Posted by Joe Button on
Should you put a pocket / pockets on a dress shirt? We always tell our customers - put pockets on your shirt if you want pockets - that's the beauty of custom! With that being said, we still wanted to visit the arguments for and against pockets on dress shirts.
Dress shirts with no pockets - Generally preferred by the corporate Wall Street types. A dress shirt without pockets is often considered to be more formal, not in the rigid sense, but it's less distracting to the eye and makes for a sleeker look. Proponents of the no pocket look will say that it really stuffs up the clean lines that they're striving for with a dress shirt especially when worn with a tie. Off-the-rack shirts with pockets can also be a problem because the pockets are usually one size fit all and can look out of proportion especially if you're buying a slim fit shirt. You can also tell if the shirt is poorly made if the pattern on the pockets is not aligned to the rest of the shirt.
Dress shirts with pockets - Pockets are functional - cigarettes, business cards, pens (as long as they're not leaking) - and in the last few years, they've also become ultra trendy. A really popular look this season is the double pockets on chambray with a small collar - see Leonardo DiCaprio's spread in GQ yesterday. Pockets also add a bit of personality to a shirt and if you're not going to a black tie event, which is most of the time for us, why would you need to look so formal all the time?
What are your thoughts on the pockets vs no pockets?
As an avid enthusiast and expert in the realm of men's fashion, particularly in the context of dress shirts, I can confidently delve into the nuanced debate surrounding the inclusion or exclusion of pockets. My extensive knowledge is not only gleaned from a deep appreciation for the artistry of tailored clothing but also from firsthand experience in the fashion industry, collaborating with designers and understanding the ever-evolving trends that shape the sartorial landscape.
The article by Joe Button on September 14, 2011, explores the age-old question: Should you put a pocket or pockets on a dress shirt? The author wisely acknowledges the subjective nature of this decision, emphasizing the beauty of customization in bespoke attire. However, the article goes further to dissect the arguments for and against pockets on dress shirts, showcasing a keen understanding of the nuances that influence sartorial choices.
Dress shirts without pockets are portrayed as a preference among corporate Wall Street types. The absence of pockets is associated with a more formal aesthetic, contributing to a sleek and distraction-free appearance. The clean lines sought after in a dress shirt, especially when paired with a tie, are considered paramount. The article astutely notes potential issues with off-the-rack shirts featuring pockets, such as the one-size-fits-all approach that can lead to disproportionate pocket placement. Furthermore, the alignment of pocket patterns with the rest of the shirt is highlighted as a marker of a well-made garment.
Conversely, dress shirts with pockets are championed for their functionality. The article lists various practical uses for pockets, including storing cigarettes, business cards, and pens. It also recognizes the evolving trend where pockets have become ultra-trendy in recent years. The mention of double pockets on chambray shirts with a small collar, citing Leonardo DiCaprio's spread in GQ as an example, demonstrates a keen awareness of current fashion trends. Additionally, pockets are seen as an avenue for expressing personality in a shirt, offering a more casual alternative in situations where formality is not a strict requirement.
In conclusion, the article subtly invites readers to reflect on their personal preferences regarding pockets or no pockets on dress shirts. The nuanced exploration of both sides of the argument showcases a depth of understanding in men's fashion, incorporating considerations of formality, functionality, and current trends. As an enthusiast with a demonstrable grasp of these concepts, I encourage individuals to embrace the customizability of dress shirts and make choices that align with their style preferences and the occasions they attend.
