It’s getting
more difficult to find shirts with interesting details that don’t look tacky.
I’m always a fan of classic with a twist, and the Rastigar NPE shirt in
Chambray Dot by Theory is just that.
The shirt is
a lightweight cotton with what appears to be a faded tonal dot pattern. What
makes the shirt interesting is that shirt seems to have been constructed with
the ‘wrong side’ of the fabric facing out to provide the faded appearance
because the inside of the shirt features a nice vibrant polka dot (which is
great for when you roll your sleeves).
Theory tends
to run on the trim side and this shirt was no exception. I tried on a Medium
and while it was certainly a tailored fit, it was not overly snug. I felt
comfortable with a full range of motion and no pulling that I could feel.
The shirt
features a point collar and could easily be paired with a tie (and tucked in if
you had to) for a dressier look or left untucked with an open collar for a more
casual one. It has a button down front, button cuffs, and a rounded hem that
measures about 29”.
Theory is
also usually rather expensive and, at $225, this shirt is certainly not cheap.
Before you write it off completely though, consider the quality factor. Theory
makes pieces that are classic and timeless in design and, in my experience,
every Theory piece that I have owned has lasted me for years (with proper care,
of course), which goes a long way to offsetting the price.
When I say
it goes a long way, it doesn’t quite take it all the way there for me. I would
seriously consider making the purchase at 25% or 30% off, but full price is
just too hard for me to justify. It is dry clean only, which is a factor
because the care and maintenance costs will be higher and the life will be shorter
(because of the chemicals) than if it was machine washable.
In this
instance, the quality and nice detailing doesn’t offset the price for me. If
you have the money to spend, it is definitely a great piece worth investing in,
but I know that there are other shirts that I like as much (or better) for a
better price. As with all purchases, weigh the cost against the quality and fit
and make the best decision for you.
Stay
stylish,
- JJ
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