How to Style a Button Down Shirt

I highlight a variety of closet staples on the blog, but perhaps the most classic piece you could own? A button down shirt (whether it’s white, blue, or patterned.)

This particular top has been around for years, but unlike most clothing items, it has truly never gone out style. Button down shirts can offer a chic and streamlined look to any type of outfit. Plus, they’re easy to dress up and down, they work throughout all seasons, and they can be worn with several different bottoms, shoes, and accessories — what’s not to love?

Whether you prefer the timeless look of a crisp white top or you’d rather style something that has a dose of color or pattern, I’m sharing a handful of ideas on how to style a button down shirt below. These outfits are all easy to replicate because they utilize pieces you likely have in your closet already. Happy styling!

How to Style a Button Down Shirt

Watch Here: What to Wear With a Button Down Shirt

A Button Down Shirt and Jeans

One tried-and-true combo that you can never go wrong with: A trusted pair of jeans and a white button down shirt. Don’t be fooled into thinking that this outfit is “boring” — it has tons of potential to wear on its own or to accessorize and spruce up with a belt, jewelry, or a fun handbag.

When it comes to jeans, any fit will do, but I’ve personally been loving the barrel leg jean trend. Combined with the more classic look of a button down shirt, the two pieces complement each other and create a well-balanced outfit.

Keep things casual on the bottom with a pair of sneakers (white sneakers are also a good option!) or dress it up with some ballet flats or heels. You could easily wear this look from a busy day of errands and meetings into a night of cocktails and dancing.

For the ultimate date night outfit, swap a plain white button down for a silky striped option, like this one. Slip into some strappy heels and add some gold hoop earrings for a flirty touch!

A Button Down Shirt and Denim Shorts

It’s always tricky to dress for those in-between months, when the weather isn’t scorching hot but it also can get chilly in the late afternoons and evenings. Consider this outfit the solution.

The duo of denim shorts and a white button-down shirt isn’t exactly a new concept, but opting for knee-high boots as your shoe of choice levels things up a bit. The boots are somewhat unexpected and offer a more “styled” feel to the overall outfit, not to mention they’re practical for transitional weather.

Too hot for knee-high boots? Swap them out for a pair of loafers. You can also add some socks for a more preppy look. I’d wear this throughout the fall months — so feminine, fun, and put-together!

A Button Down Shirt and Trousers

Trousers have been a longstanding favorite of mine when I want to wear something other than denim. They have a professional look yet they’re ultra-comfy and can be mixed and matched with so many tops, including a button down.

There are a handful of ways you could wear this combo: Tucked in, untucked, or a blend of both (as I’m wearing in the photo below!) Try this look with a longer white button down shirt so you have the option to wear it multiple ways.

Working with a cropped white button down? This is the ideal works-for-any-occasion outfit, which combines both style and comfort. These relaxed trousers have been in high rotation lately and I can’t wait to wear them with chunky knit sweaters as the weather cools off! I love that this look could work for both dressier and more laid back outings (depending on the shoes and accessories you go with!)

A Button Down Shirt and a Romper

On those days when you’re not quite sure what to wear, this is a good go-to. Start with a cozy romper (I’m obsessed with the fit of this one) before layering on a button down shirt. Keep the top unbuttoned for a cool and casual look, then add some heeled sandals, flats, or even sneakers. Note: A cropped button down is best for this outfit!

I’d wear this to grab brunch with friends, to attend a sporting event, or for any day to night outfit that’s both effortless yet elevated.

Which button down shirt outfit is your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below!