As spring rolls in, men begin to swap their winter wardrobes for lighter, warmer styles. With the change of seasons comes the emergence of key shirts that become essential to the season’s fashion, and one shirt that consistently stands the test of time is the camp collar shirt. Recently, while rewatching the classic James Bond film Thunderball for the 20th time, the protagonist’s striking blue, short-sleeved button-up shirt with a wide collar caught my attention. This led to a deeper dive into the camp collar shirt, also known as the cabana, cabin, or camp shirt, which is set to be a staple in men’s spring fashion for 2025.
Once the camp collar entered my mind, I started noticing its presence everywhere—from Tony Soprano’s wardrobe in The Sopranos to Sheriff Jim Hopper’s shirts in Stranger Things. These shirts have also made appearances in the wardrobes of iconic figures such as Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I., Patrick Swayze in Dirty Dancing and Road House, and even James Dean and Marlon Brando in the early days of Hollywood. It’s clear that this classic style has made a lasting impact. Now, as spring approaches, it’s impossible to think of a better addition to men’s wardrobes.
The appeal of the camp collar shirt seems to transcend generations. It’s a classic summer style that offers men a great alternative to the basic T-shirt, allowing for a more interesting and distinctive look. As Beauchamp, a style expert, points out, the camp collar shirt remains casual yet more elevated than a traditional point collar shirt. It’s also the perfect canvas for experimenting with bold prints and colors, which makes it a great choice for the warmer months.
When selecting a quality camp collar shirt, Beauchamp recommends prioritizing natural fabrics such as Tencel, Eco Vero, or linen. These materials offer superior breathability and a soft, comfortable feel, making them perfect for hot summer days. Synthetic fabrics, while commonly used to achieve the camp collar look, do not offer the same level of comfort and style as their natural counterparts. According to Beauchamp, choosing the right fabric is crucial for achieving a polished look while maintaining comfort in warmer weather.
As with any stylish garment, the camp collar shirt has specific guidelines for how it should be worn. These shirts are best suited for more relaxed, casual occasions. They aren’t designed for formal settings like office wear, where a sport coat or tucked-in chinos would be appropriate. Instead, they shine at laid-back events such as a backyard barbecue, a beach day, or a vacation look. Beauchamp suggests wearing them open over a tank top and pairing them with looser pants or shorts to create a resort-inspired look—think The White Lotus style. This combination provides a relaxed yet stylish vibe that’s perfect for the warmer months.
Once you start thinking about the camp collar shirt, you’ll begin to notice it everywhere. It’s a trend that’s impossible to ignore, and it’s definitely worth considering as a key piece in your spring and summer wardrobe. While it might not make you look exactly like Sean Connery’s James Bond, it’s a sure way to elevate your warm-weather style and become the most stylish person in your friend group.
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