How to Style a Long-Sleeve Shirt in 5 Ways

Whether you’re relaxing at home or going on your next adventure with a travel capsule wardrobe, no piece keeps you comfortable like a long-sleeve shirt. 

The long-sleeve shirt pairs with everything from denim jeans to chinos. Button it up for more polish, or wear it open for a more casual jacket appeal. And if that’s not versatile enough, you can find long-sleeve shirts made of heavier or lighter fabric to fit the whole calendar year.

What are the modern ways to sport this wardrobe staple? Learn how to style a long-sleeve shirt with statement pieces from mnml.

The Basics of Styling a Long-Sleeve Shirt

So, what should you consider before purchasing a long-sleeve shirt?

Selecting the Right Fit

Find a fit that complements your body type. Not only will it be more comfortable, but it’ll give you that polished look.

Not sure which fit is right for you? Here are a few suggestions to point you in the right direction:

• Slim-fit – As the name suggests, a slim-fit long-sleeve shirt is tailored to mold more closely to your body. This fit is ideal for casual and semi-formal occasions and pairs well with tailored trousers for a more sophisticated look.

• Regular fit – Shirts with a regular fit have a more relaxed silhouette, giving you more room in the chest, waist, and arms. They’re the perfect in-between shirt for everyday wear—not too loose or too tight, but just right. 

• Oversized fit – If you’re going for an urban or streetwear style, the oversized fit provides the perfect base for your casual style. Intentionally designed to be large and loose, you can pair them with a pair of relaxed-fit corduroy pants for a winning look.

Fabric and Texture Choices

Let the weather guide you when selecting fabrics and textiles. During the warm summer months, opt for the light and breathable feel of cotton, while thicker fabrics like wool provide warmth during the colder months. 

And when it comes to styling your long-sleeve shirt, don't underestimate the power of texture. Take that old corduroy jacket out of retirement and pair it with a long-sleeve rugby shirt. The juxtaposition adds a layer of richness and depth to your ensemble, elevating your style from one-note to complex and interesting.

How to Style a Long-Sleeve Shirt: 4 Ways

Okay, you’ve nailed the basics. Time to move on to phase two: styling. Below, we explore five of our favorite long-sleeve styling trends.

#1 Pair it With Denim

Denim is a staple in your wardrobe rotation. If you opt for an oversized long-sleeve, complement it with distressed denim jeans that are skinny-fit.

#2 Layer It with a T-shirt

Wondering how to style graphic tees? Blend function with fashion by layering a laid-back graphic t-shirt over a plain long-sleeved shirt for a casual look that’s still tasteful. 

#3 Wear It Under a Statement Jacket

As the weather cools down, long-sleeve shirts become your go-to base layer, allowing your outerwear to stand out. Wear a jacket that speaks volumes, like a cropped camo piece. It makes a bold statement for an event.

#4 Pair With Cargo Pants and Sneakers

We don’t know if you heard, but cargo pants are staging a giant comeback. You can join the trend and simultaneously craft an ensemble by teaming up a long-sleeve shirt with vintage olive cargo pants and a pair of retro sneakers.

Seasonal Styling

Think you can style those long-sleeve shirts the same all year long? Not quite. With a little finessing, though, you’ll have seasonal styling mastered.

Spring and Summer

As the temperatures rise, choose lightweight fabrics to stay confident and cool. Roll up your long sleeves for a laid-back approach and pair with shorts and open-toed sandals for a go-to summer style.

Fall and Winter

In the colder months, your long-sleeve tee is your comfortable base layer for sweaters and jackets to rest upon. Layer your long-sleeve shirts with chunkier, heavy-knit sweaters and cardigans, then top it all off with a relaxed coat to bring both warmth and swagger to the table.

Find All Your Long-Sleeve Shirt Essentials With mnml

No matter the time of year, there’s always a time and a place for long-sleeve shirts, especially when you know how to style them successfully.

Instead of sporting your old shirts, indulge in fresh streetwear additions from the mnml collection. From everyday favorites to statement pieces, we’ve got everything you need to upgrade your wardrobe with high-quality streetwear essentials.