STYLE. GROOMING. INSPIRATION. ADVICE.
STYLE AND CULTURE
IT'S SHIRT SEASON – HERE'S WHAT THE COOL GUYS ARE WEARING
By Flo Bellinger, 10 November 2025
Everyone knows it’s coat season, but this autumn/winter is as much about a good shirt as it is a cosy jacket. We’re seeing it everywhere – all the cool guys are choosing a button-up statement or a plaid overshirt over a basic tee. And for good reason – it promises endless styling opportunities and can instantly make you look put-together.
Picture: Getty
Our Menswear Buyer Katie Ellis confirms it: ‘We’re seeing lots of creative takes on the shirt as we head into winter. There’s a variety of textures and silhouettes to play with, whether they're oversized and casual or smart and sleek.’ If you fancy injecting some fresh energy into your AW25 outfits, keep scrolling for the only shirts you need in your roster. These are sure to trigger compliments (thank us later).
#1: THE OVERSHIRT
Picture: ASOS
The overshirt is the most timely of the shirts on this list. Why? Because it’s warm. But practicality shouldn’t impede style. According to Katie, a good overshirt will not only elevate the temperature of your ensemble, but it’ll also elevate it full stop. ‘Heavyweight overshirts with texture are great for layering and creating a plush premium look.’ The thicker the fabric the sturdier the shape, and opting for boxy fits means your shirt can double up as a jacket on milder days. The overshirt also wins major brownie points for its versatility – thin enough to slip under a coat and thick enough to wear alone for a sunny outing.
GET THE LOOK:
Threadbare Brushed button up shacket in black, £50
Jack & Jones brushed overshirt in khaki, £30
Bershka Boxy flannel overshirt in beige, £29.99
ASOS COLLECTIVE wool blend overshirt in brown, £50
#2: THE CHECKERED SHIRT
Picture: ASOS
Check, tartan, plaid (whatever you want to call it) – this heritage print is everywhere right now. Wearing it on a shirt is a great way to add some seasonal interest to your classic pieces, whether it’s thicker finishes or lightweight cotton. ‘Key colours for the season include warm browns and rusts, as well as rich greens and burgundy,’ says Katie. If you’re more of a minimalist, checkered patterns are a handy way to weave in one of these shades without overpowering a look. We’re also loving wool plaid shirts during these colder months. They’ll keep you cosy and give off an air of old-school luxury at the same time.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN wool look shirt in brown check, £35
ASOS DESIGN oversized wool look check shirt in brown, £35
Jack & Jones check shirt in black, £30
Barbour Chapter tailored check overshirt in midnight oak tartan, £139
#3: THE GOING OUT SHIRT
Picture: ASOS
At some point we all must brave the evening chill and head out to some kind of social gathering. The days between now and New Year's Day are likely jam-packed with plans, so it’s good to have a few sartorial irons in the fire. Katie has some tips: ‘Embroidery and badging are key to elevating looks, and for parties we’re loving satin and velvets. They bring a unique and luxe vibe.’ Lace is also enjoying a wintry renaissance, so don’t be afraid to incorporate these textural details into your shirting. There’s no need to go all out with the frills and satin, but updating your go-to style with a new finish is sure to tip your evening look into 'best-dressed' territory.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN relaxed fit open neck satin shirt in beige, £28
Sister Jane velvet floral shirt in black, £89
Topman crop fit textured button through jersey shirt with floral embroidery, £38
Topman relaxed crochet revere polo with floral embroidery, £38
#4: THE RUGBY SHIRT
Picture: ASOS
Another shirt style enjoying the limelight of late? The rugby shirt. This casual silhouette is a go-to for almost every situation: running to the shop for that forgotten pint of milk; a first date; drinks with your mates – the list goes on (though we’d perhaps steer clear for formal occasions). The collar detail gives old-school varsity vibes, and the colourways are perfect for that heritage feel. If you fancy something more modern, opting for a colour-drenched style brings the classic silhouette onto avant-garde terrain. We love this moss green cord piece from ASOS DESIGN – perfect for balancing the smart/casual demands of the season.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN boxy oversized cord rugby shirt in dark green, £30
Levi's union tonal logo stripe rugby polo in navy, £60
Polo Ralph Lauren icon logo block stripe rugby polo classic oversized fit, £175
Topman oversized fit striped rugby polo in dark green, £38