When I think of a wardrobe essential that never goes out of style, it’s the white button-down. They’re insanely versatile, universally flattering, and work all year round. Style a linen one for summer with denim cut-offs, or a more crisp poplin style or silk one for the office in the fall.
A good white button down is one of those items in your closet that can be dressed up or down. Plus, you can always count on it for a solid outfit when you feel like you have nothing to wear. And no matter your style, you can go super classic and simple in your silhouette, or try something more trendy with puff sleeves, exaggerated lapels or unique detailing.
Cute Ways To Wear A White Buttown Down Shirt
I truly believe every closet should have at least one go-to white button-down. And go from there with adding in ones that work with your personal style. I like to have a linen one in my closet for summer. months. They’re great over cut offs or even a swimsuit. A crisp cotton poplin one is nice to have all year round for easy styling.
I truly love my super oversized button down. It pairs nicely with straight leg jeans or biker shorts. Making it really easy to dress up or down. Here are some of my favorite cute ways to wear a white button-down shirt for any and every occasion (and season!).
And I know the age old question, what are we doing about tucking in our button downs? Are we doing a Millennial front tuck, or a half tuck? For me, I love a full tuck, it feels more polished, or fully untucked for that undone relaxed look. I personally avoid the Millennial front tuck on anything that’s super long, the long tail behind you just feels really dated. Instead, try a half tuck with one side of the shirt tucked in. This to me feels more updated for today!
White Button Up Shirt Outfit Ideas
Casual Outfits With Denim
One of my go-to ways to style a white button down is to go more casual. Since my everyday is a lot more casual and not very 9-5, I like to dress down this closet staple that tends to be a bit more preppy and polished. The way I like to do this is to pair it with denim and Converse for cooler temps.
Or for warmer weather, denim shorts and sandals. It’s also a great shirt to wear to transition from winter to spring. Pair with a bootie and shorts to deal with that in-between weather.
These casual outfits with denim work best with cotton, linen, or poplin fabrics. I’d leave the silk button-downs for more dressed-up outfits or business casual looks.
This combination also works with leggings. Pair with a sneaker and leggings and try a longer more oversized button down for a cool and casual way to style this staple. You could also do a faux leather legging with a loafer or ankle bootie for something more casual and cool for fall.
Spring And Summer Outfits With A White Button Down
My linen button down shirts are my favorite to wear for spring and summer. The fabric is light and breathable which is so important in the hot and humid south. I also reach for my short sleeve version ones too for dealing with warmer weather.
Fabric is key here because this can really make or break your mood if you’re sweating in polyester instead of choosing cotton or linen. This is why you may need a handful of white button downs for your closet as one may not do it all. Although a good place to start would be a plain white cotton one that’s on the lighter side. Easy to layer and wear for any season.
For spring and summer, I always like to reach for lighter fabrics and so a cotton button up is perfect. If your outfit is calling to wear a white shirt with it, try a button-down to add some texture and interest versus a simple white t-shirt.
Oversized White Button Down Outfit
One really fun option to have is an oversized white shirt in your closet to play with. Whether you want to wear it open over things like biker shorts and a tank, or pair it with a straight leg jean, this is a closet staple for me. I love the boxy oversized fit. It feels cool and effortless. If you’re worried about an oversized white shirt overwhelming your body, just roll up the sleeves a bit to show off your wrists. It’s a great trick!
White Button Downs Under Dresses
I adore this combination. it reminds me so much of my private school days wearing a button down under our plaid jumpers. This look is so cute and feminine and oh so very cool and chic. I personally love it with a mini like these two looks. Add a combat boot, or cool loafer to make the outfit feel even cooler. For a more feminine take, add a beautiful stiletto or mary-jane.
When pulling off this trend, opt for a sleeveless dress if you can and one that has a nice open neckline of some sort. And I’d probably suggest a more poplin and structured style shirt to wear under it so it holds up to the layering. This is also when you can have some fun with a cool sleeve. A puff sleeve paired with a cute mini dress, so fun.
Fall And Winter Outfits With A White Button Down
I find myself grabbing my silk button-downs or poplin-style ones for fall and winter over my more relaxed cotton ones. And definitely leave the linen ones in the closet for the cooler months. Layer your shirt under utility jackets or blazers with your favorite jeans for easy pulled-together outfits. I still adore this outfit from many many years ago with a khaki utility jacket layered perfectly with a classic white button down. Leaving it untucked gives it a more casual feel to the outfit.
White Button Downs For Summer Weekend Outfits
If I was heading out for a summer date on the weekend, I would wear a white button down tucked into a great pair of jean shorts. It’s put-together, feminine, and timeless. I also almost always pack this outfit for when I am heading out on a warm-weather vacation. Add great summer accessories to make it feel a little more special too.
The linen button-down can make multiple outfits and several uses for a trip. From wearing with your shorts as an outfit for exploring, or as a coverup for the pool or beach. I love how classic a white button-down tucked into denim shorts, a block heel sandal and a belt look together. This look will always be a closet favorite!
You can also pair that linen button-down with matching linen pants or even linen cargo pants like these for a very casual and cool look for hot days. This is the perfect beach coverup outfit to pack for the pool or warm vacations.
Fall and Winter Outfit Layering With A White Button Down
I’m getting a little help on this category from Fashion Jackson who always nails a great classic look. Why? Because I despise this on my own body. So there are precisely zero photos in my over a decade of blogging attempting this classic combination. It’s not for me, it makes me feel much bigger than I am, and it’s just not a combination I feel good in.
This is your reminder that you don’t have to try every trend out there. That doesn’t mean this is a bad outfit, it’s just not one I like for myself.
However, I think it’s such a cute way to style a white button-down for winter. Layer a crisp white button down under a crew neck sweater or vest for a layered look. The collar and cuffs that are ever so slightly exposed add a bit of structure to a simple sweater. This combination is ideal for winter styling to the office, casual weekend looks or a date night fashion-forward outfit when paired with a cool leather jacket and heels.
You can even just add a sweater over your shoulders for added texture and interest. I love doing this in the fall for a little warmth and interest to your looks.
How To Dress Up A Button Down Shirt
A white button-down can feel very classic and simple. But they are great for dressing up for a night out when paired with the right things.
- Pair with a fancy pencil skirt like a sheer or embellished one
- Accessorize with jewelry from necklaces, bracelets and earrings
- Cinch an oversized button up with a nice belt at the waist
- Add a stylish blazer
- Wear with a satin pant or trouser
Your white button downs are super versatile, from the office, to denim cut offs, and even out to date night or nicer events. It’s just all about using the right fabric. Avoid linen if dressing up your button down and instead reach for a cotton or silk. This will make a big impact in your overall look.
White button downs are a closet staple. As you can see, there are so many ways to wear them. From everyday casual combinations to nicer events, and all four seasons.
