Safari Shirts - The Ultimate Guide

Safari shirts are timeless utility-inspired blouses characterised by their structured design, chest pockets, and versatile styling potential that seamlessly transitions from office wear to weekend adventures. As a stylist, I've watched this classic piece evolve from its practical origins into one of the most sophisticated wardrobe staples every woman should own.

I've been styling women for over a decade, and safari shirts remain one of my most recommended pieces. They're incredibly flattering on virtually every body type, offer endless styling possibilities, and provide that effortless 'put-together' look we're all chasing. Whether you're heading to a meeting or meeting friends for brunch, a well-cut safari shirt delivers instant sophistication.

What Makes the Perfect Safari Shirt

The anatomy of an exceptional safari shirt lies in its details. Look for structured shoulders that create a flattering silhouette, functional chest pockets that add visual interest without bulk, and a fabric weight that holds its shape throughout the day. The best safari shirts feature mother-of-pearl or tonal buttons, reinforced stress points, and a cut that skims rather than clings.

Fit is absolutely crucial. The shoulders should sit perfectly without pulling, the bust area should lie flat without gaping, and the hem should hit just below your hip bone for the most flattering proportions. A quality safari shirt should feel substantial without being stiff—think crisp cotton poplin or a cotton-modal blend that breathes well.

Styling Your Safari Shirt

The beauty of safari shirts lies in their chameleon-like ability to adapt to any occasion. For the office, I love tucking them into high-waisted trousers with a statement belt and blazer. The structured design creates beautiful lines under tailoring, whilst the utility details add just enough interest to elevate a simple suit.

For weekend casual, try knotting your safari shirt at the waist over a slip dress or wearing it open as a lightweight jacket over a fitted tee. The key is balancing the shirt's structured nature with softer pieces—think flowing midi skirts, relaxed denim, or wide-leg trousers.

Seasonal Styling Tips

Spring calls for safari shirts in fresh whites and khakis paired with cropped trousers and ankle boots. Summer styling works brilliantly with linen versions worn loose over swimwear or tucked into high-waisted shorts. Come autumn, layer under chunky knits or over rollnecks for textural contrast that feels effortlessly chic.

Where to Shop: Brand Recommendations

High Street Heroes

Zara consistently delivers on-trend safari shirts with contemporary cuts and seasonal updates. Their versions often feature modern details like oversized fits or unexpected colour palettes.

Mango excels at workwear-appropriate safari shirts with clean lines and quality fabrics. Their designs strike the perfect balance between structured and comfortable.

COS offers minimalist safari shirts with architectural details and premium fabrics. Their pieces feel investment-worthy despite the accessible pricing.

H&M provides excellent entry-level options perfect for experimenting with the style. Their sustainable Conscious range often includes well-made safari shirt options.

M&S delivers reliable, well-fitting safari shirts with proper sizing consistency. Their cotton quality is particularly impressive for the price point.

Whistles creates contemporary safari shirts with elevated details like contrast stitching or unexpected sleeve lengths. Perfect for the fashion-forward professional.

Reiss specialises in polished safari shirts that work beautifully for smart-casual occasions. Their attention to fit and finish is consistently impressive.

Barbour brings heritage appeal with safari shirts that nod to the style's outdoor origins whilst maintaining sophisticated appeal.

Premium Picks

For elevated options, Equipment creates silk safari shirts that drape beautifully and feel incredibly luxurious. Theory offers clean-lined versions in technical fabrics that travel beautifully and resist wrinkles.

Luxury Investment Pieces

Max Mara produces safari shirts with impeccable tailoring and luxurious fabrics. Their white cotton versions are wardrobe workhorses that justify their price through longevity.

The Row creates minimalist safari shirts with perfect proportions and premium materials. These are pieces you'll treasure for decades.

Unique Discoveries

Finisterre offers sustainably-made safari shirts with outdoor performance credentials. Their pieces work beautifully for active lifestyles whilst maintaining sophisticated appeal.

Orvis brings authentic heritage to safari styling with shirts designed for actual adventures. Their women's line combines function with surprisingly flattering cuts.

Fit and Sizing Considerations

Safari shirts should fit like your favourite button-down but with slightly more structure through the body. Pay attention to armhole placement—too low creates a sloppy silhouette, whilst too high restricts movement. The chest pockets should lie flat without pulling, and button stance should allow comfortable movement without gaping.

When trying on safari shirts, raise your arms, sit down, and move naturally. A quality piece will maintain its shape and comfort through all these movements. Remember that some styles run larger due to their utilitarian origins, so don't hesitate to size down for a more fitted silhouette.

Never Worry About Sizing Again with Tellar.co.uk

Finding the perfect safari shirt fit across different brands can be frustrating, but Tellar.co.uk eliminates that guesswork entirely. As the UK's leading sizing tool, Tellar matches your body exactly to over 1,500 brands instantly, so you'll never need to look at a size guide again.

How Tellar Works

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or your existing brand size.

2. Use their Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand—COS, Reiss, Everlane, Arket & more.

3. Always free, no downloads needed—works in-browser.

Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond sizing, Tellar offers a comprehensive Fashion Hub—a library stacked with free posts from top stylists. Honest, unbiased, independent advice that's always free, covering style guidance, top picks, and best brands.

Explore more styling guides:

Final Styling Thoughts

Safari shirts represent everything I love about timeless style—they're practical yet polished, versatile yet distinctive. Whether you invest in a luxury version or start with a high street find, focus on fit and fabric quality. A well-chosen safari shirt will serve you faithfully for years, adapting to trends whilst maintaining its classic appeal.

Remember, confidence is your best accessory. Choose a safari shirt that makes you feel powerful and polished, then wear it with the assurance that you've invested in a truly timeless piece.