WORDS BY OLIVIA WOODHOUSE

Envision this: the sun is setting on your hotel terrace, anticipation for the evening fills the air and a crisp Casablanca shirt hangs patiently in your wardrobe. Founded by Charaf Tajer in 2018, the label pays homage to the designer’s dual heritage. Raised in Morocco before moving to Paris, Tajer’s aesthetic evokes the colors of spice markets, mosaic walls and the clay courts of Stade Roland Garros. Casablanca shirts have become the brand’s signature, defined by retro influences, confident colors and unexpected prints. If you’re wondering how to style these standout pieces, keep reading for menswear merchandiser Beata Drzymalska’s top picks, plus first-hand sizing insights.

For a subtle touch of Casablanca design, opt for the pocket-detail shirt with a Cuban collar. It subtly marries Miami Vice influence with a preppy finish that can easily integrate into your everyday vacation wardrobe. Your suitcase will thank you for it.

Beata’s styling tips:

- Maintain that effortless simplicity by pairing with mid to light wash blue jeans.

- A straight-leg or slightly relaxed fit complements the feel of the shirt better than anything too tight or distressed. 

- Finish the look by throwing on your favorite pair of leather sandals or clean-look sneakers.

Casablanca’s identity is rooted in whimsical prints – and this shirt encapsulates this perfectly. The Better Days motif runs across the eponymous line and reflects a bohemian feel. The icing on the cake? Crafted from 100% silk, this piece is effortlessly elevated to eveningwear status.

Beata’s styling tips:

- Let the shirt do the talking, while keeping the rest of your outfit minimal. 

- Go neutral with a pair of lightweight tailored trousers, or pull out a specific color from the shirt’s palette for a bolder look. 

- Accessorize with solid gold jewelry to complement the warm tones of the shirt.

Hark back to Charaf Tajer’s Moroccan heritage with this modern take on tile print. Whether you’re enjoying an Ibizan sunset from a bustling beach club or you’re enjoying the heady atmosphere of Marrakech’s ancient medina, this shirt gives I just-threw-this-on energy.

Beata’s styling tips:

- Perfectly designed for that co-ord moment, wearing this shirt with the matching shorts will make a statement. 

- Break up the pattern by layering over a crisp white T-shirt or solid colored tank. 

- Add some simple shoes to keep the focus on the head-to-toe print.

Change up the silk editions with a knitted shirt. First popularized in the 20s as part of leisurewear and sports styles and later re-emerging in the 60s as a mod fashion staple, the knitted men’s shirt gives double points for both style and retro influence.

Beata’s styling tips:

- A nod to retro tenniscore, this piece is perfect for adding an element of texture to your outfit, and extra breathability in warmer weather. 

- Keep the look relaxed by leaving untucked to show off the boxy cut and those subtle pockets. 

- Team with the matching shorts and crisp white sneakers for a clean look, or wear with dark navy slim-cut or straight-leg trousers to balance the proportions.

Casablanca design, but with a traditional twist, this shirt can be styled up or down. A pointed collar and long sleeves lend this shirt to smarter settings whether it’s the office or a wedding. The signature monogram retains the undeniable Casablanca feel giving you the edge over the other wedding guests.

Beata’s styling tips:

- Wear to the office with a pair of smart trousers in a muted tone, anchoring the look with a sleek pair of leather loafers and a classic watch. 

- For a more effortless feel, layer with a chunky cardigan or throw over a plain heavyweight T-shirt and relaxed-fit jeans or ankle-length pleated trousers.

We quizzed seven Casablanca lovers on the size and fit of their beloved button downs. Overwhelmingly, the consensus is that, yes, the brand’s shirts do fit true to size. 

‘They run true to size. It is so comfortable and light. You can’t go wrong with silk’, says digital creator Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.

‘It's so comfortable, and the shirt feels soft and breathable against the skin. The long-sleeved shirts definitely run true to size, which I get nervous about with some brands because I have pretty long arms — but this was perfect’, adds creator Igee Okafor.

Alex Acero, also a digital creator, comments, ‘I love the size — it fits me perfectly. Being slightly baggy, it can fit any body type. Although I usually wear much tighter T-shirts and shirts, I don't hesitate for a second when it's time to wear this Casablanca shirt.’

The breathability of the shirts was also highlighted. Creator Leo Chan says, ‘Casablanca shirts are incredibly light, breathable and comfortable.’ Regarding fit, he adds, ‘Casablanca is a mix of tailored meets vintage sportswear, so even though the shirt may fit slightly oversized and slightly boxy, you will still be left with a tailored look.’

Related articles: If you like this, you might like Trending men’s designer sneakers | Men’s winter jackets to beat the cold | Designer sneakers for Converse lovers