If there's one item I've been reaching for on repeat this season, it's an oversized button-down shirt. Cool, effortless, and polished, the reliable wardrobe staple is a classic yet manages to remain fashion-forward. I've spotted the low-key basic in fresh and modern iterations all over the fashion crowd on Instagram—most popularly seen in breezy silhouettes and a whole host of trending colours.
Another reason I'm enamoured with the versatile basic (aside from the fact it leans into my coastal-grandma aesthetic perfectly) is that it's super easy to wear. Aside from the gym, I can't think of a single circumstance where wearing one would be inappropriate. Easy to dress up or down, it exudes an effortless elegance whether you style it with linen shorts or a silk slip dress. Moreover, it's super accessible. It's easy to find practically everywhere and at every price point.
If you're looking for a little inspiration on how to style one this season, I'm sharing a whole host of cool and fresh button-down outfit ideas below that are anything but boring.
A light-blue button-down is the perfect casual topper over a basic white tank top and black slip skirt. Finish with a straw bag and chic black slides for a look that's casual yet polished.
Shop the look:
For casual summer looks or put-together office outfits.
Celebs like Kendall Jenner and Naomie Harris love a vest-and-jeans look.
A black midi skirt is the base of so many outfit formulas.
A great pair of leather sandals will be an investment you can rely on year after year.
For a casual weekend look, lean into loose and relaxed silhouettes, but keep it looking chic by going for a white palette from head to toe.
Shop the look:
A crisp white shirt works for every occasion. With jeans, slick tailoring, layered over dresses or as a beach-side cover-up.
Monochrome white outfits look so expensive.
Over loose jeans are a must this season.
Dad sneakers are still as fashionable as ever.
For an of-the-moment touch, try a button-down in this season's buzziest hue—orange. Let the pop of color do the talking and keep the rest of your outfit in neutral tones.
Shop the look:
This tangerine dream will brighten every wardrobe.
The comfortable elastic waistband makes this outfit even better.
Zara's pieces always look expensive.
I love the contrast of a miniskirt paired with a longline button-down. Just add ballet flats to complete your look.
Shop the look:
If you're investing in a shirt you'll love forever, Ralph Lauren is always a great place to start.
A plain white tee will always come in handy.
The suede fabric adds a contrasting texture.
These will never go out of style.
The great thing about a button-down is that it's just as good for an evening out as it is for a day at the beach. Throw it on over a bikini and wear it as a cool cover-up.
Shop the look:
For a beach side cover-up - the bolder the better.
The high-waist bottoms are so good.
Add a casual touch to a silky slip dress by wearing a loose and relaxed button-down nonchalantly over it. Finish with chic mules.
Shop the look:
The perfect throw-on piece.
The blue and brown combination is so good.
You'd never guess these heels are high street.
A matching shirt-and-shorts set always looks so effortlessly chic. Style on top of your swimsuit for cool vacation vibes.
Shop the look:
A classic style that is so timeless.
Co-ord's are the easiest way to get dressed.
The low scoop back adds a retro feel.
A loose white linen shirt will be your go-to in the summer. It looks fresh when paired with of-the-moment relaxed pants.
Shop the look:
Cool and comfy. The perfect combination.
The slouchier the better.
One of the easiest and simplest ways to style your button-down is with straight-leg jeans and cool sneakers—easy and effortless for a day in the city. Add cool accessories to add interest to your look.
Shop the look:
I'm obsessed with the asymmetrical hem.
I'm a sucker for a wide-leg jean.
The inner sole pop of colour makes these even better.
Take your look from the beach to the bar with the addition of a vibrant pink button-down and chic high-waisted black pants.
Shop the look:
Vibrant pink and slick black compliment each other perfectly.
This style can be worn on the beach and beyond.
Comfort and style go hand in hand.
Up next, 15 Outfits That Define Each Summer Aesthetic - Coastal Grandma to Princesscore.
-
I've Done The Research—These 21 Trench Coats Are The Epitome Of LuxurySpring into action.
-
7 Chic Pieces That I Swear Take My Spring Outfits From Subpar to SophisticatedBring on the compliments.
-
I'm Pausing On My White Tees—This Spring Top Is So Good With JeansA new staple.
-
Here's Everything Our Editors Wore to Paris Fashion WeekStraight from the streets of Paris.
-
With Jeans, Dresses or Skirts, Fashion People Are Using This Styling Trick to Make Every Outfit an 11/10So simple, so chic.
-
Red! Leather! Sheer! Here Are the 8 Chic Shirt Styles Set to Rule Spring 2025 DressingThe styles on "top".
-
Sambas Aren't a Trend Anymore—They're a Staple: Here's How to Wear Them in 2025They've become a classic.
-
The Timeless Shirts Londoners Are Willing to Line Up and Down the Street ForThe perfect button-down shirt does exist.
