Luxury Meets Functionality: How to Choose the Perfect Shirt or Blouse for Every Occasion

If you need a loyal companion to take you from boardroom to ballroom, you’d be hard pressed to find a better candidate than a good shirt. Anyone who is lucky enough to have a couple of well-tailored shirts in high quality fabrics will know first hand just how versatile they can be. For me, the proof is in just how many times I throw my favourite blouses into an overnight bag, just knowing they will serve me well, no matter what the weekend throws my way. 

If you’re not yet converted to the practical yet sophisticated allure of the shirt, let’s delve into how to select the ideal shirt or blouse for every occasion. 

1. Know the Occasion

Image credit: The Shirt Company's Mrs Thatcher Women's Blouse in Claret

Context is everything and although literally any of the options listed below could shift category with ease and a little creativity, it’s always good to have some rules and guidelines so you can break them later on. 

• Formal Events: For a more formal event, take inspiration for menswear black tie looks and opt for sleek, tailored shirts or silk blouses in neutral tones such as crisp white, classic black, or a neutral taupe. Details such as French cuffs or a subtle ruffle can be the cherry on top of your elegant look. Take a peek at The Shirt Company’s Essentials Collection for inspiration. 

• Office Opulence: Choose a bright block colour to add some va-va-voom to your workwear wardrobe. A pop of colour beneath a chic black blazer and some tapered trousers is timeless and chic. Look out for breathable fabrics such as cotton or our snuggly and sustainable Tencel options to help you hold your own in the thermostat wars!

• Brunch with the Gals: It’s time to whip out the vibrant colours and patterns for a fun yet elevated look which will help you to look stylish and distract from a slight wobble when you’re 4 proseccos deep at bottomless brunch. Let’s go gals, the leopard print Thatcher shirt is calling your name! 

• Night on the Town: If there’s ever a time to be extra, it’s a night on the town, think enormous bell sleeves which would make Stevie Nicks blush, a tuxedo ruffle or a pussybow blouse. Just slam on a mini skirt, opaque tights and some calf high boots, or some leather trousers and you’ll shine as bright as the disco ball.

2. A Fitting Fit 

Image credit: The Shirt Company's Cassia women's blouse in black jersey 

Confidence comes with a blend of comfort and a killer fit, allowing you to move with ease and know you look fabulous while doing it. Below are a couple of things to consider for the perfect shirt or blouse. 

• Tailoring: Beautifully executed tailoring is essential for a shirt to showcase you at your very best. Don’t be afraid of making a few little alterations yourself with some carefully placed darts or to go to a tailor or seamstress to make some subtle alterations.

• Comfort: While fit is essential, prioritise pieces that allow ease of movement and temperature regulation. Let’s be real, nobody has ever looked their best sweating profusely in a cheap polyester mix (as a 70s vintage enthusiast, I know!) so look out for jersey fabrics, sumptuous soft organic cotton or linen to keep your cool. 

• Enhance Your Shape: Here at the Shirt Company, we aren’t about arbitrary body shape ‘rules’ and any body can slip into any of our shirts and rock it. We all have a favourite cut that makes us feel most confident in our skins though. If  you’re into a wrap blouse to enhance your curves or a straight-cut shirt for a streamlined silhouette, run with that, 

3. Choose Quality Fabrics

Image credit: The Shirt Company's Alice Women's Blouse in Sapphire Silk

The material your shirt is made off plays a pivotal role in ensuring a luxurious feel and functionality. Different fabrics offer varying benefits, see our condensed crib notes below:

• Cotton: A breathable, durable choice suitable for all-day wear. Cotton does crease, but it also irons like a dream and stays crisp and pressed on the hanger. 

• Silk: Known for its luxurious feel and natural sheen, ideal for formal or evening wear and surprisingly warm for winter too. 

• Linen: Lightweight and airy, perfect for casual settings and holiday flings. 

• Satin: Adds a touch of opulence for special occasions.

• Blends: Fabrics like jersey combine comfort with easy maintenance and are perfect for slinging in a suitcase. 

4. The Devil’s in the Details 

Image Credit: The Shirt Company's Augusta Ivory 100 percent silk blouse 

Small details can make a big difference in elevating your outfit:

• Buttons: High-quality buttons add sophistication. Pearl, covered-buttons or contrast colours are excellent choices for an upscale look.

• Collars and Sleeves: Unique collar shapes or statement sleeves can make your shirt or blouse stand out and elevate your look. 

• Accents: Embroidery, patterns, or pleats add personality and flair which will leave people asking where you shop.

5. Low Maintenance - High Mileage 

Luxury doesn't have to mean high maintenance. Opt for fabrics and styles that suit your lifestyle:

• Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics: Perfect for busy professionals or frequent travelers.

• Machine-Washable Options: For everyday wear, ensure your pieces are easy to clean without compromising quality.

• Durable Materials: Invest in high-quality fabrics that retain their shape and color over time.

6. Accessorize Thoughtfully

The right accessories can help your protect your personality onto the blank canvas of a simple shirt or women’s blouse:

• Statement Jewellery: Pair minimal designs with bold necklaces or earrings to make your look your own.

• Belts: Define your waist and add structure to flowy women’s blouses. If you’re feeling bold, you could also try out a harness for added edge.  

• Scarves: Add a pop of color or pattern for visual interest and flair. 

7. Eco-Conscious Craftsmanship 

Image credit: The Shirt Company's Madelena Shirt in White Organic Cotton

Choosing eco-friendly brands or fabrics not only supports sustainability and nearly always guarantees higher-quality craftsmanship. Look out for:

• Organic Fabrics: Such as organic cotton or linen. 

• Ethical Brands: Companies that prioritise fair trade and sustainable practices.