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It is one of the most humble pieces in any wardrobe and possibly the most iconic. The white button-down shirt is a fashion pillar that transcends trends. Timeless, easy to wear and infinitely adaptable, it’s the answer to almost every dressing scenario I can imagine.
Every morning, part of getting dressed is asking myself how I want feel. Comfortable? Polished? Hot? Cool? Sporty with white sneakers? Female? The white button-down shirt says yes to everyone. More than anything, it’s easy to use, easy to style, and always feels good. Submitting to a daily uniform has become one of the small favors I do for myself, which is why I don’t mind the ever-growing row of pristine button-down shirts hanging in my closet.
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A brief history of the white button-down shirt
Brooks Brothers claims the title of inventor of the button-down collared shirt, but it was Coco Chanel who introduced the silhouette to women’s fashion in the 1940s. On her runway, the once masculine staple is decidedly feminine: cinched at the waist, highlighting shape and structure.
From there, the white button-down shirt secured its place in fashion history. Think Audrey Hepburn riding a scooter through Rome roman holidaysDiane Keaton’s androgynous turn in Annie Halland Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s impeccable ’90s minimalist uniform. Each woman interpreted it differently, but they all made it seem timeless.
The T-shirt’s enduring appeal lies in its infinite versatility. There is the natural artist: oversized and with his sleeves rolled up. The minimalist: half up and with the neck open. The coastal muse, wrapped in a swimsuit, sun-kissed and undone. And of course, the off-duty elegance of wearing it unbuttoned at the end of the day, glass of wine in hand.
What to Look for in the Perfect White Button-Down Shirt
A great white shirt looks simple, but the construction is what makes it a durable piece. Fabric, fit and finish influence how you wear, wash and cover your body. Here’s what to keep in mind when purchasing your all-time favorite.
Fabric
Start with what you want it to feel like.. Look for natural fibers whenever possible – they breathe better and age beautifully.
- Cotton poplin: Crisp and polished – ideal for work days or when you want that structured “just ironed” look.
- Linen: Lightweight and breathable, perfect for warm weather or worn over a tank top. Accept a little wrinkles (it’s part of the charm).
- Silk or Tencel: Adds drape and movement for a softer, elevated feel.
- Oxford cloth: Slightly heavier and textured, giving it that borrowed-from-the-boys appeal.
Fit
The best white button-down shirts should rub, not cling. When in doubt, choose a size larger for comfort and roll up your sleeves to keep the look intentional, not sloppy.
- Classic: Fitted to the waist to tuck into pants or skirts.
- Relaxed or oversized: The modern favorite: it looks just as good tucked in with denim as it does untucked over swimsuits.
- Cropped or square: A newer proportion that combines perfectly with high-waisted pants.
Details
Small decisions make a big difference.
- Buttons: Mother-of-pearl or tonal buttons look raised; Avoid anything shiny or plastic-looking.
- neck: A structured collar maintains its shape; a softer one feels effortless.
- Hem: Curved hems are flattering when tucked in, while straight hems give a more architectural line.
- Back fold: Adds subtle shape and comfort across the shoulders.
Opacity
The perfect white shirt shouldn’t require a spare tank top. Hold the fabric up to the light; If it’s paper thin, pass it on. Opt for slightly thicker cotton blends or double-weave bedding that remains opaque while still feeling airy.
The 9 best white buttons
We’ve done the work (and a lot of clothes) to find the perfect ones. Each of these editor-picks has earned a permanent place in our own closets—pieces we reach for again and again, season after season. From crisp cotton classics to relaxed linen blends, these are the white button-down shirts we wear, love, and wholeheartedly recommend.
How to save with a white button
Some of my favorite button-down shirts are secondhand and I literally borrowed them from the guys. I like to start in the men’s section to achieve a silhouette that is both modern and classic. Look for men’s Oxford shoes or natural fiber linen shirts. Check for wear on collars, buttons and armpits. A slightly oversized fit always looks intentional, especially when paired with pants or slim fits. And you can almost always find slightly worn or even new options of the above shirts on Poshmark or eBay if you prefer the thrill of the online hunt.
How to Keep White Clothes Bright and Crisp
If you’ve ever seen your once-white shirt turn a dull gray or, worse yet, stain, you’re not alone. Treat spills immediately (I swear by this stain remover) and wash whites separately to prevent color transfer. Adding a wash booster or oxygen-based bleach from time to time helps maintain that fresh, bright feeling year after year.
To dig deeper, check out our guide on how to keep white clothes white (it’s easier than you think).
The shirt you can wear forever
Every time I put on a white button-down shirt, I’m reminded that style doesn’t have to be complicated. The right shirt does it all: it goes from getting coffee to going out to dinner, feels good on the skin and somehow always suits the mood. It is the definition of ease and proof that the best pieces are usually the simplest.
This post was last updated on October 31, 2025 to include new insights.
