The Best Short-Sleeve Button-Up Shirts for Men, Tested by Style Editors

I love Buck Mason’s striped camp-collar shirt because it feels more elevated than your standard short-sleeve button down. And if you're not familiar, a camp collar, (sometimes called a resort collar) is that open, notch-style collar that lies flat instead of standing up like a traditional dress shirt. It reads more vacation energy, less buttoned-up structure, while still looking sharp.

Rather than having a dull matte finish, this shirt is made with a lightweight washed cotton that leans more lived-in but still very fresh. It’s got a single chest pocket that keeps things classic, and the fit follows suit—easy through the body, but a touch more tailored in the arms than most camp-collar styles, so you don’t get that boxy, oversized sleeve situation.

The fabric is seriously light, too. I’ve worn it on sweaty commutes to the office and didn’t get that clingy, damp T-shirt effect. It somehow stays airy and comfortable even when the temps spike. And if you’re into a little variety, it comes in a handful of stripe patterns, all in that same understated, slightly vintage lane.

Most short-sleeve buttons skew casual, but this one from Cos cleans up for dressier occasions. The premium brand understands proportions, so it’s slightly boxy, but still tailored enough that it never looks too oversized. It’s structured with a pointed collar and a box pleat in the back for a classic feel. The cut is roomy through the body and falls a few inches past the waist, which works especially well on average-height guys (around 5 '10”) who want that easy straight hang without it feeling swallowed by fabric. If you’re on the shorter side, though, it’s worth considering a quick trip to the tailor.

It’s made with a crisp cotton that holds its shape, keeping that sharp, just-pressed look even after a full day of sitting at my desk. I found it's one of the few short sleeves I didn’t find myself constantly tugging or adjusting. Fit-wise, it’s relaxed through the body with clean lines and architectural drape. It didn’t cling when I was burning up in 80-degree weather, but it also doesn't billow—ideal if you’ve got broad shoulders or a full torso and want structure without squeeze. Styling is simple: trousers, loafers, and maybe a belt if the shirt stops too low. It’s perfect for a rooftop brunch or summer garden party.

Bonobos’ lightweight chambray shirt offers a tailored-but-easy fit that splits the difference between polished and relaxed. Chambray has that denim-meets-dress shirt vibe that works in both casual or semi-dressy settings. I’ve worn mine to a resort dinner as well as a laid-back brunch in the city. The fabric is soft, breathable like linen, and lighter than denim, with that subtle texture that gives your outfit character. If chambray isn’t your thing, this shirt is available in seersucker, linen, and other cool patterns.

It’s one of those shirts that looks slightly wrinkled—which makes it my grab-and-go favorite. The fit is more tailored than the others on this list, but not tight. Bonobos does that “trim but forgiving” thing well, so it works especially nicely on average builds or guys who want a little shape without going into slim-fit territory. If you’re broader up top, you might size up for a more relaxed feel. When it comes to styling, you can wear it like a casual button-up with chinos, or dress it down with shorts.

Abercombie’s breezy, drapey camp-collar shirt has that resort-ready look, which is perfect for your next vacation. The cotton blend has striped threading details that add style points, so it feels more elevated than a regular casual button-up. It’s soft, airy, and hangs off the body in that flowy, swishy way. I’m five foot eight, and the fit is cut roomy with a shorter hem, falling at my waist.

You can wear it untucked without looking like you borrowed your dad’s shirt, but I would recommend letting it fall. It works especially well on slimmer to average builds, but the flowy cut also makes it forgiving if you’ve just finished a full meal. Styling-wise, it’s best to pair with linen shorts, drawstring pants, maybe even swim trunks. Leave a couple buttons undone and call it a day.

Gap’s denim short-sleeve delivers a roomy fit that balances structure and comfort. Denim short sleeves can be too stiff or too “mechanic off-duty”, but Gap’s version avoids all of that. The denim here is lighter than you’d expect, almost chambray-adjacent, with that broken-in softness right out of the gate. You still get texture and structure, but without the weight or rigidity of traditional denim. After a few wears, it molds to your body in a way that feels lived-in like your favorite tee.

Similar to Cos’ classic button up, this fit has more room through the chest and sleeves. That makes it especially good for bigger builds or guys with thicker arms—it doesn’t pinch or pull. On slimmer frames, it’s oversized in a cool, casual way. I wouldn’t try wearing this option to a fancy dinner, but it can shine at a beer hall or baseball game. Throw it on with black jeans, white tees, even chinos. It’s basically a substitute for your go-to overshirt, just summer-ified.