From the runways of international fashion capitals, one menswear trend has quietly cemented itself as a modern classic: the open collar shirt.

Season after season, designers have been embracing Camp collars, Johnny collars, and other relaxed necklines that swap the rigidity of traditional dress shirts for something far more effortless. It's a look that captures the mood of contemporary menswear that’s more relaxed, yet no less refined.

Perhaps that's why the trend feels especially at home in the Philippines. In a tropical climate where comfort is just as important as style, the open collar shirt strikes the right balance. The appeal lies in its simplicity: Instead of a tightly buttoned collar and necktie, the open neckline naturally frames the face, creating a clean V-shape that flatters almost every build. Worn on its own or layered under a lightweight jacket, it projects confidence without trying too hard.

Bringing this global trend closer to home, SM Fashion introduces its own take on the modern open collar shirt through selections available at SM Store from Men's Club, Baleno, and Coco Republic.

For men looking for a more elevated interpretation, Men's Club presents Camp and Johnny collar shirts that combine refined tailoring with lightweight fabrics suited to warm-weather dressing. The relaxed neckline offers an easy alternative to the traditional office shirt, making it ideal for lunch meetings, dinners, or occasions where looking polished matters without sacrificing comfort.

Baleno approaches the trend with everyday versatility in mind. Its collection focuses on easy-to-wear pieces that pair effortlessly with jeans, chinos, or tailored trousers. The structured open collar subtly elongates the neckline, creating a flattering silhouette while maintaining the brand's signature emphasis on comfort and practicality.

Meanwhile, Coco Republic embraces the resort-inspired spirit that first made open collars popular. Its relaxed shirts feel right at home on tropical getaways but transition just as naturally into the city, offering endless styling possibilities whether worn with linen shorts or lightweight trousers.

Fashion trends come and go, but some endure because they simply make sense. The open collar shirt is one of them. It reflects how men dress today, less restricted by rigid rules and more focused on pieces that adapt to different lifestyles and occasions.

Somehow it represents the evolution of modern menswear. And in a country where warm weather is a constant, it may well be one of the smartest wardrobe investments a man can make.