Button-down shirts are a closet staple and a must-have for your capsule wardrobe. This shirt is endlessly versatile—wear it tucked or untucked, to a casual or formal setting. With a playbook of outfit ideas, you’ll always have a solution to your clothing conundrum.
Read on to learn how to style a button-down shirt in 10 unique ways.
From straight-leg jeans to a preppy midi dress, these tops look stunning with every piece. Here are 10 cute ways to wear a button-up shirt.
A simple knot in a white button-down is a classic way to elevate an outfit. It’s casual yet stylish and perfect with any bottom, including high-waisted jeans, shorts, and pencil skirts.
Knotting a button-down turns an ordinary shirt into a crop top or quickly gathers an oversized shirt for a better fit. Still too baggy for your taste? Shrink your shirt on purpose before you tie it.
Use a flexible top to create a smooth, clean knot—we like Everlane’s soft and silky button-downs. Grab one from ThredUp for wallet-friendly prices, starting at $6.99.
An oversized shirt tucked into slim trousers makes a stunning silhouette. Adapt this look to the formality of the occasion with different bottoms—dress it up with slacks or down with high-rise distressed jeans.
Bold accessories work well with this style, adding a contemporary edge. We recommend a pair of statement sunglasses and a colorful bag.
While any shirt 1–2 sizes above your usual works, we adore Madewell for this outfit because many of their tops have an oversized fit. Thrift Madewell’s high-quality button-down shirts on ThredUp, starting at only $7.99.
This is one of our favorite button-down shirt styles—elegant, comfortable, and timeless. Layer a button-down shirt under a dress for an effortless preppy aesthetic that’s endlessly customizable.
For the dress, choose plunging or crew necklines and any hem length, from mini to maxi. Personalize your outfit further by picking a unique button-down—we like a traditional fitted shirt or puffy bishop sleeves.
Banana Republic button-downs are ideal here. This brand has eye-catching patterns and various attention-grabbing sleeve styles. Find these striking tops on ThredUp, starting at $6.99.
A structured button-down makes a great impromptu jacket. Layer one over a fitted top, like a bodysuit or camisole, for a modern look. Or try a plaid button-down over a polo shirt for major prep vibes.
We can’t decide which bottom is better for this outfit: skinny jeans or a pleated skirt. Dark wash skinnies are a sleek contrast to the button-down, but the pleated skirt creates a more flowy silhouette.
Old Navy is a great choice here, offering a wide range of plaid styles and colors (definitely one of our favorite preppy brands). Thrift one of these high-quality shirts on ThredUp, starting at $7.99.
Button up that shirt, tuck it into a sleek pair of work pants, and throw on a blazer for a semi-formal, office-ready outfit. This look is perfect for a job interview, friend’s wedding, or classy dinner party.
Opt for modest, dressy footwear like simple heels or ballet flats. Use a muted color palette of black, white, navy, and tan to keep this outfit semi-formal and sophisticated. Or if you’re headed to a party with a bolder dress code, incorporate some jewel tones like a rich purple blazer.
H&M’s button-downs are slim and slide perfectly under a tailored blazer. Find hundreds in different sizes and colors on ThredUp, starting at $7.99.
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Looking for a fresh take on the button-down? Wear a fitted button-down bodysuit with a leather skirt for a party or date night outfit. Complete this attention-grabbing look with a leather jacket and slouchy boots.
For two quick variations, try swapping in a high-waisted denim skirt or an A-line plaid skirt. A defined waist is the key to this look, so use ThredUp’s Waist Size filter to find a well-tailored bottom.
Thrift this outfit today on ThredUp, where you can find high-quality button-down bodysuits starting at $8.99.
Colorful, patterned button-downs make a playful 1970s-inspired outfit. Pair this with high-waisted flare jeans—for extra vintage vibes, grab ones with vibrant embroidery. Add strappy heels or ankle boots to complete the look.
Wear the shirt tucked to show off your jeans or untucked for casual party vibes. We also love it unbuttoned over a silk camisole.
J.Crew has an outstanding selection of striking, patterned button-downs. Find these colorful tops on ThredUp, starting at $5.99.
An oversized shirt makes an excellent mini dress. Add a waist-defining belt, a pair of leggings, and suede ankle boots or knee-high slouch boots for a cute, casual outfit. We recommend this one for quick coffee catch-ups, brunches, and cozy date nights.
Gap offers button-up shirts that are ideal for this outfit. They’re well-structured, with a straight silhouette that cinches perfectly with a belt. Thrift one on ThredUp from $6.99.
We had to include this classic outfit: A white button shirt with straight-leg jeans. This simple yet stylish look suits countless occasions, from quick weekend errands to drinks with friends.
Leave it straightforward and minimalist, or accessorize with statement sunglasses and colorful pumps (we love cherry red). Don’t forget your bag: A leather shoulder bag or crossbody bag are perfect.
ThredUp has thousands of classic white button-downs, from LOFT to Land’s End. Browse dozens of materials and cuts and find the perfect one, starting at $5.99.
Yes—button-downs are excellent for warm summer days, too. Grab a short-sleeve button-up and pair it with high-waisted shorts for a clean, breezy look. Go for a classic white shirt and denim combo, or add some lively color with pink and green pastels.
Throw on retro sneakers and sunglasses, and you’re ready for lunch out, thrifting with friends, or even a brisk hike.
Our top choice? Nordstrom has plenty of sleek short-sleeved button-downs that are ideal for summer adventures. Discover your next closet staple on ThredUp, starting at $8.99.
There are so many ways to wear these versatile shirts that it’s nearly overwhelming. But we’ve got your inspo covered—get tips on how to wear button-downs with ThredUp’s Style Chat.
Ask our chat for fashion advice and outfit pairings, and generate eye-catching looks using your favorite wardrobe staples. Adjust and refine the outfit with prompts like “More Casual” and “Less Colors.” Once you’re satisfied, browse relevant suggestions from our inventory, fill your cart with any pieces you don’t have, and make them your new go-to’s.
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