No fabric elevates an outfit better than silk.
From the lustrous sheen to the beautiful drape, it’s a textile that exudes luxury. Not only is it effortlessly elegant, but it also boasts practical credentials, too. Contrary to what you may think from the molten aesthetic, it’s one of the toughest natural fibres on the planet that’s also breathable and wrinkle-resistant - so it’s an investment that goes far beyond aesthetics alone.
Opting for a silk shirt is the simplest way to inject a touch of the glossy goodness to your wardrobe - and, even better, it’s one of the easiest pieces to style. You can dress it up with tailored trousers, up the casual ante by layering over a tank top and jeans or even wear a full co-ordinating look head to toe.
If you’re searching for inspiration, look no further than Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Victoria Beckham who are both regularly spotted in swathes of the shimmering cloth. Known for their effortlessly sophisticated style, they both show that beautiful fabrics are all that’s needed to lift an outfit.
If you, like them, are leaning into this year’s ‘quiet luxury’ trend, you should set your sights on an understated design in black, neutral or navy. Or, perhaps you’re planning your holiday looks, which is the perfect excuse for choosing brights and prints. The good news is that the range on offer guarantees all of the bases are covered.
The only downside? Owing to the rarity of the fibre and the lengthy manufacturing process, it’s more expensive than pieces constructed with more common fabrics like cotton or wool. But, as usual, high-end high-street labels Cos and Arket are here to save the day, with wallet-friendly options that are still 100 per cent pure.
So, without further ado, level up your shirting collection with one of our carefully selected options below.
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Reformation Sky Relaxed Silk Top
Reformation’s collections are infused with LA cool-girl feel - it’s no wonder, then, that the HQ is based on the Golden Coast. This shirt is the embodiment of the label’s laid-back luxury with its relaxed fit and understated luxury. The abstract print only bolsters the easy-going vibe. Pair with cream denim to up the elegant ante.
Buy now £150.00, Reformation
With Nothing Underneath The Boyfriend: Silk Sapphire Blue
A boyfriend-fit shirt is always a winner but London-based shirt-expert With Nothing Underneath takes it to the next level. In a jewel-tone blue, it’s a rich navy that just feels luxuriously sumptuous - and the tonal buttons elevate it even further. The best part? It’s responsibly made using 100 per cent recycled silk.
Buy now £220.00, With Nothing Underneath
Arket Silk Shirt
Is there anything more elegant than a black silk shirt? Especially one that’s crafted using 100 per cent mulberry silk by Scandi label Arket. Lean into monochrome with the coordinating skirt. Work to the weekend, you’ll never want to take it off.
Buy now £89.00, Arket
Pucci Marmo printed silk-twill shirt
We’re sure you’re familiar with Pucci’s signature vibrant prints. Whether you spotted Jennifer Saunders wafting around in the label’s kaftan during the Absolutely Fabulous movie or Victoria Beckham’s love for the brand in the Noughties, it’s back with a vegeance in 2023 - and we want it all.
A holiday ready print, this shirt is a must-have for any glamorous trips you’ve got on the horizon. Patsy and Eddy would be approve.
Buy now £825.00, Net-A-Porter
L’Agence Silk Dani Shirt
Fusing an effortless Cali aesthetic with an effortlessly chic Parisian nonchalance, as soon as you slip into one of Asceno’s expertly crafted silk shirts you’ll feel both elegant and relaxed.
A textile that flows like liquid, its cropped sleeves and emerald green hue are the sophisticated design details that will make you feel like you’ve made an effort - with none required.
Buy now £345.00, Harrods
Delos Marius shibori-dyed silk shirt
For silky resortwear, it’s Delos that should be on your radar. Founded in 2021, it’s new to the scene but has already recieved the seal of approval from Matches - so we’re expecting big things from the brand.
Using ancient techniches and timeless silhouettes, the label fuses techniques from the East and West for collections the exude opulence - as is proven by this shirt. Now all you need is the matching shorts.
Buy now £425.00, Matches
Gucci GG-button silk-crepe shirt
This Gucci shirt may be a massive flex, but it’s one that’s well worth making. Featuring one of the brand’s signature prints all-over, it’s luxury through and through. Whether you wear it tucked into denim or loose over a tank and shorts, it’s an investment that you won’t regret - and it will live in your wardrobe for years to come.
Buy now £1350.00, Matches
Asceno Paris Dust Blue Stripe Printed Silk Oversized Pyjama Shirt
Although this striped design is pitched as a pyjama shirt by London-based brand Asceno, it’s one we’ll be wearing in the outside world, too - and it’ll be the comfiest item in your wardrobe. We won’t tell if you don’t.
Buy now £245.00, Asceno
La DoubleJ Boy Shirt Ortensia Bordeaux in Twill Silk
La Double J’s origin story is different from most. It began as a shoppable magazine that sold vintage clothing and jewellery, but has evolved to create ready-to-wear collections that are all imbued with the same sense of old-world charm - from the eclectic prints to the luxurious fabrics. We’re in love with this rich ortensia print which can be paired with a matching skirt or palazzo pants.
Buy now £470.00, 24s
Cos Printed Silk Shirt
A vaycay essential, Cos’ versatile tropical-inspired silk shirt can be easily dressed up or down depending on the vibe. Featuring side slits and an inverted back pleat, it’s a voluminous fit that’s both beach and bar-ready.
Buy now £135.00, Cos
