A wardrobe staple for both men and women, the humble shirt has seen plenty of iterations through the years. It’s enduring appeal is perhaps because it’s so easy to wear, and so versatile, suitable for smart, casual, business and formal occasions. 

If in doubt, I always reach for a shirt and find that no matter how many I own, I always find myself looking to add to my collection. I take after my mum who has countless shirts in her wardrobe (mostly white), but each one is very slightly different. It may have a boxy fit or slightly oversized colour, wooden buttons or be a slightly softer shade of white, or be a new season update that her collection doesn’t yet hold. 

For men, the shirt’s usefulness is endless, and it’s becoming more versatile than ever. Try linen in the summer for a lighter option, or if you’re feeling bold, a statement print as seen at Bode. Overshirts have become more popular in recent years, and thicker fabrics layer well over t-shirts.

Here are the 10 best shirts to buy now…

For women 

A classic cut 

A classic shirt is something you’ll always come back to, and Matteau’s timeless stripe in blue or green is borrowing from the men at it’s best.