Pinpoint may initially feel like an odd name for a shirting fabric. After all, the point of a pin isn’t what you want to feel against your skin.

Of course, no pins are used in the making of a pinpoint shirt. The name refers to the unique way the fabric is made.

What is pinpoint fabric?
Pinpoint fabric is best understood as a sort of cousin to oxford fabric (in fact, it is sometimes called a pinpoint oxford). Like oxford fabric, pinpoint is woven in a basket-style weave. However, pinpoint is woven more tightly, which gives it a finer appearance and makes it less textural than oxford cloth.

Why should I wear pinpoint fabric?
Pinpoint fabric is finer than oxford cloth, yet rougher and more opaque than broadcloth. This makes it a perfect in-between fabric that can be worn in business and casual situations (and particularly business casual situations). 

Its basketweave ensures that it is more breathable and wrinkle-resistant, but its smaller scale does not make it as casual as oxford cloth. This makes it particularly ideal for business travel, though it’s also a great choice for casual weekend wear. 

When to wear pinpoint fabric

You’ll love pinpoint fabric if you are looking for a slightly dressier companion to your usual oxford cloth shirts. The more opaque nature of its weave also makes it a great choice for guys that are prone to sweat just before that big presentation. 

You should skip pinpoint fabric if you want something that’s more casual and heavyweight, such as flannel.