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Cut, Fabric & Fit are Key to Men's Dress Shirts

Experts and regular guys agree: when buying a dress shirt, focus on cut, fabric quality, and fit.

First off, know your measurements and shop accordingly. Neck size and arm length are two main items to consider. Only one finger should be able to fit into the collar when it's buttoned. Also ensure that the shirt closely fits the torso. The shoulder seams should reach just past the wrists.

Obviously, the better the quality of the fabric, the longer the shirt will last. The density and type of fabric (i.e., cotton versus a poly-cotton blend) make a difference. The strength of the fabric is also important as is the durability of the buttons.

Also think about how often you're going to wear the shirt and, though it's not that pleasant to think about, how much you sweat during the day. These should also factor into the type of shirt that's best for you.

When you do find a shirt that works, buy a number of them so you have plenty in your wardrobe. Consider keeping three white shirts in rotation. White is classic and adaptable, so you really can't go wrong. Finding a shirt that fits isn't easy, and having a ready supply will ultimately save time and money.

And remember that a men's dress shirt has a limited life. According to the Dry Cleaning and Laundry Institute, a trade organization, a shirt should hold up for 35 to 50 washings. This number varies, however, based on several factors, including type of laundering, strain, and fiber content. When thinking about how long a dress shirt should last, remember these two words: wear and care.

Wear

Wearing a t-shirt beneath a dress shirt extends its life. The t-shirt acts as protection from sweat and deodorant, which can weaken fabric. Wearing a watch or other jewelry can cause wear and tear on fabric, so be aware of the size of your watch and other jewelry. Resting elbows on a desk can cause also tears and strains.

A shirt that fits well, particularly in the collar, will extend its life. If a shirt is too tight, the torso area will suffer and show signs of weakened seams.

Care

Like most things in life, the better you care for your dress shirt, the longer it will last!