Dappered

Affordable Men's Style

  • Don’t Miss Anything
  • Start Here
  • Essentials Shop
  • Latest Deals
  • Style Scenarios
  • Reviews
  • Forum

Style Debate: The Short Sleeve Button Up

June 28, 2011 By Joe | Heads up: Buying via our links may result in us getting a commission. Also, we take your privacy rights seriously. Head here to learn more.

J. Crew Factory Short Sleeve Button Up – $24.99 (Ships Free, FINAL Sale)

It’s hot.  And wardrobe options in the summer get real limited, real quick.  Forget multiple layers with multiple types of fabric.  At this point most of us are just trying not to look like Patrick Ewing at the World Sauna Championships.  But is everything fair game in the name of keeping cool?  Even the Homer Simpson favored short sleeve button up shirt?

The case FOR the S.S.B.U.: Well first, you don’t tuck it in, you don’t wear a tie with it, and it’s reserved for casual settings.  You can only wear so many polos and t-shirts.  It’s a little breezier than those options, and unlike polos and tees, you can pick up short sleeve button ups in patterns like gingham.

The case AGAINST the S.S.B.U.: With all due respect, well fitting polos and tees never get tiresome.  It’s really hard to look good in one of these things because unlike polos and tees, none of these seem to fit well.  Honestly, they’re a bit of a waste.  Why go with chopped sleeves when you can buy a year round button up and simply roll up the sleeves?  That way, you won’t have to shelve the shirt come September.

Your turn.  Which side are you on?  Are you for the short sleeve button up?  Or do you feel like you’re channeling most middle aged men’s affinity for billowing camp shirts when you put one on?  Leave your take in the comments…

Filed Under: Clothing Tagged With: short sleeve button up, short sleeves, style debate, Summer

Continue the Conversation …

Want to share your thoughts on this article? Send us a tweet, join the discussion on Facebook, or start a discussion on Dappered Threads, our forum!

Don’t Miss Anything

Subscribe via email to get articles in your inbox or add Dappered on Flipboard. You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Or subscribe to push notifications to get alerts immediately.

New Here?

Well, welcome to Dappered. Here are what we consider the most useful posts on the site if you're looking to put a little more effort into your appearance. Just want to see our favorite menswear products? Shop our essentials here.

What I Wore Today Working from Home: Brandon, Trial Attorney

What I Wore Today Working from Home: Brandon, Trial Attorney

WIWTWFH is back… because it never left.

Win it: The Made in the USA Boarding Pass Flight Briefcase

Win it: The Made in the USA Boarding Pass Flight Briefcase

Plus a 20% off code. Made in the USA. Hits all the right notes.

TUESDAY Men’s Sales Tripod – Bronze Watches, Allen Edmonds Sneakers, & More

TUESDAY Men’s Sales Tripod – Bronze Watches, Allen Edmonds Sneakers, & More

Plus End of Season events from J. Crew as well as Under Armour.

Follow Dappered on Instagram »

Comments

  1. Rey Rey says

    June 28, 2011 at 8:30 AM

    I would say that one could wear a S.S.B.U and be fine in a casual setting. I agree a fitted polo can fit in tons of settings better but a well tailored S.S.B.U can be just as versatile.

    As for the rolled up sleeves they can become laboring, is noticeably odd in some settings, and could easily turn into your “staple” amongst friends.

    I wouldn’t say an S.S.B.U should be a large investment but I keep a couple on hand for the month of warmth my city sees.

  2. Vizzle says

    June 28, 2011 at 8:30 AM

    I’m a fan of SSBU’s in linen only. I just got a bunch cheap from Uniqlo. They fit great, they still look good wrinkled, and they are so breezy and cool that I may never wear a polo again on +90 degree days.

  3. Blaine Stewart says

    June 28, 2011 at 8:36 AM

    I love them in a trim fit… with some nice light weight shorts. But it’s not for everyone.

  4. Anonymous says

    June 28, 2011 at 9:52 AM

    If the shirt fits, wear it.

    Just bought this (http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=65293&vid=1&pid=837602) the other day. Fit is great. Trim through the sides, and the sleeves are the right length, though sometimes i roll them once or twice. It’s definitely not an everyday look, and it’s not for everyone, but it can be done.

  5. Justin says

    June 28, 2011 at 10:59 AM

    I can see where it could work….but most of the time guys just end up looking like this: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.tvsquad.com/media/2009/02/two_and_a_half_men__3_.jpg

  6. Anonymous says

    June 28, 2011 at 11:22 AM

    Well that’s different; he’s about to go bowling!

  7. Anonymous says

    June 28, 2011 at 11:23 AM

    I’m pretty decidedly not a fan of the SSBU. I just don’t like the way the sleeves end up looking, and it’s never *quite* right. Nothing wrong with being the guy who rolls his sleeves up, imo.

  8. Dudegb says

    June 28, 2011 at 11:24 AM

    SSBB linens or madras are fine and like vizzle said they look good wrinkled.

  9. grasking says

    June 28, 2011 at 11:26 AM

    If I was getting as much money as Charlie Sheen was getting to wear those, I would too.

  10. JRok says

    June 28, 2011 at 11:28 AM

    C’mon Joe…you gotta give Quiksilver some love man.  Their clothes fit great and I always shop from their sale section of their webpage. The quality is always top notch and they have a huge variety of clothing to choose from.  Their jeans fit very well also, but I’m here today folks to tout their S.S.B.U….especially the Waterman collection.  Cheers!

  11. pajarosucio says

    June 28, 2011 at 12:28 PM

    I’m personally a fan, but they have to be tailored or very well fitting, especially in the sleeves.  

  12. Anonymous says

    June 28, 2011 at 12:49 PM

    MWM ISO Seersucker SSBU; slim, breezy, ready to be taken fishing, then thrown on the floor.

  13. Anonymous says

    June 28, 2011 at 1:35 PM

    As with any piece of clothing, color, fit are  all that matters…I was once not a fan of the SSBU, but I am now…The trick is proportion everything needs to be slim fitting, I wouldnt recomment this look to a heavier guy or a really skinny guy, but certainly on an average build to athlethic person, this is a GO. The shirt sleeve should land right in middle of your bicep, around the point where your tricep is cutting…Shirt must have a short tail and must only be worn as in a casual setting and with anything except dress pants…Pants must be in proportion as well or your will look off balance…

  14. Ben Boskovich says

    June 28, 2011 at 1:59 PM

    http://thestatetorialist.wordpress.com/2011/05/23/trend-gradually-adapted/

    I wrote my review of the SSBU here since I’ve been seeing so many around. 

  15. Jackson says

    June 28, 2011 at 2:16 PM

    Never knew this warranted a debate.  I can certainly understand an aversion to the Homer Simpson, but a well cut, slim fitting casual SSBU can look slick, hangs better than most polos, and in a fine cotton/linen will keep you cool and airy when temperatures soar.

    Brought to you by the Short Sleeve Button Up Association of America. 

  16. Ryan N. says

    June 28, 2011 at 3:04 PM

    Mossimo (Target) has slim-fitting SSBUs, some are even beginning to go on clearance in-store. Might want to check them out. http://www.target.com/Mossimo-Poplin-Shirt-Red-White/dp/B004APMQBM/ref=br_1_5?ie=UTF8&id=Mossimo%20Poplin%20Shirt%20Red%20White&node=366539011&searchSize=30&searchView=grid3&searchPage=2&sr=1-5&qid=1309273348&rh=&searchBinNameList=subjectbin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=salesrank&frombrowse=1

  17. Derek says

    June 28, 2011 at 3:14 PM

    I bought a blue gingham short sleeve button up from J Crew during their sale and don’t regret it at all. It looks great and feels great and that’s all I need.

  18. Joe G. says

    June 28, 2011 at 3:34 PM

    I work in a business casual setting, and ssbu’s have been a summer staple for me for many years. I don’t necessarily PREFER the look over a polo, but I would say it’s on par.

  19. JordanE says

    June 28, 2011 at 3:37 PM

    Speaking as a guy who lives in an ungodly hot climate (San Antonio, TX), it never really gets COLD at all.  So SSBU’s are pretty vital in my own wardrobe.  I can not only wear them in the summer with shorts and Sperry’s but also can fit it in even in November sometimes…..I probably should move. Even as I type it’s like 103 out there. 

  20. Red_warrior47 says

    June 28, 2011 at 4:18 PM

    Even living in the unbearable Phoenix desert, I can’t possibly get behind the short sleeve button up.  I just don’t like the look of them and no longer own any (I went through a phase in middle school, but finally got rid of them).

    That said, I have seen a couple (as in max. 2) people that can make them look good…I’m just not one of them. :-/

  21. Tergiversator_Maximus says

    June 28, 2011 at 5:31 PM

    I have a couple that are linen blends or feel like linen blends, but I don’t know that that’s quite what you’re getting at – they’re basically Acapulco shirts without the crazy palm leave patterns.  I used to have a gingham short-sleeved button up, but it was from Old Navy, I was in high school, and it was just not very comfortable.  I still have a solid, navy one that I bought at an H&M when I was in Spain for a semester; it has a covered placket but the fabric is on the stiffer side and it doesn’t really have enough room for relaxed movement in the shoulders.

  22. BenR says

    June 28, 2011 at 6:45 PM

    Just don’t be the guy who wears them with a tie under a suit. Or with a tie, at all. Unless you’re going door-to-door prosthelytizing, this just isn’t a winning combo.

  23. Schuster 1 says

    June 28, 2011 at 7:27 PM

    I have one. It was a gift. Every time I see it in the closet I think, “Dwight Schrute III” and Dilbert, even if it were to be worn casual, and not to the office.

  24. jacob says

    June 28, 2011 at 7:44 PM

    I just went looking for some and only felt the fit and tailoring I wanted came from H&M. They had fun summer plaids and gingham and had sleeves that were narrow and short along with a length that didn’t look like it needed to be tucked in. Even the JCrew ones were disappointing.

  25. Glen says

    June 28, 2011 at 8:48 PM

    I bought quite a few for this summer – the wife insisted. I’ve worn 2 so far. I just don’t see the need if I can just roll up my sleeves or wear polos.

    What’s really killing me is that I’m not supposed to tuck in SSBU’s. I’m a short dude and the lengths are just too long.

  26. DaveD says

    June 28, 2011 at 9:27 PM

    They’re no worse than ill-fitting, boxy polos. Now, we’ve all seen droves of men wearing those. In a trim, slim fit they are great along with polos and tshirts. It’s all about the fit….

  27. Naka says

    June 28, 2011 at 10:55 PM

    You best be trollin’

  28. St-laurent says

    June 29, 2011 at 2:16 AM

    I think in linen they are a great casual shirt. And as I wear casual 90% of the time, I’ve been hunting for some lately to break up the polos. But as just about everyone above has mentioned, getting something that FITS is not easy. So far I can’t seem to find a true athletic-cut one – the solid Old Navy ones (that seem to be pretty scarce in my area) are not bad as long as I don’t hung anyone, or start signaling airplanes. They do have reasonable armholes and tail length, though I wonder why I can find a straight cut/no tail as I think they look best untucked.

  29. discipline problem says

    June 29, 2011 at 3:22 AM

    I have a few, just retired a purple RL one that I rocked for years.  I have a linen one from Benetton and another lighter weight one from BR.  Importantly, I wear them year-round.  It’s nice to lose the bulk under closer fitting sweaters in the fall and winter. 

  30. Thejohnp says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:28 AM

    As long as it’s a guayabera, I have no problems.

  31. Emil says

    June 29, 2011 at 4:30 PM

    Need more be said? http://www.beingjamesbond.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1228

  32. Ethan says

    June 29, 2011 at 7:48 PM

    I personally go with both.  Variety is the spice of life.

  33. Derek says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:13 PM

    So get ’em tailored!

  34. Derek says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:13 PM

    So get ’em tailored!

  35. Derek says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:14 PM

    See, I think a straight cut looks terrible. A shorter length that still has a tail is perfect. The short-sleeved gingham shirt I have from J Crew has a perfect length.

  36. Derek says

    June 30, 2011 at 3:14 PM

    See, I think a straight cut looks terrible. A shorter length that still has a tail is perfect. The short-sleeved gingham shirt I have from J Crew has a perfect length.

  37. Rob says

    June 30, 2011 at 6:10 PM

    Life After Denim makes some fantastic SSBU’s. I bought one this one from the STAG brick-and-mortar here in Austin, and its becoming one of my favorite shirts – http://stagaustin.com/A03010940032.html

    Of course, being in Texas means this one can pretty much be a year-round staple for me…interested to see what I can do with it in winter…might end up looking great with my Carhart work jacket.

  38. Rob says

    June 30, 2011 at 6:10 PM

    Life After Denim makes some fantastic SSBU’s. I bought one this one from the STAG brick-and-mortar here in Austin, and its becoming one of my favorite shirts – http://stagaustin.com/A03010940032.html

    Of course, being in Texas means this one can pretty much be a year-round staple for me…interested to see what I can do with it in winter…might end up looking great with my Carhart work jacket.

  39. Durden says

    July 1, 2011 at 6:03 PM

    I agree with the suit part.

    I may be the only one here that thinks some people with the right body type and the right cut SSBU can pull off the tie:

    http://wwwimage.cbs.com/cms/files/images/web_assets/primetime/the_mentalist/bios/Tim_Kang_0038r.jpg

    I’m a 205 lb 6’1″ engineer with glasses, so a part of me wants to bust out the pocket protector and sport a tie one day and really overplay the sterotype. I guess it’s a fine line between overplaying and playing into it so I haven’t done it…yet!

    Without tie, I’ve had
    good luck with the Gap Slim Fit SSBU when they go on sale. 

  40. Dan G says

    July 8, 2011 at 3:18 PM

    the importance here is the fit. You don’t want it to bag around the arms and you don’t want the sleeves to hang long. Also solid colors really help your case. When I wear it it goes for more of a 1950s greaser type look.

  41. MissPositive says

    July 27, 2011 at 6:17 AM

    I hate short sleeve button down shirts so much! I think they should be illegal to manufacture! I agree that men should opt for the long sleeve button down & roll up the sleeves! It’s not really cooler to cut off 8-10 inches of fabric! I also prefer men to wear white t-shirts under their long sleeve button downs even in the summer! A) it’s moisture wicking B) it makes your shi longer by saving the under arms of a nice shirt from getting discolored C) I really don’t want to see all of your chest hair unless we are at the beach, on the boat or in the bedroom!!!

Men’s Fashion or Affordable Style?

Men's Fashion or Affordable Style?

Fashion is temporary and expensive. Style is timeless and affordable. Dappered® helps you work the retail system so that you can be comfortable, look sharp, and save money.

Want to share a great product? Email Us.
Continue the discussion at Dappered Threads.
For a fit perspective, see Joe's measurements.
Make sure to read our affiliate disclosure.

Connect with Dappered

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Most Popular on Dappered

  • Steal Alert: Nordstrom Extra 25% off Sale Items Clearance Blowout
  • adidas End of Season, Allen Edmonds Warehouse Sale, & More – The Thurs. Men’s Sales Handful
  • TUESDAY Men’s Sales Tripod – Bronze Watches, Allen Edmonds Sneakers, & More
  • Best Posts of 2020: A lot of watches, some shoes, and being a stylish dad
  • Steal Alert: 97% Wool / 3% Spandex Dress Pants from The Tie Bar for $25
  • Best Posts of 2020: Athleisure, Activewear, and Hot Weather

Popular Topics

  • Best dress shirts to own
  • Best looking watches under $100
  • Best men’s dress shoes under $200
  • Nike Killshot sneaker alternatives
  • How to wear a suit without a tie
  • Suitsupply store review
  • Suitsupply Blue Line review
  • J. Crew Factory Thompson suit review
  • How much does it cost to tailor a suit?
  • Dopp kit essentials
  • Brown shoes with gray pants
  • Men’s style buying guide

RSS Latest on Dappered Threads

  • Recommendations on American Made Denim (for my Wife)
  • AE Dalton too stiff
  • SuitSupply Linen Tuxedo
  • hiking shoes for AE dress shoe dress boot guy.
  • Blazer aaaand...

Copyright © 2021 Dappered.com | Dappered, LLC | Dappered® is a registered trademark of Dappered, LLC

Hat tip: Magazine Pro Theme On Genesis Framework

Dappered does not collect or sell its users personal information | Disclosures: Privacy and Affiliates, Gilt.com, FTC

WPE

We work with partners that use cookies to understand how visitors use our site. Find out more.