There are few wardrobe essentials as timeless or versatile as one of the best button-down shirts for women. That’s why it’s maybe the only closet essential that can be worn as effortlessly at the beach as in a job interview. Its best-known pairing is a tailored blazer, but it also makes for the perfect accoutrement for denim, miniskirts, and swimsuits. There’s no job too big (or too small).
If you’re just starting to build your collection, start with a pick as classic as they come: a humble white cotton button-up. From there, neutral colors (light blue, soft yellow) and classic prints (thin stripes, playful florals) up the timeless ease; elsewhere, play around with your silhouette by opting for something oversized or cropped. Find every single button-down shirt your wardrobe needs in our editor-curated collection below.
The best button-down shirts for women, at a glance
Old Navy Oversized Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt
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Madewell Straight-Hem Shirt
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Ruisin Super-Soft Wrinkle-Free Button-Down Shirt
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The white button-down shirt
Start with the basics: a white button-down. No matter your preferred size, shape, silhouette, or style, keep one of these options within reach for days when you’re not feeling particularly inspired. Whether you’re looking for a casual shirt to half-tuck into a pair of slouchy jeans or a crisp collared topper for a printed skirt, your tried-and-true white button-down shirt will be there for you every step of the way.
The oversized button-down shirt
If you like a relaxed, borrowed-from-the-boys look, go oversized. Forgo the tailored back seams, the shrunken length, and slim-fit silhouette; instead, opt for a slouchy and casual shirt that feels as though you swiped it straight from the closet of your most stylish man. A relaxed fit will feel like throwing on your favorite T-shirt, be it a soft and cozy flannel shirt or a preppy, classic Oxford.
The striped button-down shirt
There’s a reason stripes are considered a neutral: They can be worn effortlessly with solids and prints alike. Go classic with a cornflower blue and white mix, or try something a little preppier with pink or light green. Simply pick your favorite shirt silhouette and grab one more in a stripe; you’ll thank us later.
The cropped button-down shirt
Whether you’re wearing a pair of high-waisted flares, styling a full skirt, or simply want to balance out your look by showing a little sliver of skin, go cropped. A short button-down shirt offers an untucked, shrunken, boxy look that makes the style more manageable—and a little more trend-forward.
The romantic button-down shirt
Although a button-down shirt traditionally gives off an air of menswear, these flowy, romantic styles have a softer feel. Ruffled collar, pintucked designs, embroidered eyelets, puff sleeves—it’s all about the details for these airier takes on the ultimate wardrobe must-have.
The tuxedo shirt
Inspired by men’s dress shirts, tuxedo shirts add black-tie elegance to everything from denim cutoffs to, well, black-tie affairs. One of our favorite after-hours looks is a crisp broadcloth tuxedo shirt with either tailored pants or a taffeta skirt—a timeless, elevated look that will never go out of style. For off-duty days, try a casual striped or plaid button-down with a playful tuxedo bib for something a little extra special.
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