Why a camp collar shirt is the epitome of casual summer style
Inherently cool and endlessly chic, camp collar shirts are no longer just for mobsters and bowlers
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Forget what you think you know about the camp collar shirt. Once the preserve of American bowling teams and particularly flamboyant organised crime bosses, over the past few years this retro style has undergone a renaissance, becoming a summer staple of well-dressed men across the globe. First introduced as a holiday alternative to formal tailored shirts in the 1950s and named for their flat camp – or Cuban – collars, today they retain their laidback weekend-ready appeal.
Far from Sopranos cosplay, however, modern versions are cut in flattering, boxier fits. And while we’re unashamed fans of campy camp collars with Hawaiian-inspired floral prints and bold bowling stripes, designers are now making them in options to suit every taste and style.
Excellent for throwing over a pair of swim shorts at a European beach club, a camp collar shirt will also work wonders tucked into trousers for a miraculously sunny day at one of the UK’s beautiful beaches or – if you’re feeling adventurous – with a linen suit for a bold wedding guest look. However you style them, you need one (or a few) in your arsenal.
From Loewe’s flamboyant designs and CDLP’s minimal Scandi-chic creations to timeless classics from Polo Ralph Lauren, read on for our pick of the best camp collar shirts.
CDLP Camp collar shirt
Swedish brand CDLP draws on its Scandinavian heritage for its minimal, luxurious and uber-cool menswear. Case in point, this seemingly simple camp collar shirt made in a linen and Tencel Lyocell-blend and cut for a relaxed yet tailored finish. A versatile hazel beige shade, wear with your favourite Bermuda shorts for a laidback look, or tailored trousers for the smarter occasions.
Orlebar Brown Hibbert Rills camp collar shirt
Lean on Orlebar Brown’s sophisticated approach to resortwear for everything from al fresco brunches in the capital to cocktails by the pool in the Maldives. Emblazoned with an intricate circle print, pair with the matching swim shorts or tailored trousers.
Arrels Barcelona x Álvaro Picardo striped camp collar shirt
Sailing away to the Mediterranean this summer? Dress the part in this nautical-inspired shirt from Arrels Barcelona, in collaboration with Spanish artisan Álvaro Picardo. A blue and white striped design, pair with chinos and boat shoes on board and layer over a T-shirt and linen trousers when back at home.
Frescobol Carioca Angelo camp collar linen shirt
Frescobol Carioca’s camp collar shirt is sure to be a summertime favourite. A loose and breathable fit, cut from 100 per cent linen, it nails cool, smart casual dressing that pairs perfectly with swim shorts and chinos alike. And we can’t get enough of the gorgeous apple green colour.
Celine Homme camp colar voile shirt
Celine Homme’s camp collar shirt plays on classic ’50s bowling styles. Cut for a boxy fit, its lightweight fabric and monochrome print add a sporty edge without straying into pastiche. Wear yours buttoned up or open with a T-shirt.
Polo Ralph Lauren camp collar linen shirt
Synonymous with preppy, timeless styles, we can’t get enough of Polo Ralph Lauren’s simple yet styish pieces that are wardrobe must-haves all year round. Take, for example, this Newport navy hued camp collar shirt with its clean cut and breezy linen fabrication. Nonchalant and fabulously chic.
Percival x Warren drape cuban shirt
Hackney-based Percival’s camp collar shirts have been favoured by menswear mavens including Andrew Garfield, Chris Pine and Paul Mescal. Fresh from the brand’s SS25 collection, this limited edition cuban shirt created in collaboration with LA-base stylist Warren Alfie Baker, embodies efforltessly cool vintage Americana style. Mint green in a relaxed fit, wear with shorts, chinos, denim and even your favourite summer suit.
Loewe + Paula's Ibiza camp collar Terry shirt
One to push the boat out with wacky and flamboyant patterns? Loewe’s ongoing capsule collection with Paula’s Ibiza features unique and colourful patterns and shades, evoking the fun and glamorous spirit of the Balearic Islands. This shirt, made from a jacquard knit and rendered in a quirky geometric pattern, is certainly one to make a statement in, right from the pool to the bar.
Story Mfg. PA checked shirt
Keen on embracing laidback out-of-office vibes without going overboard? Invest in a long-sleeved camp collar shirt. This checked shirt from Story Mfg. with patchwork-effect detailing is sure to be a favourite. Throw over a plain crewneck T-shirt with rolled-back sleeves to nail smart casual.
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