If you’re one of those style-savvy guys who are into all things stylish and believe in keeping a wardrobe that’s ready for any occasion, then you absolutely need to make room for a top-shelf black shirt or two. I’m talking about the classic button-down or a sleek polo, and seriously, who doesn’t have one of these in their collection, right? A black button-down is like a style staple that every guy should have hanging in his closet, and the same goes for a black polo. This piece is all about rocking those black shirts, whether it’s the button-down or the polo, and creating killer black shirts outfits using the stuff you’ve already got in your wardrobe. Whether you’re going for a formal vibe or keeping it casual, a black shirt is your go-to. So, if you’ve got a crisp black polo or a button-down and you’re on the lookout for some style inspo, you’re in the right spot. Before we dive into our gallery of black shirt outfits, let’s quickly check out this cheat sheet for nailing the style game with your black shirts.

How to style a black shirt? A quick style cheat sheet:

Like any other shirt, a black polo or button-down should be of the right fit, the right fit re-enforces the slimming effect of the color black. When using a black shirt as the topmost layer, the choice of pants becomes all the more important. 

What to wear with a black shirt?

When it comes to styling a black shirt, the possibilities are as versatile as the shirt itself. Whether you’re rocking a black button-down or a classic polo, choosing the right pants is key. For a formal look, consider pairing your black shirt with shades of gray, khaki, or brown pants. These earthy tones create a sophisticated and polished ensemble. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, patterned or pinstriped pants can work wonders, especially if they include black linings or shades of black. When it comes to denim, blue, gray, and white jeans make perfect companions for a black shirt, offering a stylish and casual vibe. While choosing the perfect blazer, suit jacket, or any other top layer or a layered look, stick to black or shades of gray to maintain a cohesive and polished appearance. Steer clear of overly flashy or vibrant colors, as they may clash with the solemnity of black. To complete your look, accessorize thoughtfully with items like a black belt, a wristwatch, sunglasses, and a necktie featuring patterns that either contrast or complement the black shirt, ensuring a well-coordinated and sharp appearance.

Shoes to try with a black shirt:

Black is the king when it comes to choosing footwear color with a black shirt outfit. Opt for black formal shoes, loafers, or Chelsea boots with a black shirt outfit, alternatively, you can choose kicks that match the color of your pants. Wear white sneakers when you are trying a pair of white jeans and think of matching your khakis or brown pants with your buff or brown shoes. That said, It’s always on the table to go by the classic rule of opting for the shoes that match your belt, in case you wear one.

Styling a black shirt, 5 key takeaways.

This is how superstars like Zac Efron, Idris Elba, and Chris Hemsworth rock a black shirt!

1. Perfect Fit Matters: Ensure your black shirt flatters your silhouette. If it doesn’t, don’t shy away from alterations and tailoring to achieve that ideal fit.
2. Mind Your Pairings: Team up your black shirt with the right bottoms and layer it thoughtfully. Avoid color clashes to maintain a cohesive and stylish look.
3. No Lone Rangers Allowed: Your black shirt shouldn’t stand alone in your outfit. Introduce other black elements like a belt, shoes, jacket, or headgear for a well-coordinated ensemble. If black extras aren’t your thing, let sunglasses add that extra flair!
4. Pants Palette: When in doubt about pant colors, stick to the classics – black, gray, khaki, or white. This timeless palette ensures you can never go wrong with your bottom-half choices.
5. Goldilocks Fit Principle: Keep it moderate with the fit of your pants. Avoid extremes like super-skinny or ultra-baggy flares, unless you’re aiming to be the center of attention. Embrace the Goldilocks principle – not too tight, not too loose – because effortless style is the goal.

45 outfits with black shirts for guys.

Styling a black shirt formally:

Integrating a black shirt, be it a polished polo or a classic button-down, into your wardrobe for formal or smart casual occasions is a breeze, especially when opting for a tie-free look. Elevate your ensemble by pairing the black shirt with top-notch black shoes – not a rule of thumb, but the combination effortlessly exudes a stylish charm that complements the shirt. For a truly striking look, slip on your black shirt beneath a crisp white suit; the contrast creates a stunning ensemble that’s both sophisticated and bold. When working with separates, consider donning a charcoal suit jacket paired with matching trousers and ties for a sharp and cohesive appearance that’s sure to make a statement. To spark your style imagination, take a glance at these iconic black shirt outfits that showcase the versatility and timeless appeal of this wardrobe essential.

With slacks.

A black shirt truly shines when incorporated into a smart casual or business casual ensemble. Elevate the look by pairing it with a sharp pair of slacks, and bring it all together by stepping into your finest formal shoes, preferably in sleek black. This combination exudes a polished and sophisticated vibe that’s perfect for a range of semi-formal occasions.

With blue jeans:

A black shirt works perfectly with blue jeans to create a smart casual look, you have to use a shirt that fits you well and tuck it in to smarten up the jeaned look.

Black shirts outfits with chinos, cargo pants, and other casual pants.

A pair of slim-fit chinos solid or plaid is an option worth considering, these outfits will show you how good you can look in these black shirt outfits. A black shirt with camo or cargo pants in solid earthy tones will work for everyone.

Black shirt outfits with white pants.

A black shirt can be paired with white pants or even white jeans for an on-trend smart casual look. A casual black shirt can be worn unbuttoned and layered over a tee with white jeans or white shorts.

All-black outfits.

If a monochrome total-black look floats your boat then you can use a black shirt in all sorts of all-black outfits catering to every occasion, season, and mood.

The layered look with a black shirt.

You can layer a black shirt under any casual jacket and pair it with the bottoms of your choice. It’s better to opt for jackets in dark colors and earthy tones to look sharp in your black shirts.

Aesthetic black shirt outfits with shorts.

Now if you want to let your black shirt shine with summery sprezzatura vibes use it with shorts, tucked in, untucked, buttoned up, or unbuttoned. If you choose the right fit and the right ingredients you win.

The casual untucked look.

The untucked casual look with a black shirt is a must-try if you are a black shirt aficionado. You can let your black shirt outfits exude nonchalance by donning it untucked with your most lived-in bottoms.

With khakis.

A black shirt and khakis are made for each other, you can’t possibly go wrong with a well-fitted black shirt paired with a slim-fit pair of khaki pants. This link will lead you to more khaki pants outfits for your interest.

Black polo shirt outfit ideas for guys

Every modern guy’s got to have a black polo shirt in his arsenal. It’s a no-brainer because it’s one of those shirts that’s just a breeze to style. That’s why the black polo shirt is riding the popularity wave and is basically a must-have. Slip it on with any pair of pants – seriously, any will do. All you need to seal the deal is a pair of black shoes and a slick black leather belt, if belts are your thing. Boom, you’ve nailed the iconic black polo shirt look. Now, if black shoes or a black belt aren’t on the agenda that day, no problemo. Just throw in a pair of sunglasses, and ta-da – you’ve cooked up a foolproof outfit recipe, and the stylish black polo shirt is stealing the spotlight. Easy peasy, right? Here are some black polo outfits to let spark your stylish imagination, let’s have a look.

FAQs

What color pants go with a black shirt?

There can be nothing darker than black, so you can’t go with darker pants when wearing a black polo shirt. Opt for pants in lighter hues, start with khakis or white pants, if they happen to be your cup of tea. Khaki shades look great with a black shirt, the same can be said about lighter hues of grey. Avoid darker shades of navy, grey, and red, instead, go for a total-black look. Bottom line, lighter hues of grey, khaki, and brown are your best bet when creating stylish black polo shirt combos.

What color do jeans go best with a black shirt?

Blue jeans look way better than black jeans with a black polo shirt. Whatever the shade or fade of blue jeans, it’s going to work with a black polo. Grey jeans, if you happen to have a pair, are the second-best choice for you to team with a black polo shirt. A pair of black jeans, even though most people can pull this monochrome look off, but it’s not for everyone. If you are a fan of all-black outfits then go for a pair of black jeans, otherwise, stick with blue or grey, this is going to be much more effortless and stylish.

Does a black polo shirt go with blue pants?

A black polo shirt goes well with a pair of blue jeans and blue pants for that matter. Blue jeans will work with a black polo no matter what the shade. But the same can’t be said about blue pants, because darker shades of blue or navy will be tough to style with a black polo shirt. Light shades of blue will work best with a black shirt.

Can you wear a black polo with brown shoes?

Naturally, you should be pairing a black pair of shoes with a black polo, brown shoes should only be used when you are using a belt in similar shades and texture or when you are using pants in earthy tones. Otherwise, stick with black shoes when you are rocking a crisp black polo shirt up top. 

Can you wear a black polo with khaki pants?

Absolutely yes, khaki pants and chinos are made for a black shirt. For a black polo shirt, khakis are the best choice to create a stylish relaxed smart casual look. You can tuck in your polo shirt, and introduce a black leather belt and a pair of black leather shoes to nail this classic black polo shirt outfit, a look that works for everyone. 

Can you wear a black polo shirt with blue shorts:

Wearing blue shorts with a black polo shirt? You should opt for this combo only if you are planning to use blue denim shorts. Dark blue or navy shorts with a black polo shirt should be avoided because they will look near monochrome. A monochrome look with shorts is a tricky area and this look doesn’t work for all men. Opt for light blue faded denim shorts with a black polo for an effortlessly cool look.