By Ebuka Uzonwanne

The check shirt is an item that even the most fashionably inept individual can relate to.

It’s a classic piece that transcends the wardrobes of men across the globe – from sharply dressed city boys to rugged, blue-collar workers.

Their popularity is plain to see; you only need to walk along your local high street for confirmation. But this popularity comes at a price, and quite a serious one at that.

The problem is, check shirts have become a little boring. Certainly not as an item in itself – they’re available in more patterns, sizes and palettes than ever before.

All too often do we see large groups of men staggering around town after dark in horrible shirts, terrible jeans and pointed black shoes.

Too often do we see check shirts worn un-tucked and too often do we see check shirts worn in the most dull and uninspiring ways imaginable.

Yet this is a timeless piece that has a lot to offer the modern style, way more than what your local city or high street might suggest.

The check shirt is one of these safe options and if we really want them to work for us in a unique and contemporary way, we need to re-evaluate the way we approach them.

A check shirt on a ripped jeans and leather boots to match is a fast option for a casual gentleman. See photo for more style inspiration.