Fashion

10 Ways To Style A Classic White Button Down

by Emily McClure

White button downs will forever be one of my favorite items in my closet, no matter how my style changes over the years. There are dozens of ways to style a white button down shirt, and that's exactly why they're a wardrobe staple for so many people. From casual to chic, these shirts can really do it all. With the right styling, white button downs can be provide balance or standout on their own. They can even provide the perfect backdrop for your more glamorous pieces. By being a basic color, they allow more trendy pieces to stand out without being boring on their own. By pairing more simplistic pieces with trendy items, you create a balance that is refreshing, no matter what your personal style.

Still think white button downs are boring? Remind yourself of how the pieces can act as a transitional item for your outfit. Whether you are headed to the grocery store or for a night out on the town, think about adding a white shirt to your outfit. Wondering how to style these versatile shirts? Here are a few of my favorite ways to style a classic white button down.

1. Casual Glamour

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Gray Coat, $40, Chic Wish | Slim Leg Jeans, $10, H&M | Boots, $90, River Island | Snap Bag, $1,045, Valentino | Rings, $6, Forever 21 | Black Hat, $480, Zimmermann

I'm obsessed with this casual, yet sophisticated outfit. If you're looking to dress up an everyday outfit, try adding studs and metallic accents.

2. Playful Burgundy

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Jean Shorts, $50, River Island | Black Socks, $10, Soho Girl | Dr. Martens Castel, $90, 6pm | Valentino Bag, $2,075, Forzieri | Gold Necklace, $19, Etsy

Don't want to give up wearing shorts just yet? Don't! Pair your high waisted shorts with knee-high socks and military boots for a grunge-inspired outfit.

3. Sweater Weather

White Button Down Shirt, $171, Halsbrook | Gray Sweater, $30, Black Five | Army Green Trousers, $152, Shopbop | Michael Kors Tote, $365, Stylebop | Ring Set, $6, Forever 21 | Ray Ban Sunglasses, $115, Bergdorf Goodman

Amp up this traditionally preppy style by pairing your button down with a chunky cable knit sweater and loose pants.

4. White Out

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Rag & Bone White Jeans, $175, Net-A-Porter | Pink Patent Leather Pumps, $585, Profile Fashion | Alex And Ani Earrings, $13, Nordstrom Rack | Michael Kors Watch, $275, Bloomingdales | Ray Ban Sunglasses, $150, Net-A-Porter | Leather Belt, $169, Shop Bazaar

Toss traditional style rules out of the window by wearing all-white after Labor Day. Add accents of pale nudes and browns to break up the monochromatic outfit.

5. Colors Of Fall

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Mustard Yellow Skirt, $575, Vivienne Westwood | Michael Kors Boots, $495, Net-A-Porter | Chanel Wallet, $4,000, 1st Dibs | Kate Spade Watch, $175, Lord and Taylor | Ray Ban Sunglasses, $200, J. Crew

It's all about cobalts and camel colors this fall, according to J.Crew stylist, Gayle Spannaus. Mix and match these colors for a totally #ontrend outfit.

6. Soft Punk

Madewell Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Black Leather Jacket, $59, Maurices | Denim Jeans, $239, Stevealan | Strappy Bralette, $45, Top Shop | Black Flats, $50, Zara | Gold Earrings, $32, Lulu Avenue

I love pairing daring bralettes under more sophisticated pieces. It gives your outfit an edgier vibe.

7. Overall Chic

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Army Green Jacket, $23, Rotita | Boyfriend Denim Overalls, $25, Style Moi | Valentino Heels, $945, Brown Fashion | Soft handbag, $1,935, Balenciaga

Loving the overall trend? Take it a step further by pairing your favorite pair of overalls with a classic button down and edgy accessories.

8. Ballerina Hues

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | Ballerina Skirt, $7, Shein | Manolo Blahnik Shoes, $595, Barneys | Cream Tote, $49, Lulus | Onyx Cuff, $14,840, Ylang23 | Ray Ban Sunglasses, $143, REI

This outfit is perfect for any woman who wants to channel her inner ballerina. This chic skirt paired with the button down is a great mix of classic style with a glamorous edge.

9. Everyday Collegiate

Long Sleeve Shirt, $75, Madewell | 7 For All Mankind Jeans, $78, Far Fetch | Cream Sneakers, $490, Sneaker Boy | Crossbody bag, $75, Neiman Marcus | Gold necklace, $45, Banana Republic | Kate Spade Watch, $175, Zappos Couture | Vida Fede Earrings, $600, Forzieri

Running late to class? Try pairing your favorite button down with modern sneakers and sleek accessories for an updated collegiate style.

10. Uptown Style

White Button Down Shirt, $171, Halsbrook | Black Pants, $80, River Island | Michael Kors heels, $219, 6pm | Michael Kors Blue Tote, $279, Tradesy | Gold Necklace, $10, Silkfred | Round sunglasses, $13, Yes Style

This look is just absolutely sexy. Be the fabulous lady in charge you are with these sleek pants and lace-up heels.

Images: Pixabay (1); emily-mcclure/Polyvore (10)