You don’t have to be a fashion expert to know that accessories can make or break an outfit. The same goes for shirts – the right accessories can take your look from boring to dapper in no time.
If you’re looking to add some extra style to your shirt game, check out our list of 30+ shirt accessories for men. From pocket squares and tie bars to collar pins and cuff links, we’ve got you covered.
1. Pocket Square
A pocket square is a small piece of fabric that is placed in the breast pocket of a shirt or jacket. It is primarily used for aesthetic purposes but can also be used to wipe away sweat or moisture from the face.
Pocket squares are an excellent way to add some elegance to your look. For example, a white pocket square can really make a blue shirt pop.
Some of the best materials for pocket squares include:
- Silk
- Linen
- Cotton
2. Tie Clips & Bars
Tie clips and bars are functional accessories that keep your tie in place and add a touch of style to your outfit. Tie clips are placed near the third button on your dress shirt, holding the tie to the shirt. Tie bars, on the other hand, are placed horizontally across the tie, about midway between the collar and the end of the tie. Both tie clips and bars come in a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood. When choosing a tie clip or bar, be sure to select one that is the same width as your tie.
Tie bars should be placed between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt. The tie bar should be roughly the same width as your tie.
3. Collar Pin
A collar pin is a small metal or plastic pin that is used to secure the collar of a shirt. It is placed through the fabric of the shirt and fastened on the underside of the collar.
Collar pins are an excellent way to keep your collar looking sharp and professional. They also help to prevent the collar from gaping open at the front.
4. Cuff Links
Cuff links are small metal links that are used to fasten the cuff of a shirt. They are placed through the buttonholes of the shirt and fastened on the underside of the cuff.
Cuff links come in a variety of metals, such as brass, silver, and gold. They can also be made from other materials, such as wood, glass, or even plastic.
When it comes to choosing cufflinks, it is important to select a style that compliments your shirt and suit.
5. Shirt Studs
Shirt studs are small metal or plastic discs that are used to fasten the front of a shirt. They are placed through the fabric of the shirt and fastened on the underside of the collar.
Shirt studs are an excellent way to add some extra style to your shirt. They also help to keep the front of the shirt looking neat and tidy.
6. Jackets
A jacket is a piece of clothing that is worn on the upper body. Jackets come in a variety of styles, such as blazers, suit jackets, and sports jackets.
Jackets are an excellent way to add some extra warmth to your outfit. They can also be used to dress up a casual look.
When choosing a jacket to go over your shirt, you need to consider various factors. For example, the climate you live in and the occasion you are dressing for.
If you live in a warm climate, then a denim or leather jacket would be a good choice. If you are dressing for a formal affair, then you might want to choose a suit jacket.
7. Belts
A belt is a strip of material that is worn around the waist. Belts are used to hold up trousers and keep your shirt tucked in.
Belts can also be used as a fashion accessory and can even make or break a shirt. They come in a variety of styles, such as leather, fabric, and metal.
When choosing a belt to go with your shirt, you need to consider the occasion. For example, a black leather belt would be more appropriate for a formal situation than a brightly colored fabric belt.
8. Ties
A tie is a strip of material that is worn around the neck. Ties are generally worn with suits or other formal clothing.
Ties come in a variety of styles, such as striped, patterned, and solid-colored. When choosing a tie to go with your shirt, you need to consider the occasion you are dressing for.
For example, a brightly colored or patterned tie would be more appropriate for a casual occasion than a solid-colored tie.
Ties generally look best when worn with a shirt and a jacket. However, if you are going to forego the jacket, then you need to consider the following advice:
- The tie should be a different color from your shirt.
- The tie should be a contrasting color to your trousers.
- The tie should be a few inches longer than your belt.
Ideally, your tie material should match your pocket square material in order to keep your look congruent. Some of the best materials for ties include silk, wool, and linen.
9. Collar Stays
A collar stay is a unique accessory in that it is not actually visible. However, the presence of a collar stay makes all the difference in the appearance of a collared shirt. Simply put, collar stays keep the collars of your shirt from curling or drooping. They come in a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and even bone. If you don’t like the idea of having something tucked into your shirt collar all day, consider magnetic collar stays. These handy little devices attach to the inside of your shirt collar and snap into place.
10. Suspenders
Suspenders are strips of material that are worn over the shoulders and clipped onto the front of your trousers. They come in a variety of styles, including leather, fabric, and metal. Suspenders are a great and practical accessory. They are used to keep your trousers from falling down and can also be used as a fashion statement.
Suspenders come in all different styles and colors. You can find them made from materials like leather, fabric, and even metal. You can also find suspenders that are clear, so they’re practically invisible.
11. Lapel Pins
Lapel pins are small pins that are worn on the lapel of a jacket. They come in a variety of styles, including metal, plastic, and enamel. Lapel pins can be purely decorative, or they can convey a message, such as support for a political candidate. When choosing a lapel pin, you need to consider the occasion you are dressing for.
For example, a lapel pin that is brightly colored or has a lot of detail would be more appropriate for a casual occasion than a simple metal lapel pin.
12. Flower Lapel Pins
These get their own category due to their cultural significance. Flower lapel pins are a type of lapel pin that is made from a real or artificial flower. They are a popular choice for casual and formal occasions alike.
For example, a brightly colored artificial flower would be more appropriate for a casual affair than a real flower. However, real flowers are very popular for dances and weddings.
13. Pearl Buttons
Pearl buttons are small, round buttons that are made from real or artificial pearls. They are a popular choice for dress shirts and other formal clothing.
When choosing pearl buttons for your shirt, you need to take into account the occasion you will be dressing for. For example, pearl buttons would be more appropriate for a formal occasion than plastic buttons.
These types of buttons can go on your shirt or on your jacket, depending on your personal style and preference.
14. Epaulets
Epaulets are small, decorative pieces of fabric that are worn on the shoulders of a shirt or jacket. They come in a variety of styles, including metal, plastic, and fabric. Epaulets can be purely decorative, or they can serve a functional purpose, such as holding your sunglasses.
15. Pocket protector
A pocket protector is a small, rectangular piece of fabric that is worn in the breast pocket of a shirt. It is typically made from a waterproof or stain-resistant material. Pocket protectors come in a variety of styles, including clear plastic, solid-colored fabric, and patterned fabric.
These are the most useful in office settings when you need to keep your pens and pencils from ruining your shirt pocket. However, they can also be used for a variety of other purposes, such as holding your sunglasses or keeping your keys from scratching your phone.
16. Shoulder pads
Shoulder pads are small, round pieces of padding that are worn on the shoulders of a shirt or jacket. They come in a variety of styles, including foam, gel, and fabric. Shoulder pads can be purely decorative, or they can serve a functional purpose, such as providing support for your shoulders. These are great for office settings or for any occasion when you need to dress up your look.
17. Pocket watch
A pocket watch is a small, round clock that is worn in the pocket of a shirt or jacket. Pocket watches come in a variety of styles, including metal, plastic, and fabric. Pocket watches can be purely decorative, or they can serve a functional purpose, such as telling time. You can attach them to your shirt or waistcoat with a chain, or you can keep them in your pocket.
18. Waistcoat
A waistcoat is a sleeveless garment that is worn over a shirt. Waistcoats come in a variety of styles, including solid-colored, patterned, and textured.
They are typically made from a wool or cotton blend. When choosing a waistcoat, you’ll need to make sure that it is designed to fit over your shirt so that you will be comfortable wearing it all day. Additionally, you’ll need to consider if you’ll be wearing a jacket over your waistcoat. If so, you’ll need to make sure that the waistcoat is not too bulky.
Waistcoats can also be worn without jackets to make a fashion statement. For example, you can wear a waistcoat with a pair of jeans and a t-shirt for a casual look.
19. Cummerbund
A cummerbund – like a waistcoat – is a wide, pleated sash that is worn around the waist. Cummerbunds are typically made from a silk or polyester blend. They come in a variety of solid colors and patterns.
When choosing a cummerbund, you’ll need to make sure that it is the right size for your waist. The occasions where you would wear this piece of clothing are typically more formal, such as a wedding or a black-tie event.
20. Shirt stays
Shirt stays are small, adjustable straps that are worn under a shirt to keep it from riding up. Shirt stays come in a variety of styles, including clear plastic, metal, and fabric. They typically attach to the bottom of your shirt with clips or Velcro.
When choosing shirt stays, you’ll need to make sure that they are the right size for your shirt and that they will stay in place all day. Shirt stays are a great way to keep your shirt looking neat and tidy, even when you’re moving around a lot.
21. Overcoat
An overcoat is a long, outer garment that is worn over a shirt. Overcoats come in a variety of styles, including single-breasted and double-breasted. They are typically made from a wool or cashmere blend.
When choosing an overcoat, you’ll need to make sure that it is the right size for your shirt and that it will keep you warm in cold weather. Overcoats are a great way to dress up your look for a formal occasion.
22. Tassels
Tassels are small, decorative cords that are attached to the corners of a shirt. Tassels come in a variety of colors and styles. When choosing tassels, you’ll need to make sure that they are the right size and style for your shirt. Tassels are a great way to add a touch of personality to your shirt.
23. Watches
While technically a piece of jewelry you wear on your wrist, the right watch can make or break your shirt. When it comes to choosing a shirt to wear with your watch, you’ll want to make sure you can roll up your sleeves easily. This way, you can ensure that your watch is visible at all times. You’ll also want to make sure that the shirt you choose doesn’t clash with your watch in terms of style.
24. Zipper pockets
Zipper pockets are small, hidden pockets that are built into a shirt. Zipper pockets come in handy for storing small items, such as your ID or credit card. When choosing a shirt with a zipper pocket, you’ll need to make sure that the pocket is the right size for your needs.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the pocket is not too visible. Zipper pockets are a good way to keep your belongings safe and close at hand.
25. Monograms
Monograms are letters that are embroidered or printed on a shirt. Monograms are typically used to personalize a shirt. When choosing a monogram, you’ll need to make sure that it is the right size and style for your shirt. Additionally, you’ll need to choose a location for your monogram. Monograms can be placed on the chest, cuff, collar, sleeve, or back of a shirt.
26. Common buttons
Buttons are small, round discs that are used to fasten a shirt. Common buttons are usually white or match the color of the shirt. They are also typically made from plastic. When choosing buttons for your shirt, you’ll need to make sure that they are the right size and style for your shirt. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the buttons are durable and easy to use.
27. French Cuffs
French cuffs are a type of shirt cuff that is folded over and fastened with a button. French cuffs are typically worn with a suit or tuxedo. When choosing a shirt with French cuffs, you’ll need to make sure that the cuffs are the right size for your wrists. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the cuffs are easy to fasten and unfasten.
28. Decorative Buttons
Different from common buttons, decorative buttons are usually larger and more ornate. Some can be functional, while others are used for purely aesthetic purposes. When choosing decorative buttons for your shirt, you’ll need to make sure that they are the right size and style for your shirt.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the buttons won’t fall off easily and that you have extras so that you can replace them if necessary.
29. Pullover Sweaters
Pullover sweaters are a type of shirt that is typically worn over another shirt. Pullover sweaters come in a variety of styles, such as V-neck, turtleneck, and crew neck. When choosing a pullover sweater, you’ll need to make sure that it is the right size for your shirt and that it will keep you warm. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the sweater is easy to put on and take off.
There are several different ways to wear a pullover sweater. Some of the most common include:
- Layering it over a button-down shirt
- Pairing it with a collared shirt
- Tying it loosely around the shoulders
30. Shirt Pocket Money Clips
Shirt pocket money clips are small metal clips that are used to keep money in place. Shirt pocket money clips are a great way to keep your money organized and accessible. When choosing a shirt money clip, you’ll need to make sure that it is the right size for your needs. You’ll also want to make sure that the clip is easy to use and that it won’t damage your clothing.
31. Zip collars
Zip collars are a type of shirt collar that can be fastened with a zip. Zip collars are typically worn with casual shirts. When choosing a shirt with a zip collar, you’ll need to make sure that the zip is the right size for your neck. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the zip is easy to use and that it won’t damage your shirt.
32. Zip sleeves
Like zip collars, zip sleeves are a type of shirt sleeve that can be fastened with a zip. This is a great style for men who want to be able to take their shirt off quickly and easily or who want to be able to adjust the ventilation of their shirt. Zip sleeves are also a good choice for men who have large biceps or triceps, as they can provide a snug fit without being constricting.
33. Button cuffs
Button cuffs are a type of shirt cuff that fastens with one or more buttons. This is a very classic shirt cuff style, and it is still seen on many dress shirts today. Button cuffs can be adjusted to create a snugger or looser fit, and they also offer some level of adjustability in terms of sleeve length.
34. Roll-up sleeves
Roll-up sleeves are a type of shirt sleeve that can be rolled up and fastened in place. This is a great sleeve style for men who want to be able to adjust their sleeve length or who want the option of rolling their sleeves up when it gets warm. Roll-up sleeves are another solid option for men who have large biceps or triceps.
35. Cuffed sleeves
Cuffed sleeves are a type of shirt sleeve that has a band of fabric at the bottom that can be rolled up and fastened in place. This is a classic shirt sleeve style that is still seen on many dress shirts today. Cuffed sleeves can be adjusted to create a snugger or looser fit, and they also offer some level of adjustability in terms of sleeve length.
36. Convertible collars
Convertible collars are a type of shirt collar that can be worn in multiple ways. This is a great style for men who want to be able to change up their look or who need a collar that will work with multiple shirt styles. Convertible collars are typically made from a softer, more flexible material, which makes them more comfortable to wear.
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