Patterned shirts are a bit more difficult to match with ties. These shirts are more appropriate for lower level office jobs, partying, or walking around outside.
If you are planning on wearing a patterned tie, wear a solid color shirt. When ties and shirts are both patterned, the outfit can become gaudy and distracting.
Collar of your shirt:
The two major types of collars are point (standard) and spread collars. Each of these collars creates a different effect, and are designed for different shaped bodies.
A standard point collar is the most common type of collar (95%) where the collar edges point downward at a 60 degree angle, and there is little space between the section where the collar meets. Standard collars are designed to help elongate a face that is more rounded, drawing the viewer's eyes downward.
A spread collar is a bit more modern and is considered by some to be youthful and lively. The points of the collar have been "cut away," the collars point downward at 90 degree angles, and there is more space between the section where the collar meets. This collar keeps the viewer's eyes on the face of the person wearing the shirt. Persons with longer faces can use this collar to create the effect of having a more rounded face.
Fit of the shirt
The three major types of fits for dress shirts are slim, athletic, and broad (traditional). Each of these different fits are meant for people with different body shapes, sizes, and preferences.
A slim fit or tailored fit dress shirt is slightly tighter around the chest and sides. There is almost no excess fabric around the back and sides. This type of fit is great for persons who are skinny, or for those who are going for a more modern look.
Athletic cut shirts have a full chest (traditional amount of fabric) but are tapered at the waist. People who work out tend to have problems finding shirts that allow room for their more muscular chest and arms. Athletic fit shirts give you that room, while also lacking much of the excess fabric in traditional fit shirts.
Broad fit shirts have the traditional amount of fabric which tends to hang out after you have tucked your shirt in. These shirts give the person more breathing room, and make it easier to walk/move around. Often, people who are bigger in size tend to find these shirts to their liking.
Fabric of the shirt :
Cotton or linen are the most common types of fabrics used for shirts. Each is used for different purposes and create very different feelings against your skin.
Linen is a very strong fiber, can absorb liquid at a rate of 20%, and allow for air to move easily. Linen is crisper than cotton, and becomes softer through the handling of the fabric. Because linen shirts retain heat, they are more appropriate for the fall and winter months. These shirts are used for more informal settings such as a party, or going outside.
Cotton is a strong fiber as well, with a liquid absorbency rate of 25%, and is very soft. These can be used in all seasons, and are more appropriate for formal settings such as a place of business.