A white button-down shirt might seem like just another basic, but trust me, it’s the MVP of any wardrobe. Classic, versatile, and always stylish, this piece can take you from work meetings to weekend brunch, beach days to date nights without skipping a beat. (you’re about to see how)
Think of your white button down shirt as a blank canvas. Whether you dress it up, tie it, tuck it, or layer it, the possibilities are endless. If you’ve ever wondered how to style a white shirt in new and exciting ways, you’re in the right place!
Today, I’m sharing 10 fresh ways to wear a white shirt and 48 outfit ideas to help you get the most out of this closet staple.
Ready to learn how to style a white shirt? Let’s do this!
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This post was originally shared in January 2023 and updated on March 2nd 2025.
Why Every Closet Needs a White Button Down Shirt:
If there’s one wardrobe essential that never goes out of style, it’s a white button-down shirt. It’s classic, versatile, and works for every season, making it one of the hardest-working pieces in your closet. Whether you’re aiming for polished, casual, trendy, or even beachy vibes, this piece delivers every time.
Still not convinced? Here’s why a white shirt deserves a prime spot in your wardrobe:
✅ It’s the ultimate chameleon – You can dress it up for a business meeting, wear it casually with denim, or throw it over a swimsuit at the beach (if it’s linen). One piece, endless possibilities!
✅ It works year-round – Whether layered under sweaters in the winter or paired with shorts in the summer, a white shirt adapts to every season seamlessly.
✅ It pairs with everything – From jeans and leggings to skirts and dresses, a white shirt is one of the easiest pieces to style. (Seriously, try to find something it doesn’t work with!)
✅ It makes any outfit look put-together – Even when you’re in a hurry, a white shirt has a way of making any look feel polished, even if you just threw it on last minute.
⭐️ The best part? Learning how to style a white shirt is easy, and once you master a few styling tricks, you’ll never run out of outfit ideas. Ready to see just how much you can do with this wardrobe staple? Let’s dive into some chic white shirt outfits!
10 Tricks To Wear A White Shirt: The Styling Tips That Will Help You Create More White Shirt Outfits!
If you’ve ever felt stuck wearing your white shirt the same way over and over, you’re not alone! The trick isn’t just having a white button-down, it’s knowing how to style a white shirt in ways that make it feel brand new every time. (and it’s possible!)
For this post, I’m using a white button-down shirt (my favorite!), but feel free to recreate any of these looks with another color if white isn’t your thing. The beauty of button-down shirts is that they go with almost anything, work in every season, and can be dressed up or down depending on your style and the occasion.
I also try to use basic wardrobe staples in these outfits for two reasons:
🎯 Because that’s pretty much all I own!
🎯 Because I want you to be able to create your own version of these looks using pieces you already have in your closet.
This isn’t just about styling a white shirt. It’s about seeing its full potential and making the most out of the clothes you already own. So let’s get creative and dive into 10 ways to wear a white button-down. Plus outfit ideas to keep you inspired!
1️⃣ Dress It Up: Chic & Sexy Ways to Wear a White Shirt:
Who says a white shirt is just for casual outfits? With the right styling, it can be your go-to piece for dressier occasions. Whether you’re pairing it with a statement skirt, adding some sparkle, or creating a subtly sexy vibe, a white shirt can do it all.
✨ The Classic Chic Look:
A white button-down always looks stunning with bold skirts. Whether it’s a midi, pleated, or A-line style, pairing your shirt with a standout skirt instantly makes your outfit feel polished.
Want to take it up a notch? Add pearls, a sleek ponytail, and strappy heels. It’s a match made in heaven.
⭐️ Pro tip: the skirt can be replaced with statement pants too!
🔥 Add a Touch of Sexy:
Yes, a white button-down can look sexy! Here’s how:
✔ Unbutton it slightly and wear a lace cami or bralette underneath.
✔ Pair it with jeans and high heels for a sleek, date-night look.
✔ Go bold with OTK boots or a fitted pencil skirt for extra drama.
⭐️ Styling Tip: If you want to make it even dressier, tuck it in, roll up the sleeves, and add delicate layered jewelry. Here are 2 ways you can do this:
2️⃣ How to Wear a White Shirt for Work: Chic & Polished Office Looks
We’re shifting gears from sexy and bold to chic and polished. Because a white button-down shirt can do it all!
It’s a workwear classic for a reason: polished, professional, and endlessly versatile. But let’s be real, just because it’s a staple doesn’t mean it has to be boring.
Here’s an easy outfit formula to make styling your white shirt for the office easy:
White Button-Down Shirt + Statement Layer + Tailored Bottoms + Bold Detail
✔ Statement Layer: Blazer, long vest, structured jacket, or printed piece
✔ Tailored Bottoms: Trousers, jeans, pencil skirt, or structured midi skirt
✔ Bold Detail: belt, colorful shoes, neck scarf, bold lipstick, or statement earrings
Here’s the outfit formula in action 👇🏼
⭐️ And the best part? These office-ready looks work year-round!
Swap boots and blazers for lighter fabrics in spring and summer, and layer up when it gets chilly. Plus, don’t underestimate the power of small details!
A sleek bun, a bold lip, or eye-catching shoes can completely transform your white button-down shirt outfits.
3️⃣ How to Wear a White Shirt: Tie It Instead of Buttoning It!
One of my favorite ways to wear a white shirt is by tying it instead of buttoning it. It’s such an easy trick that instantly makes your outfit look more intentional and stylish.
⭐️ The best part? You can tie a white button-down shirt over almost anything—skirts, dresses, jumpsuits, jeans—you name it! This simple styling hack helps you create more outfits with the pieces you already own.
✨ Style Tip: Try tying your white shirt over a sleeveless dress or jumpsuit, and suddenly, that dress looks like a skirt or the jumpsuit looks like pants! This is a fun and effortless way to maximize your wardrobe without adding extra pieces.
Whether you’re keeping it casual with sneakers or dressing it up with heels, this styling trick will give your white button-down shirt a whole new life!
4️⃣ How to Wear a White Shirt as a Cover-Up (one of my faves!)
This is my favorite way to style a white shirt as a full-time traveler who lives out of a carry-on! I swear by my linen white button down shirt.
A white shirt outfit idea that works for any beach or pool day is using it as a stylish cover-up. It’s lightweight, breezy, and takes up zero extra space in your bag.
Wear it open over your swimsuit, tie it at the waist over a one-piece, or pair it with linen shorts for an effortless chic white shirt outfit that goes from the beach to lunch in no time.
Plus, it adds a touch of sun protection while keeping your look polished!
Is Your Closet Holding You Back? Let’s Fix That!
If you love the idea of styling a button down shirt but struggle to create outfits you actually want to wear, your closet might be working against you. The good news? I’ve got something to help!
Take the Closet Score Quiz to find out if it’s time for a wardrobe refresh. Plus, when you take the quiz, you’ll get access to a free email course (based on your results) that walks you through cleaning out your closet, defining your personal style, and building a wardrobe that makes getting dressed easy.
Get started by answering these 7 questions! I’ll help you with what’s next :)
5️⃣ Casual White Shirt Outfits for Spring & Summer:
A white button-down is one of the best pieces you can have in your spring and summer wardrobe. It’s light, breathable, and works with just about everything. (I strongly recommend a linen one!)
Whether you’re styling it with relaxed pants, skirts, or shorts, you can create easy, stylish outfits with minimal effort. Here are some of my favorite casual white shirt outfits for warm weather:
White Linen Shirt + Relaxed Pants: The Breezy, Chic Look
If you want to look put together but feel comfortable (yes, please!), pair a white button-down with wide-leg trousers or linen pants. This combo is timeless, and easy to wear. Perfect for running errands, traveling, or grabbing coffee with friends.
💡 How to style it:
✔ Tie your white shirt at the waist for a more defined silhouette.
✔ Pair with flat sandals, espadrilles, or white sneakers for a casual touch.
✔ Add fun accessories like a headband, crossbody bag, or layered necklaces.
White Linen Shirt + Skirts & Dresses (Effortless Feminine Vibes):
One of the easiest ways to maximize your wardrobe is by layering a white button-down over a dress or pairing it with almost any skirt. It creates an effortless, feminine vibe that’s perfect for brunch, a casual date, or a summer getaway.
💡 Why this works:
✔ Tying a button-down shirt over a dress makes it look like a skirt, giving you twice the outfit options.
✔ Works with midi skirts, mini skirts, and dresses – just adjust the knot!
✔ Sneakers keep it casual, while espadrilles or flat leather sandals dress it up.
White Linen Shirt + Shorts/Mini Skirt: The Ultimate Summer Staple
For those hot summer days, pairing a white linen button-down with shorts is the easiest way to stay cool while looking stylish. Whether you go for printed shorts, high-waisted denim, or linen styles, this combo is a warm-weather classic.
💡 How to make it stand out:
✔ Tuck or tie your white shirt to add shape.
✔ Choose bold prints or neutral tones to mix up the look.
✔ Add a straw hat, woven bag, or fun sunglasses for extra personality.
6️⃣ Bring Your Linen Button Shirt For Your Next Trip!
As a full-time traveler who lives out of a carry-on, my linen white button-down shirt is easily one of the most worn pieces inside my travel wardrobe. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll notice I love tying it with a front knot. It’s such an effortless way to switch things up!
A linen white shirt is my go-to because I mostly travel to warm destinations, and it’s lightweight, breathable, and dries quickly. Whether you’re sightseeing, at the beach, or heading out to dinner, this piece works for any occasion.
Vacation-Ready White Shirt Outfit Ideas:
✅ Layer it over a jumpsuit or a maxi dress for an instantly put-together outfit.
✅ Pair it with flowy skirts or breezy pants for an easy, chic vacation look.
✅ Use it as a swimsuit cover-up—it’s stylish, practical, and perfect for packing light.
If you’re looking for a piece that maximizes your travel wardrobe, a linen white button-down shirt is a must!
7️⃣ More White Shirt Outfit Ideas: Layer It Over Camis for an Effortlessly Chic Look!
A white button-down shirt doesn’t always have to be buttoned up! I love layering it over a white cami or t-shirt for a relaxed, effortless look. It instantly makes the outfit feel lighter and more laid-back, don’t you think?
This is also my go-to trick when I’ll be spending time outdoors. It adds just enough coverage without feeling too hot. Instead of constantly reapplying sunscreen, I just throw on my white shirt to protect my shoulders.
8️⃣ White Shirt and Jeans Outfit – A Timeless Combo That Never Fails!
Pairing your white button-down with jeans is one of the easiest and most timeless outfit formulas you can rely on. Whether you’re going for a casual or elevated look, this combination works year-round!
If you want something effortless and laid-back, try rolling up the sleeves and leaving your shirt slightly untucked. For a polished look, tuck it in completely and add a belt to define your waist.
You can also switch up the denim; light wash for a relaxed vibe, dark wash for a sleek appearance, and black jeans for an edgier feel.
Accessories make all the difference! A hat and boots can give off a chic, fall-inspired look, while heels and layered jewelry instantly dress things up. No matter how you style it, this white shirt and jeans outfit is a wardrobe essential you’ll reach for again and again.✨
9️⃣ How to Wear a White Shirt with Leggings:
Pairing a white button-down shirt with leggings is the perfect way to achieve a chic yet comfortable outfit. Whether you’re running errands, working from home, or heading out for coffee, this combo strikes the perfect balance between effortless and put-together.
These leather leggings are gorgeous, flattering and have lasted me over 6 years!
1️⃣0️⃣ Layering a White Shirt for Colder Months!
A white button-down shirt isn’t just for spring and summer—it’s a must-have for fall and winter layering too! Whether you’re wearing it under sweaters, cardigans, or even vests, this piece adds a polished and put-together look while keeping you warm.
Plus, it creates dimension in your outfits without adding bulk. Here are some of my favorite ways to layer it for chilly weather.
A classic trick that instantly makes any casual outfit look more refined! Let the collar and hem of your white shirt peek out from underneath a cozy knit for a sophisticated touch.
🧥 With a Long Cardigan – If you love effortless minimalist style, this is a go-to look.
A white button-down tucked into high-waisted jeans (or left untucked for a relaxed vibe) works perfectly under a neutral cardigan. It’s cozy, comfortable, and easy to dress up with ankle boots or pumps, and you can dress it down with white leather sneakers.
🖤 Layered Under a Puffer Vest:
A quilted vest is a great way to add warmth without feeling too bundled up. This is a great fall outfit idea when you want something practical yet stylish. Wear it with dark-wash jeans and stylish loafers for a polished everyday look.
Check out these next 👇🏼:
- 7 timeless pieces you can wear all year!
- 30 pieces – 100 outfits! Create your first capsule wardrobe
- Everything you need to know about outfit formulas
How to Choose the Perfect Button-Down Shirt for Every Season!
A button-down shirt is a capsule wardrobe essential, but the right fabric, fit, and color make all the difference! Here’s how to pick the perfect one for every season:
🌸 Spring: Lightweight & Breathable
- Fabric: Cotton or linen for breathability
- Fit: Relaxed for layering
- Colors: White, beige, soft pastels
☀️ Summer: Cool & Effortless
- Fabric: 100% linen to stay airy and dry fast
- Fit: Oversized for styling versatility
- Colors: White, stripes, light neutrals, fun prints
🍂 Fall: Cozy & Layerable
- Fabric: Structured cotton or soft flannel
- Fit: Fitted for layering, oversized for a casual vibe
- Colors: Earthy tones (olive, camel, burgundy, navy)
❄️ Winter: Warm & Chic
- Fabric: Thicker cotton or brushed fabrics for warmth
- Fit: Great under sweaters and coats
- Colors: Black, navy, plaid, jewel tones
Care Instructions For A White Button Down Shirt:
A white button-down shirt is a wardrobe staple, but keeping it crisp and bright takes a little extra care. Here’s how to maintain it:
✨ Prevent Underarm Stains: If you sweat, apply a stain remover to the underarm area before every wash. Let it soak for about 10 minutes before tossing it in the washer. This helps prevent yellowing and keeps your shirt looking new. If you didn’t sweat, you can skip this step!
⭐️ Natural Brightening Hack: For an extra refresh, add ¼ cup of baking soda to your whites. It’s a natural, chemical-free way to keep fabrics bright without harsh bleach.
These simple steps will help your white button-down stay spotless and last longer! 😊
Final Thoughts On How To Style A White Shirt:
If there’s one piece in your closet that always delivers, it’s a white button-down shirt. It’s one of those items that can be chic, effortless, or cool-girl casual. All depending on how you style it.
You’ve seen how I wear mine on repeat (because when I love something, I really love it 😆). Whether you’re tying it in a knot, layering it over a cami, or pairing it with leggings for travel days, this shirt just works.
So if you don’t have one yet, what are you waiting for? And if you do, maybe it’s time to experiment with a few new looks!
Thanks so much for hanging out with me today :) Feel free to leave any questions in the comments!
XO,
Aimara
PS: take the closet score quiz today! By simply answering 7 questions, I can assess the state of your closet and tell you exactly what to do next. It’s free and it takes 20 seconds!
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
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Very fun & creative! You look like you are having fun too.
I had no idea there were so many different ways to style a white shirt!!!
You are so creative and down to earth ??
Love that about you! Thanks for keeping it real.
XX
Kandi
You are the best!!! Thanks for sharing your ways ??
Love this…
so many great ideas. Who knew? seriously….
LOVE THISSSS!!!!
I missed these posts Aimara!
Love what you did here. I only have one white button down shirt and I never know how to style without looking boring, so this is definitely useful for me :)
Have the best weekend!
love,
Natalie