Patterned Dress Shirts

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pair a patterned dress shirt with a tie without clashing?

Vary the scale: pair a small shirt pattern with a larger tie pattern, or the reverse, and keep the colors related. If in doubt, wear a solid tie with a patterned shirt.

What dress shirt patterns are appropriate for a conservative office?

Fine stripes, small checks and subtle micro-patterns. They read as near-solid from a distance. Save bold plaids and florals for casual and event wear.

What is the difference between a check and a plaid?

A check is a regular grid of equal squares, like gingham. A plaid layers stripes of different widths and colors that cross at right angles. Checks look dressier; plaids are more casual.