Forget the stuffy button-downs and the predictable polos. There’s a new sheriff in town when it comes to casual men’s wear, and its name is the camp collar shirt. Also known as an open collar shirt or a Cuban collar shirt, this relaxed and versatile piece is taking the fashion world by storm.
So, what exactly is a camp collar shirt? Imagine a classic button-down shirt, but with a distinctively open collar that lies flat against the chest. This allows for a more laid back and breezy feel, perfect for warmer weather or when you want to add a touch of effortless style to your outfit. The beauty of the camp collar shirt lies in its versatility. You can dress it up for a night out or keep it casual for a weekend adventure. And hey, for those who love a subtle nod to Western fashion, some camp collar shirts even come with stylish pearl snaps, adding a touch of cowboy charm.
Ready to unlock the potential of the camp collar shirt in your wardrobe? Let’s explore 10 ways to style it for any occasion, from laid-back weekends to surprisingly chic looks.
1. Weekend Casual: Effortless Cool
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of kicking back on a weekend with friends. For an effortlessly cool vibe, pair a light-colored shirt with rolled-up chinos and a pair of fresh white sneakers. Opt for a neutral color like beige or light blue for the shirt, and choose chinos in a complementary shade like khaki or olive green. This simple yet stylish combination is perfect for grabbing brunch, running errands, or hanging out at a park.
2. Elevated Beach Vibes: Sun, Sand, and Style
Heading to the beach? Ditch the boring t-shirt and elevate your beach style with a short-sleeved camp collar shirt. Choose a vibrant color like coral or light blue to complement the summer sun. Pair it with linen shorts in a neutral tone like white or beige, and complete the look with boat shoes or sandals. For a touch of Western flair that complements the beachy vibe, consider a camp collared shirt with subtle pearl snaps in a contrasting color.
3. Summer Chic: Breezy and Sophisticated
The camp collar shirt isn’t just for casual settings. With the right approach, you can create a surprisingly chic summer look. Elevate your outfit with a linen shirt with camp collars in a neutral tone like cream or light grey. Pair it with dark wash dress pants for a touch of formality, and finish the look with a pair of loafers. This combination is perfect for a summer date night, a work event with a relaxed dress code, or simply adding a touch of sophistication to your everyday style.
4. Modern Workwear: Relaxed Yet Professional
For those lucky enough to have a work environment that allows for a more relaxed dress code, the camp collar shirt offers a stylish alternative to the traditional button-down. Opt for a long-sleeved camp collar shirt in a solid color like navy blue or light grey. Tuck it into a pair of chinos or dark wash jeans for a polished look. If you need an extra layer of formality, throw on a blazer for a put-together yet comfortable workday ensemble. Bonus points for a camp collar shirt with subtle pearl snaps, adding a hint of Western-inspired flair that can be a great conversation starter with colleagues.
5. The Unexpected Suit: Breaking the Mold
Feeling bold and adventurous? Shirts with camp collars work well with suits for a trendy and unexpected look. Choose a light-colored summer suit in a fabric like linen or cotton seersucker. Pair it with a camp collar shirt in a complementary color or a subtle pattern. This combination is perfect for a summer wedding, a day at the races, or simply when you want to make a statement with your unique style. Just remember to keep the rest of your accessories minimal to avoid overwhelming the outfit.
6. Mix and Match Textures: Adding Depth and Dimension
The camp collar shirt offers a great opportunity to play with textures in your outfit. For a visually interesting look, try layering it over a plain t-shirt or a Henley. This combination adds depth and dimension to your outfit, while still maintaining a relaxed vibe. Alternatively, try pairing your camp collar shirt with a textured knit sweater or a bomber jacket for a cool and casual fall look. Trying different textures will help you discover what works for you.
7. Accessorize Wisely: Elevating Your Look
The right accessories can take your camp collar shirt look from good to great. For a laid-back vibe, consider a statement necklace or a pair of sunglasses. Channel your inner cowboy with a bolo tie, a subtle nod to Western heritage that complements the camp collar’s relaxed aesthetic. Make your look stand out with a classic watch or a statement ring. Don’t forget the hat! A straw fedora or a classic baseball cap can add another layer of personality to your outfit.
8. Embrace Prints: Express Yourself
In addition to classic stripes and floral prints, camp collar shirts are available in a wide range of colors and styles. It allows you to express your individual style and personality in a variety of ways. For a timeless look, opt for a camp collar shirt with thin stripes in blue or grey. Feeling adventurous? Go for a floral print in a vibrant color. For a subtle touch of Western inspiration, consider a camp collar shirt with a paisley pattern, a classic motif found in many Western wear designs.
9. The Layering Masterpiece: Versatility Throughout the Seasons
The beauty of the camp collar shirt is its versatility throughout the year. When the weather cools down, you can layer your shirt over a plain t-shirt or a Henley for a casual yet put-together look. This layering technique adds warmth and allows you to continue enjoying your favorite camp collar shirts beyond the summer months. For a more winter-ready look, try layering your camp collar shirt under a sweater or a leather jacket. This combination adds warmth and style, making the camp collar shirt a year-round wardrobe staple.
10. Winter Ready: Extending the Camp Collar Love
Don’t think you have to pack away your camp collar shirts when the temperature drops. By incorporating clever layering, you can extend the life of your favorite camp collar pieces well into winter. Try layering your camp collar shirt under a chunky knit sweater or a bomber jacket for added warmth and a stylish layered look. This combination is perfect for a casual winter outing or adding a touch of personality to your everyday cold-weather wardrobe.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Inner Style Icon
The camp collar shirt offers endless possibilities for creating stylish and comfortable looks. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back weekend vibe, a surprisingly chic summer outfit, or a trendy take on workwear, the camp collar shirt has you covered. So, embrace the versatility of the camp collar shirts with pearl snaps instead of traditional button-downs. Experiment with different styles, textures, and accessories to discover what works best for you. Remember, It’s all about expressing yourself, and this camp collar shirt is the perfect canvas for you to reveal your inner style icon.
Call to Action:
Head over to your favorite clothing stores or browse online retailers such as Richter Goods, to discover a world of camp collar shirts. From classic solids to bold prints, there’s a perfect shirt out there waiting for you. Share your favorite outfit or styling tip in the comments below! We’d love to hear from you and see how you’re rocking the trend.
Invitation to Engage:
What are your favorite ways to wear a camp collar shirt? Do you have any unique styling tips to share? Let’s create a community discussion about all things camp collar fashion!
