So you’re attracted to corduroy shirts more for their lumberjack, New England hiker association than, say, hitting a French New Wave/Eric Rohmer fall note? No problems there. Let me first draw your attention to J.Crew, who unsurprisingly sell an exemplary corduroy work shirt with all the details—chest pockets, locker loop for hanging—you’re likely looking for. All that said, there’s still a luxurious hand at work here: the three colorways (Dove, Black, and Loden Green) are a little “quiet luxury,” and the garment-dyed treatment gives the impression it’s shielded you from the elements through plenty of winters already.
Best Budget Corduroy Shirt: L.L.Bean Comfort Stretch Corduroy Long Sleeve
Machine washable: Yes | Sizing: S-XXXL | Colorways: Burgundy, Coal, Deep Green, Silver Birch, Vintage Indigo, Walnut
We’ll get to Double RL in a second—first, it’s time for Double L. As expected, here comes a true workhorse corduroy shirt in a wider (and more outdoorsy) color range than the J.Crew’ option —and for 15 bucks less! This might be the most affordable shirt on this list, but it’s also the one with the highest number of contemporary details. First, there’s 2 percent spandex in the construction, meaning it’ll stretch a little wherever you need it to. And second, the hem is cut to be just a tad shorter, so the shirt can be worn untucked without looking like you haven’t grown into your father’s hand-me-downs yet.
Best Western Corduroy Shirt: RRL Tan Slim Fit Corduroy Western Shirt
Machine washable: Yes | Sizing: XS-XXL | Colorway: Tan
My favorite development in menswear over the past few years has been the return of Western wear. And while there are plenty of excellent upstarts across the category, it’s the RRL label—Ralph Lauren’s homage to his Colorado ranch, and to well-worn Americana as a whole—that kept the style front and center even when many of us were looking in the other direction. RRL’s corduroy Western Shirt is an object of real beauty, from the press-stud closures to the flap pockets, shoulder detailing, distinctive metal button at the collar, and looser, “relaxing at the cabin” fit. It also comes in a faded tan shade that just has to be referencing a faded brown item from Ralph’s own wardrobe. We’ll see you on Dutton Ranch.
Best Corduroy Popover Shirt: Alex Mill Carter Popover Shirt
Machine washable: Yes | Sizing: XS-XXL | Colorways: Light Putty, Aegean Blue, Navy, ‘Umber’ Brown
I’ve said it before, but I think Alex Mill CEO Mickey Drexler—the man who led GAP and J.Crew in the 1990s and 2000s—still cares deeply about putting out good product, and not cutting any design corners. (see our guide to the best chinos and tote bags as proof.) He also isn’t afraid to play around a little, as evidenced by the various colors and popover design of the brand’s take on a corduroy shirt. It’s admittedly more casual than a true button-down, but if you’re looking for a comfy corduroy shirt, that’s probably more than fine with you.
Best Relaxed Corduroy Shirt: ERL Brown Corduroy Shirt
Machine washable: Yes | Sizing: S-XL | Colorway: Green
