8 classic white button-downs your closet needs — and how to style them

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There are a lot of topics I can passionately rant about to no end. Justin Bieber? Check. The O.C.? Check. The importance of a white button-down? Definitely check. Priorities…

I have very strong opinions about classic white button-downs. The closet essential has become a staple in my wardrobe over the years and after a lot of trial-and-error, I’ve been able to identify which styles and brands are truly the best. Ultimately, it comes down to your fabric choice (linen for summer, duh), length and, last but not least, fit. If it feels too snug around your arms, that’s a no-no. Your crisp white button-down should almost always have a slightly oversized fit, while also feeling tailored. Finding the perfect button-down is an art, and I’ve got it down pat.

A crisp and clean shirt adds just the right amount of chic to any outfit, and is fundamentally the most universal silhouette a person can own. No matter your size, shape, gender or your personal style, a button-down goes a long way in everyone’s closet for almost any occasion.

What I love the most about the classic style is that it acts as a blank canvas. It’s not rocket science to style a white button-down in a number of different ways (i.e. tucked into jeans, paired with shorts, worn with a skirt to the office). But what most people don’t realize is that a button-down can be transformed into a totally different shirt.

From off-the-shoulder to a wrap top and a one-shoulder style, check out the video above to see how you can get the most out of your white button-down. Whether you’re sick of staring at the same shirt in your closet or you’re in the mood for a little fashion experiment, shop the best-selling classic white button-downs below and try my style hacks above!

Shop: Gap Boyfriend Linen Shirt, $47.99 (Orig. $59.95)

Credit: Gap
Credit: Gap

Shop: Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Poplin Button-down, $21

Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon

Shop: Everlane Linen Relaxed Shirt, $58

Credit: Everlane
Credit: Everlane

Shop: Treasure and Bond Drapey Classic Shirt, $69

Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon

Shop: Equipment Essential Silk Blouse, $230

Credit: Nordstrom
Credit: Nordstrom

Shop: Daily Ritual Long-Sleeve Relaxed Button-Down Shirt, $32.50

(Save an extra 20 percent at checkout with code ITK20)

Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon

Shop: Tommy Bahama Boyfriend Shirt Cover-Up, $68

Credit: Nordstrom
Credit: Nordstrom

Shop: UNTUCKit Bella Shirt, $78

Credit: UNTUCKit
Credit: UNTUCKit

If you enjoyed this story, you may like reading about 8 underrated white T-shirts on Amazon to perfectly match your wardrobe.

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