Most of us have at least one white button up shirt in our wardrobe. While it is a pretty universal closet staple, most of us don’t rock this classic, and highly versatile piece as much as we should, keeping it on the back-burner only to be worn on job interviews and other events that call for corporate attire.Well, that doesn’t need to be the case anymore!
Check out three totally new and fresh ways to wear your favorite white button down.
Look 1: Update your casual look
We’ve all worn a white button down under a sweater before, but why not throw one OVER a sweater for an updated take on this classic, preppy look. Graphic sweaters with cartoon images or fun animal prints are everywhere, so why not play one of those up by throwing it under your fave white shirt (unbuttoned of course). This look is great for work or to play up your casual weekend wear and is incredibly easy to pull off. My only tip here is to stay away from anything bulky since it’s going to be hard to fit the shirt sleeves over, but other than that have fun finding sweaters to mix into this look.
Shirt: T by Alexander Wang Cotton Poplin and Pique Button Down Shirt ($220); Sweater: 3.1 Phillip Lim The Break Up Pullover ($480); Jeans: 7 For All Mankind Boyfriend Jeans ($305); Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Martini Studded Loafers ($170); Bag: MICHAEL Michael Kors Sloan Quilted Clutch ($228); Belt: Saint Laurent Classic Rive Gauche Belt ($425)
Look 2: Incorporate into Formal Wear
White shirts don’t have to stop at work-wear or business attire, they can totally work themselves into your more formal occasions just as easily and, in my opinion, it creates a fresh, crisp take on dressing up. Try taking your formal skirts (maxi or mid-length/pencil are best, but that doesn’t mean you can’t rock a mini either) and pair with a sexy bra/bra-top/cami underneath for some added flare (and sex appeal!). I would suggest unbuttoning the shirt a little lower than normal and/or rolling the sleeves so the look doesn’t get too stuffy. Pair with your fave jewels, platforms, and clutch and you’re ready to take on any holiday party or formal affair.
Shirt: T by Alexander Wang Cotton Poplin and Pique Button Down Shirt ($220); Top: Thirty Four Diciples Lace Strappy Bra Top ($43); Skirt: Etro Beige/Black Velvet Skirt ($1,490); Shoes: Christian Louboutin Daffodile Platform Pumps ($995); Bag: Rare London Fringe & Chain Trim Clutch ($22); Necklace: William Cheshire Lariat Libertine Necklace ($575)
Look 3: Wear as a dress
You may want to steal your bf or bff’s shirt here or invest in a men’s shirt to give you the oversized fit and length to pull this off, but no matter how you go about getting your hands on one, you’ll want the extra length for this look. Yes, I know there is such a thing as a shirt dress made specifically for women to achieve this look, but I happen to like the raw edginess that comes from borrowing or investing in a men’s shirt. Since it’s getting cold out, pairing this with tights or leggings is pretty essential, but that doesn’t mean you’re limited here – there are a ton of colorful and printed options that you can rock out in. Try pairing with jackets and blazers to vests and sweaters, or even rock out solo. My only suggestion here is to definitely belt this look – the over sizing is great for length, but not necessarily great for girth. If you’re shirt is on the larger/slouchier side, belting is a must because you’ll get lost in the look and/or look sloppy.
Shirt: Comme Des Garcons Patchwork Shirt ($469); Blazer: River Island Black Blazer($72); Vest: DKNY Grey Flannel Faux Fur Vest ($400); Bag: Etsy Leather Saddle Bag ($135)
So ladies, have fun incorporating those white button downs into a variety of looks! They’re totally versatile and look great on everyone so try something new – you’ll be surprised at what you come up with. Would you try these looks? How do you wear your white button downs? Share with us in comments!
Xoxo,
Emiko
Emiko Vaughn is a personal stylist and wardrobe from Cleveland, OH. She currently owns and operates personal styling company Lageson & Vaughn with her business partner, Kirsten Lageson.
Find her here:
www.emikovaughn.com
twitter.com/emikovaughn
pinterest.com/emikovaugh
Written by Sabrina Alexis