The best denim shirts for men in 2026 (and how to wear them)
The denim shirt is still one of the most useful pieces of clothing you can own
By 
DAVID BECKHAM, Robert Redford, Michael B. Jordan and Ralph Lauren all swear by it – the denim shirt is a true workhorse when it comes to building a great wardrobe. Whether that’s in the shape of an Oxford, Western or workshirt or a more contemporary cut, a denim shirt – of any variety – should be hanging in every man’s wardrobe.
I’m guilty of it too. The default is a crisp white Oxford. Reliable, easy, predictable. It goes with everything and asks very little of you.
But a denim shirt does much the same job, with more texture and slightly more point of view.
Redford wore his as a uniform, whether on his Utah ranch or on screen. Ralph Lauren built it into his version of American prep, often with a tie. Beckham still leans on it now, occasionally pushing into double denim without overthinking it.
It’s not a statement piece. It just does more than you expect.
How to wear a denim shirt
Get the fit right
Fit depends on how you plan to wear it. Under a blazer, keep it standard or slim so it sits clean through the body. Worn open or layered, a slightly roomier cut feels more natural.
The main thing to avoid is tightness through the armholes. If it pulls there, you’ll notice it quickly.
Understand the different styles
An Oxford denim shirt is the easiest entry point. No chest pockets, clean front, works under tailoring.
Western shirts are cut longer and looser, designed for movement. They make more sense worn open over a T-shirt.
Workwear styles sit somewhere in between. A single pocket, slightly structured, easy to wear with anything.
Wearing it with tailoring
A denim shirt under a blazer works best when the shirt is simple. No heavy stitching, no oversized pockets. Treat it like you would a cotton button-down, just with more texture.
How to do double denim
Double denim comes down to tone. Keep the shades close, but not identical.
A lighter shirt with darker jeans is the easiest way in. Raw denim is the exception, where matching top and bottom can feel intentional rather than forced.
Why the denim shirt holds up
The real advantage is how it wears in. That white shirt you love? Stains as soon as you look at it. Black fades unevenly. To be fair, most cotton shirts look tired before they look interesting.
Denim does the opposite. The more you wear it, the better it looks, as the softness and fading bring character rather than making it look old and in need of refresh.
Which, for something this easy to wear, is a fairly strong return.
The best denim shirts you need in your wardrobe right now
Ralph Lauren
Staple denim shirt par excellence. Not too heavy or thick, easy to wear under a sports coat or paired with denim. Personally, I prefer a button-down collar so this one is on high rotation in my wardrobe. If you’re new to the denim shirt game, this is your natural choice.
Christian Kimber
Pre-faded, washed and soft as butter – Kimber’s signature “lived in” aesthetic shines in this light blue denim shirt. Produced in their Porto workshop, the relaxed fit is ideal for layering. This is also a personal favourite for its roomier feel and softer fabric.
If you’re opting for something more elevated that still has a rugged look, this is your pick.
Prada
Black denim is the uniform of music legends like Johnny Cash and Elvis. Prada’s take on the rock and roll staple keeps that edge with its washed detailing but retains that elevated sense of luxury. The short sleeves are great choice for a more style-forward fashion choice.
Levi’s
If you’re a stickler for authenticity and provenance, Levi’s is the only choice. This piece comes from the Levi’s Vintage Collection and features Mother-of-Pearl snap buttons and western yoke details. The trunk is longer for an easier tuck (or let hang loose).
Ralph Lauren RRL
Ralph Lauren’s RRL line is inspired by vintage Americana. This brown denim shirt is inspired by actual workshirts from the 1920s and 30s. Made from Japanese denim it has a standard fit. Pair it with a relaxed pair of trousers and tonal blazer.
Thom Brown
Indigo denim immediately elevates this shirt into a more classic, formal pick. Add to that Thom Browne craftsmanship – this is your new favourite shirt.
Calvin Klein
This might actually be the perfect shade of blue for a denim shirt.
In the 80s and 90s, Calvin Klein had already perfected that minimalist Americana that has influenced so many brands today (cough The Row cough).
Gucci
True, Gucci’s take on a denim shirt does away with any semblance of “rugged” in favour of raffinato. But, it is also a good compromise if you can’t quite let go of the white shirt fixation but still want the feel-good of a denim.
