The blue shirt is one of the most understated items of clothing in your closets. This is surprising because this is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing in men's fashion. Like the white shirt, this shirt goes well with just about any colour, can work formal or informal wear, and adds just the right amount of colour. Additionally, it qualifies as your go-to shirt - when in doubt, go blue.
In fact, Spring Summer 2012 was a blue, blue one. The colour showed up in all collections on the runway, and of course, this was the year of the all blue suit. Fast-forward to 2014 - while blue has found the fame it enjoyed two years ago; it has been relegated to that quite wardrobe essential.
When I talk about the colour blue here, I am referring to all shades of blue. This is because when you match different hues of blue with one another, you get a rather striking outfit. This colour works as your focal point, your statement and even your sidekick - it's that versatile.
dearJulius.com gives you four blue looks that will ensure "blue" is the new black.
Look 1
For a formal look, let's focus on an all blue suit. Choose a dark blue or navy blue suit and trousers. This will allow you to opt for a light blue shirt and tie. This will make for a telling contrast, and while the dark blue sets off your shirt beautifully, your tie can either up play or downplay your look depending on the occasion you're attending. Like the shirt, ensure that your pocket square and socks are of a lighter shade of blue too.
You can experiment with a blue check shirt, and if you do, you'll do well to choose a tie from a different colour family. You can opt for baby pink or a steely grey.
Look 2
If you want a formal look that doesn't include wearing a suit, opt for dark blue trousers teamed with a sky blue shirt. While this look may seem clinical, once worn, it's a classic, fuss-free look that works at work and play, too. You can choose to wear a tie with this, and if you do, make sure your tie becomes this look's focal point.
Look 3
For a totally informal, yet quirky look - wear a dark blue shirt on beige shorts. Since this is an informal look, opt for a short-sleeve blue shirt. Top off this look with navy blue deck shoes.
Look 4
How can we ever forget the light blue shirt teamed with dark blue jeans. This is timeless and has been around for time immortal. More than putting this look together, it's about how you choose to wear it. You can choose to wear your shirt tucked in or you can leave it out. In case you tuck your shirt in, make sure that your belt and shoes complement one another. Technically, stylists of yore insisted on matching belts with shoes, however, rules are meant to be broken. So, when teaming a light blue shirt with dark blue jeans, wear a tanned belt. If you want your belt to make a statement, wear an orange belt. Brown shoes can finish off this look.
Go on, blue beckons!
By Nisha Samson
