Simple Outerwear Basic colored items |
Other patterned items Flashy accessories Business Occasions |
Recommended striped shirt selection by body type
Body Type | Recommended stripes | RecommendedCOLORMatching | Designs to avoid |
---|---|---|---|
Slim |
Bold stripes Horizontal stripes Multi-colored stripes |
BrightCOLORMatching Contrasting DistributionCOLOR pastel colors |
Extremely thin stripes Vertical emphasis only Too darkCOLORfit |
Too chunky | Fine to medium thick stripesDesign with little difference in stripe shading in the vertical direction |
Dark tones Monotone tonalitiesCOLORcolor schemeCOLOR |
Extremely thick stripes Horizontal stripes Too flashyCOLORtoo good |
Standard body type |
All types basically fit Choose according to TPO Can focus on your preferences |
Your own skinCOLORSuitable forCOLORfit Seasonal distributionCOLOR TPO-appropriateCOLORSelection |
Extreme design Designs that are too conscious of body coverage Designs that follow trends too closely |
For those who are concerned about their stomach area |
Slightly narrow stripes Strong vertical design Moderately roomy silhouette |
DarkerCOLORMatching Low contrast distributionCOLOR Calm tones |
Extremely form-fitting design Horizontal stripes Transparent material |
Using the above chart as a guide, choose a striped shirt that suits your body type and taste, and enjoy wearing it in style.
A single striped shirt will dramatically improve your fashion sense. If you wear it with confidence, people around you will look at you differently. We hope you will try to apply the techniques we have introduced here.
Finally, there is no absolute right answer to fashion.
The points introduced in this article are just the basics. Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a style that you feel comfortable and confident in wearing.
Enjoy sophisticated coordination with striped shirts while respecting your own personality.