Page 132 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2024

SHOPPING
story by Barbara Travis
THE CLASSIC WHITE SHIRT
Who doesn’t love a great, button-up white shirt? It’s a classic wardrobe staple for men and women alike. A crisp, tailored white shirt goes with most anything, quietly commands respect,
and exudes freshness, pristine cleanliness, affluence, and professionalism. Why is this? How can something so simple play such an important role in a basic, well-appointed wardrobe?
ACCORDING TO HISTORY
During the Renaissance period of history, members of the European nobility embraced the white shirt as a visible symbol of their elite status, affluence, and as a depiction of purity and virtue. That symbolism continued into the Victorian era and beyond when white shirts were a mark of wealth and upper-class distinction. Remnants of that designation live with us today. Fast forward – white shirts rule at the office, social events, and in general can be styled for most any occasion.
FEMININE
Whether you’re looking for the perfect work shirt or an easy way to
jazz up your favorite pair of jeans, the classic style of a well-fitted white button-up shirt suits every occasion. Some versions feature feminine features like special buttons or cuffs made for snappy, attention-getting cuff links. A white shirt provides the perfect canvas for a woman to show her fashion creativity by partnering it with well-chosen accessories. Style Tip: If your shirt will not be tucked into pants or a skirt or under a jacket for the office, try sizing up for a roomier, more comfortable and casual presentation allowing sleeves to be rolled up to bracelet length.
MASCULINE
Nothing looks better than a man in a pristine white shirt. It reigns supreme in the male fashion world. According to research, women find men more attractive in white shirts whether they be tee-shirts or white collared shirts. Therefore, every man’s shirt collection should include at least one nice white shirt; and two or three or more are even better! Whether worn causally with dark jeans or chinos or leveled up with a sport coat or with a suit, the white shirt is an important and essential element for any well-dressed man.
It always has and always will stand the test of time in projecting good taste and self-confidence.
132 | August 2024