Choosing the right work shirt can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and professional appearance.
At Uniform Australia, we’re often asked — “Should I go for an open front or closed front shirt?”
Both are popular choices in Australian workwear, but they’re designed for different environments and safety needs. Let’s look at the key differences so you can make the right call for your team.
🧰 What Is an Open Front Work Shirt?
An open front shirt (also called a full-button work shirt) features buttons running from the collar to the hem.
It’s a practical, easy-to-wear option for workers who need flexibility and ventilation throughout the day.
Ideal For:
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Tradies, warehouse and transport workers
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Warm or outdoor environments
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Jobs where workers frequently change shirts or need airflow
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Businesses wanting embroidered logos or names added to uniforms
Benefits:
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Easy to wear and remove
-
Excellent breathability
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Great for layering with tees or singlets
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Easy access for custom embroidery and branding
Top choices at Uniform Australia:
-
KingGee - K14030
⚙️ What Is a Closed Front Work Shirt?
A closed front shirt (also called a placket front or tunnel front shirt) has a short button placket — usually three or four buttons — rather than buttons running all the way down.
This style is often preferred in industries where safety comes first.
Why choose a closed front?
Closed front shirts are used in workplaces where buttons or loose fabric could catch on machinery or rub against abrasive surfaces.
They offer a cleaner, safer design that reduces the risk of snagging and improves durability in tough environments.
Ideal For:
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Electrical, mining, manufacturing, and industrial sites
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Jobs that involve machinery or equipment handling
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Sites with strict PPE uniform requirements
Benefits:
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Enhanced safety (no exposed buttons to snag)
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Professional, tidy appearance
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Better dust and spark protection
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Long-lasting wear in rugged conditions
Top brands available:
- Bisley Workwear - BSC1820
- Hard Yakka - Y07540 , Y04004
👕 Comparison: Open vs Closed Front Work Shirts
|
Feature |
Open Front Shirt |
Closed Front Shirt |
|
Front Design |
Full button opening |
Short placket (3–4 buttons) |
|
Ease of Wear |
Very easy to put on/off |
Pullover style |
|
Ventilation |
Excellent |
Moderate |
|
Safety |
Buttons can catch on machinery |
Safer for high-risk industries |
|
Best For |
Tradies, warehouses, retail |
Electrical, mining, manufacturing |
|
Embroidery |
Ideal placement on chest |
Suitable for name/logo embroidery |
✂️ Add Your Branding with In-House Embroidery
Whether you choose open front or closed front, our in-house embroidery service ensures your uniforms look sharp and professional.
We use industrial embroidery machines, quality backing, and durable thread — built to last through the toughest work conditions.
Uniform Australia has supplied embroidered workwear to tradies, corporate teams, and schools across Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and nationwide, combining safety, comfort, and style in every shirt.
🦺 Shop Workwear Built for Australian Conditions
From hi-vis shirts to industrial closed front cotton drill workwear, you’ll find all major brands under one roof:
Bisley • KingGee • Syzmik • Ritemate • Hard Yakka
Shop online at Uniform Australia or visit our Hervey Bay or Maryborough stores for personal service, embroidery samples, and local advice.
📍 Uniform Australia – your local experts in workwear, embroidery, and uniforms for tradies.