Tunica Operis (Latin): "Work Shirt"

Alabama Chanin and E.M. Reitz teamed up to create the ultimate work shirt. The definition of work is left to you. Constructed from fine Italian poplin, this intentionally long blouse can act as a coverup while painting a canvas, or worn over silk trousers to be an elegant armor for an evening of canapés and conversation.

The shirt has a confident collar perched on top of a button-up placket. When unbuttoned completely the placket stops below the apex, creating a sexy open neckline. Meant to be worn untucked, the front hemline is slightly shorter than the back with a delightful rounded hem. The front bib is masterfully constructed with symmetrical hand inch tucks. At the center back, you will find a dainty vertical loop that adds charm and function. The back yoke and cuffs are shirred, creating romantic volume.

This collaboration brings together Alabama Chanin and E.M. Reitz, two studios united by craftsmanship, integrity, and a shared devotion to thoughtful making.

Founded over two decades ago by Natalie Chanin, Alabama Chanin has long been a pioneer in sustainable design, preserving craft traditions through local, ethical production and garments made by hand and by heart. At its core is a belief that good things take time—and last a lifetime.

E.M. Reitz shares this reverence for process and permanence. Inspired by art, architecture, and sculpture, the studio creates seasonless shirting designed in Charleston, South Carolina, and produced in Manhattan’s historic Garment District, with an uncompromising commitment to fabric, construction, and detail.


• 100% Italian Cotton Poplin 90s yarn
• Machine-sewn in New York
• Hand-sewn label
• Available in Navy and Green


The Details:
• 36” back length, will sit mid-thigh
• Pleated bib detail
• Popover placket
• Long sleeve with extended shirttail
• Rounded cuff
• Small back yoke with shirring
• Locker loop at center back
• Rounded hem in front, straight in back
• Baby felled seam
• Trocas shell button, hand sewn with shank

Kindly note:

Navy and Green colorways are available on our website.

To order the White colorway, please visit the E.M. Reitz website here.

Owner and founder Erin Reitz describes her friendship with Natalie and shares their motivations for creating Tunica Operis.

"Our relationship began years ago, when I discovered Natalie’s work while studying at FIT [Fashion Institute of Technology]. What began as admiration evolved into mentorship and friendship during my eight years as her Design Director. She reshaped my understanding of making, moving from mass production toward a slower, more intentional practice.

This collaboration grew naturally from our shared foundation and long friendship. Both of us have always loved vintage clothing, especially worn French bed shirts, whose softness, utility, and quiet romance led us to collect them and wear them as staples in our wardrobes. Wanting to recreate what we had each been loving—while layering in our own design language and responsible production practices—we created the Tunica Operis. The result brings together our shared devotion to craftsmanship, beautiful fabric, and thoughtful design. It honors tradition while embracing innovation: clothing made slowly, intentionally, and to last."