Which Work Shirt Should You Wear for Your Job?
With Hollands Workwear, you always get great choice. And with great choice comes great power. And with great power comes great responsibility.
So when it comes to your work shirts, that responsibility means one thing: getting the best one for your job.
But with so many options out there, how do you decide which work shirt is right for you? Should you go for short or long sleeves? Lightweight t-shirts or fleece-lined layers? A classic button-down or a smart polo?
In this guide, we’re here to help you figure it out. We’ll break down the different types of workwear shirts, explain what to look for, and give you trade-specific tips to make choosing easier. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to wear for the job ahead.
What are the Different Types of Work Shirts?
Let’s start by breaking down the different types of shirts you’ll come across. Each one has its place depending on the job you’re doing and the conditions you’re working in.
Polo Shirts
Polo shirts have come a long way in recent years. They’re no longer just for the office crowd, they are a key part of workwear.
The best thing about this style of shirt is that it's great for when you’re meeting clients or need a professional appearance, like electricians, plumbers, or landscapers. You still get the comfort of a soft, breathable shirt, but the collar adds that touch of smartness.
Work T-shirts
T-shirts are the backbone of many work wardrobes. Lightweight, versatile, and easy to layer, they’re ideal for anyone working in active trades like warehousing, delivery driving, or construction.
The key is to look for t-shirts designed specifically for work. You’ll want something durable that can handle the odd scuff or spill, and quick-dry fabrics are a bonus if you tend to work in warm environments.
Button-down Shirts
When professionalism matters, a button-down shirt is a solid choice. These shirts offer a smart look but are still tough enough to handle manual work.
Opt for button-downs with reinforced stitching, breathable materials, and extra features like chest pockets. Some styles come with roll-up sleeve tabs, making them versatile for both office and on-site tasks.
Surveyors, site managers, or roles where you’re splitting time between desk work and the field will usually go for this style of shirt, as well as farmers who know you can't beat a classic tattersall shirt!
Fleece Lined Shirts
If you work outdoors, it’s a no brainer to have a fleece lined shirt as part of your line-up.
We’ve talked about the massive benefits of this type of work shirt previously (you can view that blog post here) but essentially it boils down to one key advantage: it keeps you warm.
You get all the comfy warmth of a fleece but as a shirt. This means you can leave it open or have it buttoned up over a t-shirt or base layer. It usually comes in a checked style, so easy to wear with almost every kind of work trousers.
Baselayers
Lastly, it’s worth stocking up on some baselayers, or thermals as you might know them as.
Long or short sleeves, they get worn under your main shirt to add extra warmth in the colder months. A good baselayer traps heat while keeping sweat away from your skin, so it is ideal for anyone working in freezing or unpredictable conditions.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Work Shirt
Once you know the type of shirt you need, it’s time to think about the details. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Short or Long Sleeves?
This decision often depends on your trade and the season.
- Short sleeves: Ideal for warmer weather or jobs requiring lots of movement. They keep you cool and reduce the chance of snagging on tools or machinery.
- Long sleeves: Better for colder weather or when extra protection is needed, whether it’s from the sun, sparks, or abrasions.
If you’re unsure, consider shirts with roll-up sleeve tabs for year-round versatility.
Collar or No Collar?
Collared shirts, like polos and button-downs, give you a more professional appearance and can offer added sun protection for your neck. They’re great for customer-facing roles or trades where presentation matters.
Collarless options, like t-shirts, are more casual and often better suited to physical, hands-on work.
Patterned or Plain?
While patterned shirts like checks or plaids add a bit of personality, plain shirts are often more versatile and easier to pair with other workwear. Your colour choices will usually stick to neutral colours like navy or black, but you could go for something a bit brighter, like a burgundy or yellow.
Think about whether your trade has any uniform requirements or if you simply prefer a specific look based on your personal style.
Layering Potential
If your work involves fluctuating temperatures, layering is essential, so it's worth bearing in mind how the shirt will sit under other garments.
A fleece-lined shirt works as a standalone option in autumn but can easily be paired with a baselayer and waterproof jacket for colder conditions. T-shirts and polos also make excellent base layers under jumpers or coats.
Our Trade-Specific Tips
Different trades come with different demands, so matching your work shirt to the type of tasks you do is where you can tick the boxes you need to. Here are a few trade-specific recommendations, along with some popular choices to help point you in the right direction.
- Construction and Outdoor Work: Fleece-lined shirts, baselayers, and t-shirts with durability and warmth.
- Warehousing and Logistics: Breathable t-shirts or polos for active tasks.
- Customer-Facing Roles: Polos or button-downs for a professional but practical look.
- Cold-Weather Trades: Layered baselayers and fleece-lined shirts will do the trick.
Keen to stock up your wardrobe? These shirts are just a few from our wide range that we'd suggest starting with:
- Champion Kinross Padded Fleece Lumberjack Shirt: The perfect shirt for outdoor workers in the winter, with a choice of colours to pick from.
- Caterpillar Coolmax Long Sleeve Tee: If you need a long sleeve work shirt that's made with breathable fabrics, this one from CAT is an easy choice.
- TuffStuff Elite T-Shirt: The quality fabrics of this workwear t-shirt make it a great fit shirt that goes with pretty much anything.
- Caterpillar Essentials Polo Shirt: You get a classic design here, plus durable materials and practical features - a polo shirt made for hard work.
- Fort Hyde Shirt: The smart check pattern and button-down collar helps turn this casual shirt into a more formal shirt that's great for a professional appearance.
Workwear Shirt Care and Maintenance
A good work shirt is an investment, so keeping it in top condition is key:
- Machine Washable: Look for shirts made with high-quality materials that can handle regular washing without shrinking or losing shape.
- Quick Drying: Shirts that dry quickly save time, especially if you’re working back-to-back shifts.
- Stain Resistance: Fabrics designed to repel stains are ideal for messy jobs.
Always check the care label for washing instructions, especially for fleece-lined or technical fabrics.
Summary
Choosing the right work shirt might not seem like a big decision - until you’re staring at your wardrobe in the morning, wishing you’d picked better.
At Hollands Workwear, we understand how important reliable, comfortable workwear is. That’s why we’ve brought together shirts designed for real trades, real people, and real workdays. Now it’s over to you - think about what you need, the tasks ahead, and what’s going to keep you comfortable, confident, and ready to go.
Our full collection of work shirts for men and women has a range of styles to suit all, from smart shirts to your everyday staples. Take a look today and find the workwear shirt that makes every shift just that little bit easier.
About the Author
Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise to the world of workwear. With an extensive background in warehousing and outdoor work, he possesses an intricate understanding of the high-quality, functional garments needed for the demands of the workplace. Using his hands-on experience and knowledge gained, he continues to contribute valuable insights that resonate with professionals seeking superior workwear across various industries.
