Initial shirt line-up for a new hire

Question

A friend of the family is excited about the new job he's starting with your firm this summer, and wants to make sure he shows up looking like a member of the team. He asks you,"What are the first six shirts I should buy, so that I can make it through the week?"

What mix of color/patterns? (solids, checks, stripes) What collars? (spread, button down, cutaway) Any specific brands to shop/avoid?

What mix of color/patterns? (solids, checks, stripes)
What collars? (spread, button down, cutaway)
Any specific brands to shop/avoid?

Ruhm · Accepted Answer

My recommendation (a.k.a. safe bet):

10 shirts instead of 5-6 in case you cannot make it to the cleaners/ have to skip laundry
White and variations of light blue, discrete stripes and checks work fine
Moderate spread collars and point collars are the easiest to wear, with or without tie
The Charles Tyrwhitt non-iron extra slim is a solid bet, especially the 5-shirt deal; other brands that pop up include Brooks Brothers, TM Lewin, JoS A Bank
Additional advice: get shirts tailored to fit if they need it - fit is what matters most

Ruhm · Answer

"WardrobeEssentialist"
CT extra slim may be perfect for a marathon runner, but way too tight through the chest for a rower.

You're right, but I think they would also fit "regular Joes" who work out moderately. They will certainly not fit wider upper-body types.

"WardrobeEssentialist"
In terms of collars, do you actually see a lot of point collars on young guys?

Going Concern · Answer

"Deo et Patriae"
For work shirts, I'm partial to T&A shirts. A bit on the pricey end, but they have sales frequently enough (Note: this is for their off-the-rack stuff)

I too enjoy paying $400 for a plain white shirt

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Initial shirt line-up for a new hire

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Initial shirt line-up for a new hire

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