J. Crew Shirt, Everlane Jeans, Everlane Trench, Gucci Mules, Chanel Bag, Le Specs Sunglasses
When it comes to a classic and timeless wardrobe piece, take a hint from the guys and incorporate a button-down shirt into your wardrobe. A button-down shirt is a classic staple that you can wear for all seasons and occasions. From the office to date nights to running errands on the weekend, it’s amazing how transformational one piece of clothing can be! I love that the right button-up can make you look elegant and effortlessly put together, so today I’m sharing my tips on how to style a button-down shirt.
BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT IDEAS
How To Style A Button-Down Shirt
There are truly endless ways to wear a button-down shirt! Here are some of my favorite styles of button-down shirts and how I would recommend styling them throughout the seasons. Like all wardrobe pieces, I recommend considering material, fit, and style when it comes to button-down shirts.
Oversized Button-Down Shirt Outfits
Channel your inner Nancy Meyers with a classic and elegant oversized button-down shirt. I’ve been loving this Good American Button Down 2.0 shirt, which is lightweight and has an oversized fit. For a chic off-duty look, I pair it with leggings, Converse, and a cute baseball cap. For a more polished look, I style it tucked into denim trousers and drape a neutral sweater over my shoulders.
You can also style an oversized button-down shirt as a light jacket. I recommend pairing an unbuttoned shirt over a monochromatic base, like black trousers and a black tank. A oversized striped button-up shirt can also add some visual interest to an outfit, worn either opened or buttoned up.
Denim Button-Down Shirt Outfits
Update the chambray button-down shirt of the early 2010s (you know the one I’m talking about!) by investing in a darker wash denim button-down, or a more oversized fit. I also love a heavier weight denim shirt jacket. To avoid looking too dated, when selecting a denim button-down I advise against light wash or super lightweight denim button-down shirts that wrinkle easily.
Personally, I love the look of denim on denim and like styling a denim button-down with jeans of a similar wash and loafers. I think in the summer, a darker wash denim button-down with white trousers and sandals is a super chic look.
White Button-Down Shirt Outfits
A slim fitting white button-down shirt can be a valuable wardrobe addition. For my corporate girlies, a crisp white button-down shirt will take you far! For something traditional but with a twist, I think this silky button-down is fun. I also love this more frilly option from Sézane. For some sparkle, this top is so fun!
For a corporate environment, pair your white button-down with a skirt or trousers. For the weekend, a white button-down also looks effortlessly cool with your favorite pair of denim! Pop a relaxed sweater over top (with the cuffs and collar exposed) for a preppy moment.
Blue Button-Down Shirt Outfits
A nice neutral alternative to white is a light blue or striped blue button-down shirt. While this can typically read more corporate, I think a light blue cotton button down paired with denim can be a chic monochromatic moment.
Feather Trim Button-Down Shirt Outfits
For something party ready, you can’t go wrong with a feather trimmed button-down! Style with a velvet midi skirt, a sequin skirt for holiday season, or your favorite chic trousers. This is one of my favorite button-ups, I always get compliments when I wear it!
Linen Button-Down Shirt Outfits
In the summertime, a linen button-down is a must! A classic white linen button-down pairs great with denim shorts or white pants. I also love the look of a striped linen button-down shirt over a swimsuit at the beach, or layered over a tank and shorts.
Linen is super lightweight and breathable and just feels quintessentially like summer. I prefer to buy my linen button-down shirts a size up for an oversized fit, or sometimes even a men’s shirt!
Printed Button-Down Shirt Outfits
I’ve been seeing so many fun printed button-ups lately, and think they’re a perfect way to infuse personality and color into an outfit! From subtle patterns to bold prints, style with your favorite denim or trousers. I think a vibrant silk or satin button-down shirt can also be fun for the fall and winter.
Button-Down Bodysuit
The ultimate button-down hack is the button-down bodysuit! For a super crisp and streamlined look, a bodysuit is the way to go. Layer under a suit jacket or blazer, or wear alone with your favorite jeans without worrying about keeping your shirt tucked in. Couldn’t be easier!
Shirt Jacket Outfits
The shirt jacket trend is a nice hybrid between a true button-down shirt and a jacket. For in-between seasons (think fall and spring) a shirt jacket is a great option to add style and warmth. Wear over a tee shirt or tank! I love that you can style it unbuttoned or buttoned up.