There’s perhaps no more essential item for every wardrobe than a white button-down shirt. It’s a timeless closet staple that expresses both femininity and masculinity in one fell swoop, and can seamlessly transition from work to play. Whether fitted or oversized, crisp cotton or sleek silk, white button-downs boast endless sartorial possibilities—more so now that designers are revamping the classic by adding such trimmings as ruffles and pleats, even belts and French cuffs. Here are our top three ways to style this classic garment...
1. Executive Chic
For a look that takes you from day to night, tuck your white button-down blouse into a high-waisted pencil skirt. Top it off with a printed blazer to turn heads at the office. And when the clock strikes five, leave the blazer on the back of your chair and slip a chunky statement necklace over your head. Slip on a pair of pointy, patent leather booties to jazz up this edgy ensemble, and hit Happy Hour.
2. Weekend Warrior
There’s nothing better than slinking into your boyfriend’s button-down on a Saturday morning. Except maybe slinking into your own “boyfriend” button-down, instead. For a trip to the local farmer’s market, loosely tuck an oversized oxford in poplin or twill, unbuttoned as low as you can go, into boyfriend jeans—rolled up at the cuff, of course. If it’s chilly, throw on a cable-knit cardigan. Better yet, truly embrace the menswear trend by accessorizing with a printed tie, linen vest, and/or two-toned brogues.
3. City Slicker
If there’s one item that countless “street style” pics have in common, it’s a white button-down. Fashionistas know that there are myriad ways in which to style up (or down) the iconic shirt. Tuck it into a pair of leather pants for a sleek, streamlined look or tie up the tails and pop the collar for a flirty, retro feel. It looks just as effortless peeking out from behind a sweater as a sequined shift. And no one can deny the sex appeal of a white button-down buttoned up insouciantly over a lacy chemise.
A white button-down shirt can go from casual to chic in a heartbeat, which makes it a piece no wardrobe should be without.
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