The Popover

The Popover.  An interesting take on a dress shirt with a few good adjustments.  A Popover is just that – a dress shirt that you pop over your head.  They were originally created by Gant in the 60’s, where the placket stops about mid-way down the shirt.  These aren’t as formal as a dress shirt, but are much more flexible.  For the most part, they are readily available in traditional solids and stripes.  Just how you like it…

They look great under a sport coat or untucked with a pair of khakis.  Just make sure to buy them with a slimmer cut – otherwise it looks like you are wearing a smock.

Here’s how to do it right:

Two cool American brands…  F.E. Castleberry teamed up with Jack Robie for a couple options, an oxford blue and this red bengal stripe.  Go nuts.  You shouldn’t expect anything less from Brooks Brothers.  Their slim fit popover has a nice grosgrain placket that should give it a bit of pop under a blue blazer.

Jack Robie X F.E. Castleberry Red Bengal Stripe Popover
Brooks Brothers Solid Oxford Popover Sport Shirt

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Sid rarely misses.  Hell, the guy made day-glow cool.  His popovers have that perfect fit – slim but not skinny.  His are offered in the most traditional of all flavors, but can be dressed up (with trousers and a sport coat) or down (untucked with Levi’s and mocs).  Options:

Sid Mashburn Blue Diamond Popover
Sid Mashburn White Oxford Popover
Sid Mashburn Banker Stripe Popover

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The options from J. Crew are almost camp shirts rather than dress oxfords, which makes them perfect for business casual or weekend wear.  The sky blue herringbone is like wearing a shirt that has been washed a thousand times, and the Navy blue garment dyed is the perfect compliment to khakis or tan jeans.  Both are boot appropriate.

J. Crew Brushed Twill Popover in Heather Sky
J. Crew Lightweight Garment Dyed Popover