Men's Shiny Dress Shirts Make a Comeback on Red Carpet

A resurgence of shiny dress shirts has been making waves on the red carpet and in menswear circles, prompting questions about whether men are ready for this retro trend's return.

The designer Julian Louie credits a 1998 image of director Todd Haynes sporting an iridescent purple shirt during the press tour for Velvet Goldmine with sparking his interest in shiny dress shirts. This encounter from nearly two decades ago has had a lasting impact on Louie's design aesthetic, influencing the development of Aubero, the label he launched in 2022.

The trend is gaining momentum, with several high-profile figures recently seen donning shiny garments. Pedro Pascal's red-carpet appearance earlier this year in a vibrant, luminous green shirt by Aubero drew particular attention, its brightness rivaling that of a freshly cut lime.

Heated Rivalry's Connor Storrie has consistently worn Saint Laurent's silky shirts on the red carpet, solidifying his status as a brand ambassador.

Resident Evil star Austin Abrams took the trend to new heights by donning a shiny two-piece suit from Maison Valentino, showcasing a more formal take on the look.

The resurgence of glossy dress shirts is not without precedent, as anyone familiar with early 2000s Hollywood fashion will recall. This revival has been accompanied by a renewed interest in other Y2K styles that were once considered passé.

Luxury retailer Mytheresa's menswear buying director, Sophie Jordan, points to the spring 2026 collections as a turning point for this trend, suggesting that designers are actively incorporating shiny fabrics into their designs.

Designers have continued to incorporate shiny fabrics into their collections since Gucci's first outing under Demna showcased this trend in a bold yet masculine way.

Luxury retailers like Mytheresa are seeing a significant interest in these types of evening shirts among their shoppers, with printed silk options from Tom Ford being particularly popular.

The "evening shirt" category encompasses not just shiny fabrics but also more luxurious materials such as velvet and sheer fabrics, according to Mytheresa's menswear buying director Sophie Jordan.

These designs allow men to tap into the sensual aspects of menswear without going over the top, instead providing a subtle yet eye-catching way to make an impression.

The resurgence of shiny dress shirts in menswear is a phenomenon that has been building momentum over the past few seasons. Louie's early designs showcased his unique approach to reimagining traditional materials and silhouettes for the modern man.

Notably, some prominent fashion houses have continued to feature shiny dress shirts on their runways, including Tom Ford and Dolce & Gabbana. These labels' use of this style element has helped keep it relevant and desirable among fashion enthusiasts.

Dries Van Noten's creative take on the classic dress shirt has further elevated its status in menswear. By incorporating bold prints and patterns into his designs, he has transformed the garment into a true work of art.

The shift towards adopting shiny dress shirts can also be attributed to the influence of labels like Our Legacy, which continues to push the boundaries of fashion with their unique shirting designs that have garnered a loyal following among adventurous dressers.

The shift towards adopting shiny dress shirts can be attributed to various factors, including the influence of fashion labels pushing boundaries with unique designs.

For those who want to dip their toes into this trend without going overboard, there are options available that blend cotton and silk in varying proportions, resulting in a subtle sheen. Brands like Auralee and Tom Ford offer dress shirts with more cotton than silk, providing a finish that catches the light without being too flashy.

As Jordan suggests, it's wise for beginners to start with a moderate approach, incorporating a little texture and sheen into their wardrobe before making a full commitment to shiny dress shirts.