10 Modern White Button-Down Shirts to Add to Your Closet

There’s nothing wrong with incorporating the season’s hottest trends into your closet; after all, of-the-moment looks help keep things exciting. But at the end of the day, basics serve as the foundation of a strong wardrobe. A prime example of a well-rounded collection of everyday essentials? A black blazer, blue jeans, and—of course—the humble white button-down. When it comes to the latter, one could argue this top is the single most versatile piece out there, given it pairs perfectly with virtually anything you already own. On that note, keep scrolling to read more about the many merits of a white button-down shirt, from its long history in fashion to the new iterations keeping the look fresh.

Why the White Button-Down Is So Iconic

Marie Antoinette was one of the first people known to bring white cotton pieces into focus, having worn it for her “Marie Antoinette in a Chemise Dress” portrait, painted by Madame Vigée-Lebrun in 1783. Her white billowy robe, dubbed the robe de gaulle, caused quite a stir as many believed posing in her nightwear was a risqué move. Though it may have raised a few eyebrows, the moment led to a boom in the cotton industry.

During the Victorian era, the white shirt was a symbol of wealth. As such, the term “white-collar” was born, describing working men who donned white-collared shirts, whereas those in the manual labor field wore blue.

In the ’40s and ’50s, the white cotton button-down took Hollywood by storm, as the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Ava Gardner made the piece a fixture in their wardrobes. Decades later, style muses like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Princess Diana flocked to the wardrobe essential.

Women also made it acceptable to wear a white button-down in an androgynous manner. Patti Smith paired it with a skinny tie; Diane Keaton layered it underneath a waistcoat in Annie Hall; Uma Thurman teamed the top with black trousers in Pulp Fiction. Celebrities soon made the case for wearing the wardrobe essential to more formal affairs, as well. For instance, in 1998, Sharon Stone gave it the red carpet treatment, rocking her husband’s Gap style with a Vera Wang midi skirt at the Oscars.

White Button-Downs in 2025

While an oversized, slouchy fit will always remain a classic, designers are breathing new life into the perennial white button-down, serving up fresh (and in some cases, unexpected) versions of the piece. For a silhouette with a sultry spin, brands like Aritzia and Everlane have designed midriff-baring cropped button-downs—because there’s nothing wrong with showing a little skin, particularly during the dog days of summer. Pair the look with a breezy floral midi skirt or low-slung Bermuda shorts, if you’re feeling daring. 

For a more refined look, consider a white button-down with billowy, puff sleeves. The look exudes sophistication and is bound to be a mainstay in your 9-to-5 wardrobe: Simply balance out the voluminous shape with a form-fitting pencil skirt. In a similar realm, many labels are enlivening otherwise simple white button-downs with romantic bows (this under-$100 Line & Dot iteration caught our eye), making the top a solid contender for an evening out. The look is also ideal for balancing out tailored trousers. 

When it comes to fabrics, cotton is best for year-round wear, as the material is suitable for various temperatures and, in turn, various seasons. It’s breathable in the summer and can provide insulation to keep you warm during the colder months (of course, layering with materials like wool and fleece is best in teeth-chattering weather). Another option on those sweltering hot summer days: A linen white button-down. With its moisture-wicking properties and open weave design, the natural, lightweight fabric will keep sweat at bay.

How to Style a White Button-Down

Though a button-down may seem pretty straightforward in theory, a few smart styling techniques will reinvigorate the age-old silhouette. For example, try only fastening one or two of the middle buttons for a cool-girl look. Wear it solo or layer it over a tank rendered in a fun pattern or punchy color. Never overlook the power of tucking in your shirt, either, as it has the potential to transform your whole outfit.

For an effortlessly chic styling approach, opt for just one side of the button-down tucked into your bottoms—this requires very little effort with maximum results. Something as simple as rolling up the sleeves can instantly zhuzh up the silhouette, too.  

Still seeking more outfit inspiration? For an unexpected way to wear the classic look, skip pants and wear your white button-down as a makeshift dress, adding shape by way of a belt. An outsized, roomy button-down may also give your beach cover-ups a run for their money. Leave the blouse unbuttoned over a one-piece or bikini for the perfect boardwalk look. And of course, when in doubt, you can never go wrong with a white button-down and jeans mash-up.

The Best Modern White Button-Downs to Shop

Whether you don’t own a trusty white button-down or are eager to incorporate some fresh iterations into your wardrobe, check out our edit of must-have styles below. With its infinite styling potential, the piece is well worth the splurge.