Step 1: Not all slim fit shirts are created equal
This is one of the most difficult parts of buying a slim fitting shirt that you won't have to have tailored, the actual way a shirt fits you is going to vary widely between brands. My best advice is to try a whole variety of different brands until you find one that fits you perfectly. I personally love the Express 1MX Fitted Shirt, they are not too expensive and the variety in the past few years has expanded dramatically. H&M is another great place for a cheap slim fit shirt, however if you want something that will last a little longer you can find slim shirts from Boss, Banana Republic, Gucci, Ralph Lauren and more. See how well this shirt fits below and the slim look it gives.
Step 2: "It feels too tight" - Get over it
When you start shopping for a slim fit shirt, it's possible that you are going to be uncomfortable in it at first. It will feel too tight around the arms, you might feel like your love handles are showing or maybe even that your shoulders feel constrained. Chances are you have been wearing shirts that are too big for you in the first place your whole life, so it will take some time to get used to it. If you don't think you can handle it, take a look at the picture below between a slim fit shirt and a standard puffed out shirt. Who do you want to look like?
Step 3: Keep your slim shirt fitting perfectly
Nothing will kill how much you love a slim fit shirt like having it shrink up on you if you wash it incorrectly. Trust me, you will go from admiring your new look to wondering how you gained 10 pounds overnight when a slim fit shirt shrinks up. Wash white and light colors in a hot wash, dark shirts should be in cold water. I recommend hang drying your shirts if at all possible but understandably this isn't possible for some households. If you have to use the dryer, use it to get most of the moisture out of the shirt and then iron the shirt immediately. You will get remove the rest of the moisture and any wrinkles this way.
I can't count how many guys I see that ruin a great look by wearing a dress shirt that is way too big for them. By taking some time to examine how a shirt fits you and knowing what to look for you will make a big impact on your wardrobe. Once again, I really recommend this article from GQ. It has a lot of great looks and should give you an idea on where to start with picking a slim fit shirt
Thanks for reading. As always, be dapper.
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