This article presents the results of an analysis of the air permeability behaviour of shirting fabrics. Woven fabrics comprising derivatives of plain fabric, such as voile, poplin and canvas, were selected. The fabrics were made from 100% cotton, and blends of 50% polyester and 50% cotton. Light-weight fabrics, such as voile, had the highest air permeability and are suitable for summer shirting fabrics, while canvas fabrics had the lowest air permeability and are suitable for winter shirting fabrics. Finally, 100% cotton poplin fabrics are more comfortable than polyester/cotton poplin for summer shirting fabrics.