Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Fashion & Style

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Layer Up With Our Picks of the Best Men’s Denim Shirts

John Jones
By
Man wearing a denim jacket over a statement shirt.

There are certain iconic items that every man should have in his wardrobe: A perfect white T-shirt, crisp khaki trousers, an awesome pair of boots, and white canvas sneakers are at the top of the list. The reason they are archetypal is that each is available in a world of variations so any guy can bend them to his own personal style. Is the T-shirt billowy or long-sleeved? Do the khakis have pleats or patches? Cowboy, desert, or work boots? Classic Chucks or Vans? The same goes for another must-have item, the denim shirt. From reliably masculine Western styles to workwear-inspired silhouettes and limited-edition designer versions, the denim shirt inspires a certain cocky confidence in just about anybody who wears one. Here are just a few of our favorites to round out your wardrobe for 2022. 

The Ultimate OG Denim Shirt: Polo Ralph Lauren 

Polo Ralph Lauren Denim Shirt on a white background.

Classic, meet classic. The man that made the all-American design even more all-American, Ralph Lauren, combines the prep world with the Western frontier in this faded denim button-down. It’s non-stretch denim, with a button-down collar and the signature Polo pony embroidered logo. Get it a size larger and layer over white crewneck T-shirts with khakis and loafers. 

The Authentic Denim Shirt: Wrangler Cowboy Cut

Wrangler Cowboy Cut® Western Denim Snap Work Shirt.

Whether you’re actually riding down to inspect the back forty or just want to look like you are, grab this denim shirt from Wrangler, a brand that real cowboys wear. The yoked shoulder and snap closures give true Western detailing, while the stonewashed denim softens up the look for everyday. Pair it with trim black jeans and work boots for a look that doesn’t holler “yippee ki-yay.”  

The Retro Futurist Denim Shirt: Diesel D-Milly-SP

Diesel D-Milly-SP Denim Shirt worn by a model.

To see the future, we go to the past. This Diesel shirt presents a hard-edged version of the classic that’s more 1984 than 2001. The stone-washed denim and matte snap closures still give a nod to workwear, but its clean lines and asymmetrical chest pocket detailing lend an air of minimalism that seems more apropos to a desk job than a factory position. Pair this with a pair of minimalistic black trousers with a bit of sheen. 

The Happy Hippy: Mai-Tai Dye Cord Long-Sleeve Woven Shirt

Tommy Bahama Mai-Tai Dye Cord Long-Sleeve Woven Shirt on a white background.

We’re pushing the envelope here: Made from corduroy, this shirt isn’t technically one of our best denim shirts, but we like the effect of the indigo tie-dye so much that we think it merits an honorary inclusion. The relaxed silhouette, cotton fabric, top-stitched details, and metal buttons make for a shirt that will make you feel good any time you wear it. A great pair of trim-fit shorts are great with these, or stick with classic denim jeans. 

The Green Denim Shirt: Goodlife Overdyed Denim Snap Shirt

Goodlife Overdyed Denim Snap Shirt worn by a model.

If you’re more of a colorful personality, there’s no reason that denim has to be limited to indigo or black. Here, Goodlife presents a relaxed shirt with subtle details in a season-spanning sage hue for a fresh take on the classic style. Diagonal flap pockets and snap closures stay true to the shirt’s Western roots. It’ll look great with dark denim, but we’d love to see this shirt paired with ivory or white wide-wale corduroys. 

The Tan Denim Shirt: Hudson Long Sleeve Denim Shirt

Hudson Long Sleeve Denim Shirt in gold dust.

A solid denim shirt can also be a great stand-in for a jacket when layered over a T-shirt or tank top on those first cool autumn days. We like this tan version from Hudson in a sandy Gold Dust color that looks like it stepped out of a sepia-toned photograph from the old West. The soft-washed cotton denim will be great on its own, too, as the mercury drops further. Throw it on over a simple graphic T-shirt with rust or red-toned trousers. 

The Ombre Denim Shirt: Ksubi Snakebite Regular Fit Dip Dye Denim Button-Up Shirt

Ksubi Snakebite Regular Fit Dip Dye Denim Button-Up Shirt worn by a model.

Ksubi elevates the denim shirt to a fashion statement with a dip-dyed finish, covered placket, and graphic detailing on the shirt’s tail. The silhouette maintains workwear roots, while the dye techniques create an artistic statement. Keep it simple with black or gray stone-washed jeans or crisp white denim. 

Editors' Recommendations

John Jones
John Jones
Contributor
John Jones is a Jersey City, New Jersey-based writer who enjoys covering design in all its forms, from fashion to…
The best men’s dress boots for your 9-to-5 wardrobe (and beyond)
These are the best men's dress boots for you in 2023
10 Best Men's Dress Boots

It's about time to switch out your favorite loafers for a more durable pair of shoes, and we don't mean any old shoes. We suggest a pair of rugged yet sharp dress boots. The nine-to-five footwear's style and function allow for extra durability even in the face of the elements that will come your way. They're perfect for formal events but can also be paired with your favorite denim jeans for a nice casual look.

When looking for the right boot, you should consider the material and sole—the thicker the sole, the more durable for facing the elements. Below we rounded up some of the best dress boots from some of the best men's online clothing stores that won't make you sacrifice style for comfort.

Read more
The 7 best turtlenecks for men: Be effortlessly stylish with this classic look
Discover the perfect mix of casual and class with these turtlenecks for men

Nothing beats turtlenecks when it comes to looking stylish and staying warm. What's more versatile and more remarkable than a turtleneck? Not much at all. What served as a uniform for 19th-century polo players back in the day has become a modern menswear staple today. Whether you're planning on layering a lightweight version or rocking a sturdier knit on its own, turtlenecks add an element of sophistication no matter the outfit.

These sweaters from our favorite men's clothing brands are versatile enough to style with any of your favorite jeans or suits, keeping you protected from the elements. Moreover, they're a sleek and easy look to throw on during your video conference calls. We've made it easy by carefully hand-picking the best of turtlenecks in prints, stripes, solids, merinos, and cashmere to get you through this season.

Read more
Suit up with the best motorcycle boots for men in 2023
Sure, motorcycle boots are technically "safety wear." But that doesn't mean they can't look damn good too.
Best Men's Motorcycle Boots

More often than not, motorcycle boots are heavy, clunky, and purely functional without taking fashion into consideration. But these features are what ensure the safety of your feet, ankles, and calves should the worst things happen on two wheels. For the best motorcycle gear and chaps that can withstand scrapes, crashes, and everything in-between in any weather, stylish boots are usually regarded as secondary.

This doesn’t mean you can’t find a suitable pair of boots that are both fashionable and functional. Whether you’re a newbie rider shopping for your first motorcycle or a veteran cruiser with decades under your belt, here are our top picks for the best motorcycle boots for men in 2023.

Read more