Fashion trends have a remarkable way of coming full circle; classic looks frequently have a significant comeback in the current era. The grandad shirt, sometimes referred to as the band collar or mandarin collar shirt, is a quintessential illustration of how fashion is cyclical. This timeless and adaptable addition to any collection, with a vintage vibe, has once again grabbed the fashion world by storm. The shirt is an excellent option if you want to dress up your casual ensemble or give your formal wear a nostalgic touch. In this piece, we'll go into the background of the grandad shirt and offer styling advice for a stylish yet timeless style.
The Background of the Grandad Shirt
The origins of the grandad shirt can be traced back to the early 1900s. Originally a valuable and sturdy piece of workwear, it was worn by British labourers. Its unique characteristic is that it has a band collar that fastens with buttons in place of a regular collar. Workers found the shirt more comfortable without the tie, and they frequently wore it with the sleeves rolled up. It transitioned from workwear to informal wear over time, finally becoming a mainstay of menswear.
Icons such as Mick Jagger and Bob Dylan adopted the grandad shirt, which became known as a counterculture emblem in the 1960s. It was a declaration of defiance against the period's official dress code. This shirt is still a popular option for people who value its timeless appeal and vintage charm because of its history and adaptability.
Including the Grandad Shirt with Your Outfit
Now that you are aware of the history, here are some styling suggestions for wearing the grandad shirt:
Casual Chic: Wear your Grandad shirt with slim-fitting jeans or chinos for a casual yet fashionable look. The shirt can be tucked in for a more put-together look or left untucked for a more laid-back vibe. A leather belt and some timeless trainers complete this smart-casual look that's ideal for a laid-back dinner or weekend excursion.
Formal Elegance: The Grandad shirt can, surprisingly, be dressed up for more formal events. Select a superior Grandad shirt that fits nicely and has a mild design or a solid colour. Wear it with formal pants and a blazer for a chic look that's appropriate for a business-casual gathering or a night out. To finish the appearance, remember to add leather shoes and a chic watch as accessories.
Layering Magic: Adding layers to your garment is a terrific way to give it depth and style. Subtly adorn your grandad's shirt with a denim jacket, a V-neck sweater, or a cardigan. This gives your ensemble a distinctive visual aspect and adds a bit of warmth and texture while letting the band collar show through.
Mix & Match: The grandad shirt's versatility allows it to be effortlessly combined with a variety of items from your closet. To create a variety of looks, experiment with different textures, colours, and accessories. Whether you choose tweed, corduroy, or denim, the grandad shirt goes well with many different types of fabrics.
Choose Your Accessories Carefully: A look with a retro vibe would only be complete with the appropriate additions. To improve your overall appearance, think about including a narrow leather bracelet, a vintage-inspired watch, or a pocket square.
Play with Patterns: While traditional solid colours always stay in style, patterned grandad shirts may also be a fun way to inject some personality into your outfit. Subtle designs, stripes, and checks can stand out without sacrificing their old charm.
Essential Aspects of Tailoring: Fit is important for each article of clothing. Make sure the shoulders, chest, and sleeves of your grandad's clothing fit correctly. Have it tailored if needed to ensure the ideal fit. A shirt that fits nicely enhances your overall appearance.
To sum up, the grandad shirt is a timeless and adaptable piece of clothing that lets you seamlessly embrace retro vibes. It's an essential piece of clothing for any stylish person because of its long history and everlasting attractiveness. The grandad shirt provides a touch of nostalgia and elegance that's hard to top, whether you're trying for a formal, casual, or eclectic look. So why not wear the grandad shirt to up your style ante and embrace this trend with a nod to the past? It's a fashion decision that will undoubtedly last.