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TAKE 5:

STAND-OUT SHIRTS

with Selfridges Men’s Designer Street Buyer Ajani Dowey

Welcome to our regular round-up of the five key pieces to shop now, chosen by those in the know. This time, we called on our Men’s Designer Street Buyer, Ajani Dowey, to pick out the most striking shirts.

After months of working from home (and counting), the thought of a plain old shirt just doesn’t cut it for us right now. Instead, we’ve called on Ajani to pick out the best printed, patterned, personality-packed shirts – guaranteed to bring a little cheer into our lives. Aside from his professional expertise in cutting-edge menswear, Ajani’s personal style aligns with these eye-catching button-ups: “I love colour, I love print, and I’m known for being partial to a sheer number. Whenever I’m shopping for myself, I simply pick things that make me smile. If it doesn’t bring you joy, move on!”

Let’s start the count…

STÜSSY

Venus-print woven shirt

Best for: a new take on a classic 

“Stüssy is a brand we’ve been buying since before I started working at Selfridges six years ago, and it’s always been a customer favourite. Everyone is familiar with the brand’s logo tees and sweats, but, trust me, the shirts are brilliant. I really like the romance of the print on this shirt and would wear it with a clean pair of wide-leg trousers, then I’d wait for a gentle breeze to add some drama. Poetry in motion.”

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A BATHING APE

Flame slim-fit cotton shirt

Best for: a 00s throwback

“When I was younger, I remember watching MTV Base and seeing everyone wearing BAPE. It’s so tied into that 2000s R&B, hip-hop image, thanks in part to the brand’s co-founder Pharrell who’s a style inspiration of mine – he’s ridiculously cool without even trying, and he’s not afraid to make a statement. I always enjoy seeing how the brand uses the ape head motif. No matter what they do, it’s instantly recognisable – a true icon.”

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PALM ANGELS

Canyon-print cotton bowling shirt

Best for: bringing the outdoors into your wardrobe

“The outdoor scene on this shirt from L.A. label Palm Angels really appeals to my sense of adventure. After staying inside all summer, the print takes on an even greater meaning because it transports you to the great outdoors. The brushstroke detail itself is also really beautiful. As for the cut, I love bowling shirts because they’re a classic shape that always looks good paired with some denim shorts in the summer.”

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ACNE STUDIOS

Salak plaid cotton shirt

Best for: embracing the classics

“Everybody needs a checked shirt in their wardrobe, and Swedish brand Acne Studios should be on everybody’s essentials list because it’s a brand that designs great basics as well as great fashion pieces. It’s a one-stop shop! Checks are a staple every season, and what’s nice about this style is that the more you look at it, the better it gets, thanks to the changing direction of the pattern on the pocket, arms and across the back.”

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GUCCI

Logo-pattern silk shirt

Best for: a subtle statement

“You have to love a bit of Gucci. The collections and shows are so playful, and Alessandro Michele constantly pushes things forward with his references and styling – going to the Gucci showroom is always a good time. Save this for when you want to flex…in a subtle way. Black doesn’t have to be boring, especially when it’s silk and covered in a logo motif. Styling it with big glasses and the flourish of a little scarf would be perfect.”

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Complete the look

Styles to complement those collars and cuffs

Discover the rest of our summer shop

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