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spoiler ALERT: The shirt can be left open. Some are designed to hang freely, while others look better that way. Maybe your dad didn’t get the memo, but when did you start listening to anything he said?
If you’re the type of person who likes a little fabric around their tushsie, the best untucked shirts should be on your radar. But with so many options readily available, where do you go to find the crème de la crème? I’m glad you asked.
Keep reading for my take on the best shirts money can buy. You’ll find tons of designs from your favorite brands, along with tons of tips on how to wear them.
key takeaways
Tucking or unbuttoning different types of shirts can really set the tone for your outfit. Especially when it comes to formalities.
For this guide, I’m going to focus on shirts that should be left to hang freely outside your pants. From Luca Faloni’s Button-Down Oxfords to Essex denim alternativeThese are the best untucked shirts for men in sports.

If the summer shirt had a natural habitat, it would be somewhere along the Mediterranean Sea. Linens blowing in the wind, sleeves casually rolled up, a drink nearby. Villebrequin’s Carobois shirt reflects exactly this mood. It’s the kind of piece that feels comfortable but still intentional, the kind of shirt you wear when the weather is working against you but you still want to look presentable.
Cut from 100% linen, it looks best with everything clothing. It’s breathable, naturally cool, and gets better with wear as the fibers soften over time. The straight, relaxed fit keeps the silhouette simple without looking sloppy, while the classic French collar and chest pocket give it enough structure to work beyond the beach. Small details like the tone on tone embroidered turtleneck quietly hint at the brand’s heritage without overpowering the simplicity of the design.
Material: 100% linen | Colour: various | size: S-XXL | Care: Machine wash cold, air dry
If the world’s best untucked shirts were to stand in a field and compete like gladiators, only one style is guaranteed to win. The button-down oxford is the ultimate smart-casual staple; Looks equally good with khakis and loafers as it does with jeans and boots.
This version of Bonobos is as close to perfection as you can get. It’s made from 100% cotton, with just a bit of stretch and a seriously soft handle. You can layer it under or over wardrobe essentials, and it has the impressive ability to never feel out of place (whether you wear it to the office or to a backyard party).
Material: 100% cotton with mechanical stretch | Colour: 16 | size: XS-2XL | Care: machine wash
A closed shirt can make you feel restricted. You are afraid to move for fear of your clothes flying off and you become a little rude. That’s why the best untucked shirts are ideal choices for everyday wear.
The Luca Faloney is smart enough to wear with slacks and fits perfectly with dark jeans or slim-fitting khakis. It is crafted from luxurious Egyptian cotton which is known for its hypoallergenic properties and unmatched breathability. So even on hot days, you’ll still look your best.
Material: 100% cotton | Colour: 4 | size: XS-4XL | Care: machine wash
Some shirts are more appropriate for particular times of year. For example, your favorite Hawaiian number should be saved until summer. Others, however, are seasonal. They look as good in the depth of winter as they do during the height of spring.
Denim shirts offer such versatility. And my favorite is this one from Esket. Fuss-free and made of indigo-dyed cotton, it can be paired with almost any choice of pants. Plus it can take you from office days to after-work drinks.
Material: 100% cotton | Colour: 2 | size: XS-XL | Care: machine wash
At one time, unbuttoned shirts were worn by unruly schoolchildren who roamed the halls wearing very small ties and sneakers as shoes. Today, they are a must-have in every well-furnished wardrobe. That’s why Amazon gives them plenty of offers.
My favorite (and soon yours too) is this one from UNTUCKit. Specially designed to be left outside your pants, it is an excellent all-rounder that can be paired with jeans, khakis or slacks. It’s made from nylon with plenty of stretch to ensure all-day comfort and maximum mobility. If you like what you see, keep in mind that the cut of this style is a little shorter than many other brands. So, if you are between sizes, I suggest you order one size up.
Material: 92% Nylon, 8% Elastane | Colour: 1 | size: M-XL | Care: machine wash
When it comes to dressing smart, your default outfit will probably be a shirt and tie. And if this is the case, you should always protect yourself. But what if I told you that you can still look great, yet feel a lot more comfortable?
COOFANDY’s muscle fit option looks best uncovered. Even better, it hugs you in all the right places, yet has enough stretch to keep you comfortable all day long. If you’re going to dress up, wear it with slacks, otherwise it would look great with skinny jeans.
Material: 50% Cotton, 48% Polyester, 2% Spandex | Colour: 24 | size: XS-4XL | Care: machine wash
Remember when I said your dad didn’t get the memo about untucked shirts? Well, maybe he didn’t. But I’m sure he’ll learn the power of a good corduroy number. So why don’t you make her proud with H&M’s wallet-friendly alternative?
Comfortable but elegantly rugged, this is the kind of shirt you’ll wear season after season – and chances are it’ll look even better with time. I’ll often wear one open with my best t-shirt and jeans, but a button-up can look just as good with cargo and your favorite high-top sneakers.
Material: 100% cotton | Colour: 4 | size: XS-3XL | Care: machine wash
Luxury is not necessarily determined by the brand name. And the best untucked shirts aren’t always the most expensive. Yet this design of the fear of God proves that sometimes this is the case. So, gather money and make an investment that you will definitely not regret.
Featuring drop shoulder seams for a comfortable, contemporary look, it’s a must-have for streetwear enthusiasts and city dwellers alike. You can wear it with dad jeans and sneakers for a slightly casual outfit, or dress it down with slim-fitting slacks and derby shoes. Either way, you’ll be the talk of the town.
Material: 52% cotton, 46% wool, 2% elastane | Colour: 3 | size: XS-3XL | Care: dry clean
Men’s untucked shirts are good for everyone. But when it comes to people with shorter than average height, it’s important to choose a style that doesn’t make you look short. So how do you do that? It all fits.
Cut to a slimmer size to ensure you’re not bogged down by clothes, Onia’s smart-casual staple hits all the right notes. Offered in navy for utmost versatility, it should fall just above your pants – giving the impression that your legs are longer and your torso is just right. Wear shorts in summer, replace them with jeans or khakis when the temperature rises.
Material: 52% Linen, 23% Cotton, 23% Rayon, 2% Spandex | Colour: 3 | size: S-2XL | Care: washing hands
A work shirt should be smart but you should also be comfortable wearing it. There’s nothing worse than spending the day wishing you could just unbutton and wear your favorite inexpensive tee.
Non-iron styles are great for convenience. The problem is, they often come with a long hem – which means they tend to look a little sloppy if you leave them open. The solution is Van Heusen’s Never Tuck Shirt. Featuring a short cut across the body, you can hang it freely pairing it with everything from khakis to smart slacks.
Material: 65% Cotton, 31% Polyester, 4% Elastane | Colour: 3 | size: S-2XL | Care: machine wash
On days when a flannel shirt feels a little too stuffy, a timeless Henley tee is your happy medium. They might not get you in the door to a super fancy restaurant, but they’re a great everyday choice that offers endless styling opportunities.
This one from Billy Reed can be worn alone with shorts and espadrilles, or under an overshirt with cargo and sneakers. The textured slub gives it a slightly more serious feel, but for relaxed days in the city, you can simply roll them up and leave a few buttons undone.
Material: 100% organic cotton | Colour: 4 | size: XS-2XL | Care: machine wash
What to look for in the best untucked shirt
Style
Not all shirts can be left open. So if you’re planning on wearing it like this, it’s important to make sure you’re buying the right thing.
Unless it’s specifically a long-lined design, ones with a long hem (below the fly of your pants) are designed to tuck in. Dress shirts are also similar. If it is small, you can leave it uncovered.
Colour
Choosing the color of your shirt isn’t just a matter of personal preference. You should also consider when and where you plan to wear it. For ultimate versatility, use classic colors like white or blue.
Bold patterns and bright colors may be your thing (and they’re great), but just keep in mind that this may reduce the number of times you get to show it off.
Material
The material of a garment not only depends on its comfort but also how easy it is to care for. Some clothes are also better suited to different types of weather. Cotton is an excellent all-rounder, while linen should be saved for summer. Don’t be afraid to do a little more research to make sure you’re making the right purchase.
final call
Your search for the best untucked shirt should now be nearing its conclusion. Just take your pick from my recommendations and you’ll soon be happy as compliments start coming your way.
And if you’re still considering your options, don’t forget about bonobos button-down oxford. A timeless addition to any wardrobe, this is the perfect versatile piece that will easily fit into your current daily rotation.
FAQ
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Generally speaking, casual shirts, such as button-down oxfords, look best untucked. However, you will find some formal styles that are like this as well. The key is in the length of the hem. If it’s too long, hide it. If not, you can leave it uncovered.
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To determine whether or not your shirt can be left open, simply check where it falls on your lower body. A shirt that sits around the fly on your pants can be left untucked. If they’re any longer, you’ll probably need to tuck them in.
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For the most formal settings, an untucked shirt may be considered unprofessional. Especially if you are wearing it with a tie. However, for weekend fit or business casual attire, this is perfectly acceptable.
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Billie is a content specialist and social media manager. His portfolio includes articles for publications such as British GQ, Esquire and Men’s Health. Describing himself as a lover of luxury streetwear, he admits to an unhealthy passion for baseball caps and high-end sneakers.

