Fashion brands need precision when communicating with suppliers—especially when sourcing shirts. One small misunderstanding could delay production or affect your final design. So, how can you be sure you’re asking for the right style?
In short: Understanding the 20 most common types of shirts helps you make better decisions during sourcing, design planning, and supplier communication.
Whether you’re launching a new brand, developing a seasonal collection, or custom‑designing apparel for your audience, this guide will help you identify the exact shirt styles you need.
1. What is an Aloha (Hawaiian) Shirt?
The Aloha shirt brings a relaxed vacation vibe to your collection—great for resort wear or summer drops.
Helpful Tip: It’s a short-sleeved, loose-fit shirt with bright prints and a flat hem for untucked wear.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Use lightweight rayon or cotton
- Ensure print alignment at seams
- Flat hem and convertible collar are must-haves
2. What is a Baseball Shirt?
Inspired by sports uniforms, this shirt blends casual and athletic style—ideal for streetwear brands.
Helpful Tip: Raglan sleeves, button placket, and contrasting colors define this relaxed shirt.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Look for cotton or polyester blends
- Offer long and short sleeve options
- Custom branding or logos work well here
3. What is a Camp Shirt?
This shirt is a summer essential and perfect for casual or semi-formal collections.
Helpful Tip: A camp shirt has a one-piece collar, boxy fit, and flat hem—worn untucked.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Use linen or cotton poplin
- Soft, flowy drape appeals to women’s wear
- Keep topstitching clean around collar
4. What is a Casual or Sports Shirt?
A staple for everyday wear—this is the go-to for comfortable but neat looks.
Helpful Tip: Shorter length for untucked wear, relaxed fit, and textured fabrics.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Chambray, denim, or light flannel
- Offer chest pockets and contrast stitching
- Great for supermarkets and lifestyle brands
5. What is a Dress Shirt?
The foundation of formalwear and uniforms, essential for office or event collections.
Helpful Tip: A button-up shirt with collar and cuffs, usually tucked in.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Choose high-density cotton or blended poplin
- French cuffs or single-button cuffs
- Requires precise tailoring
6. What is an Epaulette Shirt?
It offers a military touch to your designs and works for themed or uniformed collections.
Helpful Tip: Shoulder straps (epaulettes), often paired with flap pockets.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Use sturdy twill or canvas fabric
- Ensure epaulettes are stitched symmetrically
- Add brass or military-inspired buttons
7. What is a Flannel or Lumberjack Shirt?
Warm, durable, and casual—great for colder seasons or rugged style lines.
Helpful Tip: A soft plaid shirt made from flannel with patch pockets.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Prioritize plaid matching at seams
- Brushed cotton flannel for softness
- Use reinforced stitching on pockets
8. What is a Granddad Shirt?
Minimal and timeless, this shirt is a great alternative to the traditional collar.
Helpful Tip: It has a mandarin (band) collar and full-length buttons.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Ideal in linen or textured cotton
- Works for both men’s and women’s wear
- Must maintain clean neckline shape
9. What is a Golf Shirt?
A smart-casual essential that’s both athletic and classy.
Helpful Tip: Knit polo-style shirt with collar and a short button placket.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Piqué cotton or polyester blends
- Anti-odor or moisture-wicking features
- Add branding on chest or sleeve
10. What is a Polo Shirt?
One of the best-selling shirt styles—every collection should have one.
Helpful Tip: Short-sleeved knit shirt with a collar and 2-3 buttons.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Offer in various fits: slim, classic, oversized
- Ribbed cuffs and collar for shape
- Add tipping stripes for design twist
11. What is a Night Shirt?
Ideal for loungewear lines or sleepwear collections.
Helpful Tip: A long, loose cotton shirt designed for bedtime comfort.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Soft cotton jersey or woven poplin
- Flat seams for comfort
- Meets safety certifications for kids’ lines
12. What is a Tuxedo Shirt?
Add this for customers seeking formal or luxury designs.
Helpful Tip: A formal shirt with a bib or pleated front—worn with a tuxedo.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Use crisp white cotton or cotton blends
- Include French cuffs or wingtip collar
- Packaging and presentation matter
13. What is a Tunic Shirt?
A flexible choice for modest or resort-style clothing lines.
Helpful Tip: A long, loose-fit shirt often with slits and minimal collars.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Choose breathable linen or cotton voile
- Style for layering or standalone wear
- Consider side slits and curved hem
14. What is a Western Shirt?
Popular in themed collections and country-inspired lines.
Helpful Tip: Features pointed yokes, snap buttons, and bold contrast stitching.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Add decorative embroidery or piping
- Prioritize yoke symmetry
- Reinforced stress points on cuffs and plackets
15. What is a Sweatshirt?
Great for casual or streetwear lines, especially in cooler seasons.
Helpful Tip: A thick pullover made from fleece or terry cotton, no collar.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- French terry or brushed fleece
- Ribbed hems and cuffs
- Pre-shrunk fabric is key for fit retention
16. What is a T-shirt?
The core of any casual collection.
Helpful Tip: A collarless, short-sleeved knit shirt—usually made of jersey fabric.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- 100% cotton or cotton blends
- Side seam or tubular construction
- Custom prints or embroidery for brand identity
17. What is a Henley Shirt?
Great for casual basics with a stylish twist.
Helpful Tip: Like a T-shirt but with a short button placket and no collar.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Short or long sleeves available
- Use slub jersey or textured knit
- Button placket adds value and detail
18. What is a Jersey Shirt?
A soft, flexible option for relaxed and sporty designs.
Helpful Tip: Made from stretch jersey fabric, great for comfort-focused collections.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Ideal for children’s and lounge lines
- Keep neckline stable during wear
- Watch for fabric pilling during tests
19. What is a Shirt Dress (Bonus Type)?
Shirt dresses blur the line between dresses and tops—popular in women’s wear.
Helpful Tip: Long button-up shirts styled as dresses, often belted.
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Light fabrics for drape
- Accurate sizing for bust and waist
- Add side slits or pockets for function
20. What is an Overshirt?
Perfect for layering—an oversized, jacket-like shirt.
Helpful Tip: Made from heavy flannel or twill, often styled like a shacket (shirt-jacket).
Key Sourcing Notes:
- Choose thick, structured fabrics
- Offer in plaid or solids
- Include button or snap closures
Conclusion
By understanding these shirt styles, you can better communicate with your factory, guide your designers, and create pieces that match your brand vision. Want to custom-produce any of these styles? Contact me at [email protected] to get started.
Truekung — Professional Wholesale Clothing Manufacturer | www.truekung.com
For: Maria from Russia and brand owners sourcing fashion and accessories.
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