Need help getting out of a style rut? It may be time to go back to basics.
A wardrobe is only as strong as its foundational pieces, and a plain white button-up shirt is as classic as they come. While it may not seem as exciting as a vibrant dress or printed jacket, the versatile staple is a sartorial chameleon, working well for everything from a day at the office to a trip to the beach, depending on how you style it.
That’s why we tapped five PEOPLE writers and editors to show us how they dress up (or down) white button-ups to best suit their style. Below, shop lightweight layers from tienda online, Madewell, Quince, and more brands, plus jeans, shoes, and accessories inspired by their looks starting at $10.
White Button-Up Shirts
Madewell Oxford Oversized Button-Up Shirt
People
“I won’t lie, my hair was dirty the day I took this photo, so I planned my outfit around the headband I was wearing for an event. I left the bottom of this oversized button-up unbuttoned and tied the ends together, tucking them into this high-waisted denim skirt, and added a belt for texture. I landed at this sort of boho-chic vibe, which I styled with my favorite Tory Burch espadrilles and the Strathberry bag I’ve been toting around this summer.” — Madison Yauger, shopping editor
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Cotton On Haven Long-Sleeve Shirt
People
“This exact photo was taken during my time in grad school, but it’s an outfit I’d still wear today… and tomorrow… and for the foreseeable future. Mixing preppy and sporty pieces is one of my favorite things to do, so I paired my (immediately) seasons-old Zara button-up with straight-leg trousers with a polished front seam. I also threw on a baseball cap (probably to hide my grown-out roots!) and some sneakers to make it feel less uppity and more casual for walking around the city and sitting in class.” — Alyssa Grabinski, senior shopping writer
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Ipmq Button-Down Shirt
People
“When dressing for New York City summers, my wardrobe revolves around the three Cs: cute, cool, and comfortable. This button-down-centered outfit checked all three boxes. My best layer was lightweight enough that I wasn’t left melting into a pool of sweat at the end of the day, and the wide-leg jeans felt breezy and relaxed. Couple those breathable basics with a trendy pop of color, and I had myself a no-brainer outfit I’ve since returned to time and time again.” — Averi Baudler, senior shopping writer
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Madewell Oversized Button-Up Shirt
People
“I was testing out a silk mini dress and wanted to style it with more than just jewelry, which is how I landed on this classic white button-down. I chose to wear it open with the sleeves rolled up to create a more relaxed feel (plus it kept my arms covered from the sun). I also threw on my favorite pair of Reebok sneakers to complete the casual yet chic ensemble.” — Rylee Johnston, shopping writer
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Quince Cotton Gauze Long-Sleeve Shirt
People
“I own two white button-downs, which may seem silly, but they are completely different shirts — one is fitted and better for styling with jeans and trousers for the office, while the other (pictured above) is loose and airy to throw on over swimsuits. I packed it for my trip to Greece (and it didn’t wrinkle!) to wear with linen shorts, my favorite sandals, and a sunhat for a day at the beach. Since it was very hot that day, I simply left it open and tied a knot with the two sides of the shirt.” — Alex Nelson, associate editorial director
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