According to industry data, the demand for premium-quality shirt fabric types remains high as per the climate, occasion, and personal taste. As men’s fashion becomes increasingly mixed with comfort, sustainability, and individual expression, the diversity in the best fabrics for formal shirts and suit fabrics often leaves men confused about which one they should buy. We are here to crack the puzzle for you.
Among the most favored types of shirt material for men is Oxford cloth, named after the prestigious Oxford University, where it became very popular in the 19th century. It is known for its basketweave fabric that is famous for its durability and softness. Ideal for formal wear, Oxford cloth shirts can be worn all day as workwear. And in the same shirt, you can slip into a semi-formal night date by simply changing your blazer.
2. Poplin
MOUNTBATTEN GRAY WITH MULTICOLOR FLOWER PRINTED POPLIN GIZA COTTON SHIRT
BRIGHT WHITE FLOWER PRINTED LIGHTWEIGHT POPLIN GIZA COTTON SHIRT
The poplin fabric's name came from the French word "pipeline", or in Latin from 'Papal” as this was a favorite wear among the popes. A plain weave type of shirt material that has a very smooth texture and is lightweight, making it very breathable but has a very crisp finish, just perfect for semi-formal shirts as well as business suits. Poplin garments are usually ideal for office wear, formal events, and even outdoor gatherings of men due to their long-time comfort yet very polished looks.
3. Herringbone
BRIGHT WHITE AND DOWNRIVER BLUE PRINTED HERRINGBONE SHIRT
Herringbone shirt fabric types take their name from their distinctive V-shaped weaving pattern that resembles the skeleton of a herring fish. It has a very classic yet stylish look among all the different types of shirt material. No wonder you can make herringbone garments of a vast range, from suits and jackets to sometimes formal shirts also. Due to its elegant texture and versatility, it can be worn as formal as well as semi-formal wear - both ways.
BRIGHT WHITE DETAILED LUXURIOUS ITALIAN LINEN SHIRT
JADE BLACK WITH FRENCH CROWN ELEMENTS AND GEOMETRIC EMBROIDERED LUXURIOUS LINEN DESIGNER SHIRT
Linen fiber comes from the flax plant, and due to its simple, loose weave, it has a very fine texture and extreme breathability. Its name comes from the Latin word "linum," meaning flax. Linen garments are so comfortable that, from formal shirts to casual shirts to even linen suits, men wish to wear them anytime and any day, especially when they live or work in warm climates. It makes the fabric suitable for outdoor weddings, beach parties, casual office settings, and whatnot. It adds effortless elegance to any occasion.
5. Flannel
ALABASTER WHITE WITH DENIM BLUE PLAID BRUSHED FLANNEL SHIRT
AUBERGINE WINE WITH WHITE PLAID FLANNEL OVERSHIRT/SHACKET
Among the popular men's shirt fabric types, the flannel fabric's name comes from the Welsh word "gwlanen," meaning woolen cloth. It is quite soft and warm, so it can be created into flannel shirts, suits, blazers, jackets, and whatnot for men, especially for wearing during the colder months. This is the best fabric for formal shirts and suits, etc that are further perfect for formal or semi-casual outings like weddings, cocktails, etc, or formal outdoor activities like business meetings, providing both style and insulation against the chill.
6. Corduroy
BULGARIAN WINE WITH MERINO CREAM IKAT PATTERN CORDUROY DESIGNER OVERSHIRT/SHACKET
DARK BEIGE AND ECLIPSE BROWN TEXTURED WITH PATCHWORK CORDUROY DESIGNER SHIRT
This men's shirt cloth material type takes its name from the French "corde du roi" meaning "cloth of the king!" Among the most sought-after cotton shirt fabric types, it also is used to make formal pants, formal suits, and more for men because its fabric has a unique weave that has parallel cords or ridges formed by extra filling yarns. This weave makes it very durable, a little warm, and uniquely textured, making it ideal for trousers, jackets, and suits. Also, it has that touch of vintage-inspired sophistication that is ideal for casual Fridays at the office, weekend outings, and semi-formal gatherings that men look for.
7. Twill Cotton Fabric Shirt
ACAPULCO GREEN AND BRIGHT WHITE TWILL PREMIUM COTTON SHIRT
AQUA ISLAND WITH BLEACHED CEDAR PLAID TWILL OVERSHIRT/SHACKET
Twill cotton fabric is known for its diagonal weave pattern that adds a unique depth and texture to the fabric, making it visually appealing. Due to this look, these shirt cloth material types are quite flexible and can be worn at both formal and casual occasions. Twill cotton shirts are perfect for everyday wear, interview talks, date nights, wedding cocktails and more. Men prefer these due to its comfortable feel and polished appearance.
8. Dobby
APRICOT ORANGE WITH BRIGHT WHITE HALF AND HALF DOBBY TEXTURED PREMIUM GIZA COTTON DESIGNER SHIRT
AZUL BLUE AND BITTERSWEET ORANGE DOBBY TEXTURED PREMIUM GIZA COTTON DESIGNER SHIRT
Dobby shirt cloth material types are named after the Dobby loom used to create their intricate patterns in the 19th century. Commonly used for men's shirts, dobby types of shirt material offer a visual appeal and unique texture. On one hand, dobby shirt fabric types are perfect for office wear and semi and formal evening events; on the other hand, you can also wear this to casual family and social gatherings, showcasing understated elegance and style.
9. Tencel Fabric
JADE BLACK WITH TROPICAL BLUE MULTICOLOUR STRIPED PREMIUM TENCEL SHIRT
Tencel fabric is always made from sustainably sourced wood pulp. Its name is derived from "tendency to excel," reflecting its superior qualities like a very silky smooth texture and eco-friendly production process. Tencel shirts, suits, and trousers are highly breathable. Plus, they evade moisture, so you can wear them anywhere, from casual outings to formal gatherings to picnics, also.
10. Denim
BAYOX BLUE TWO TONE BUTTON-DOWN DENIM SHIRT
Denim is a very thick cotton twilled fabric. It is named after "Serge de" Nîmes"—the French town where it was created. We are all aware of its high-end durability and versatility. Thus, denim creates a very vast range of garments, including jeans, jackets, shirts, shorts, and more for men. A rugged yet stylish look, suitable for casual wear, outdoor activities, and relaxed workplace environments, denim is your go-to men's attire any day, unless it is too hot outside.
How to Select The Right Fabric for Your Men's Shirt or Formal Wear
Do not follow the trend blindly, is our foremost advice. Assess your style to ensure the fabric aligns with your aesthetic preferences, whether classic and polished or casual and relaxed. Prioritize comfort and fit, ensuring the shirt feels comfortable and allows for ease of movement.
Then, evaluate the occasion's formality, opting for crisp fabrics like poplin for formal events and relaxed fabrics like linen for casual outings.
Next, factor in the weather, choosing breathable fabrics for warm climates and heavier fabrics for colder seasons.
Consider maintenance requirements, opting for fabrics that suit your preferences for care and upkeep.
Summing up,
Though, we have shared quite a lot about the best fabric for formal shirts, pants, and suits for men across the globe. But what you must pick is what your personal style is, because that’s where your confidence in men’s attire will come from!
ilesh Ghevariya
Meet Ilesh Ghevariya, the brain behind French Crown. He's not just a CEO and founder of French Crown; he's a fashion trailblazer. With a keen eye for style and a passion for innovation, he's transforming how people shop for fashion. His blog offers deep insights into the ever-changing fashion industry.
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