I Think This One Basic Can Make Any Outfit Look Chic and Polished

There are a few key items that I think live up to the status of true wardrobe staples. And yes, the white button-down shirt is one of said items. I truly believe this tried-and-true basic can make any outfit feel chic and polished given its timeless and versatile nature. This season, I am specifically focusing on more relaxed cuts and forward details like exaggerated sleeves for a modern feel. Fun fact: My mother actually just bought one of these looser blouses (this style from Madewell), and it’s currently a go-to in her rotation.

With all that in mind, I took a gander through the IG feeds of some of my favorite fashion follows to uncover a few standout looks featuring the trusty white button-down shirt. I’m talking everything from a sleek layered ensemble to a cute denim outfit.

Keep scrolling for more, including a smattering of shopping inspiration in case you want to add a fresh piece into your rotation.

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

This ensemble is modern and classic with the relaxed white button-down, black trousers, and boots. The layered jewelry is also a nice touch.

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

The white blouse and cropped trousers are simple yet incredibly polished. If it's slightly chilly where you are, consider tying a sweater around your shoulders for extra warmth.

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(Image credit: @aimeesong)

It's all about the sweater-vest this season. Toss one over your favorite white blouse for a trend-forward vibe.

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

A longer white blouse is quite chic worn open with a crop top or bandeau and high-waisted, distressed jeans.

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(Image credit: @aysha.sow)

A trench coats brings such a timeless feel to an ensemble, including this look with the blouse tucked into jeans.

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(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Want a more casual yet current vibe? Wear your white button-down over a tank with loose jeans and sneakers.

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(Image credit: @mon.agar)

Go for the layered look with your shirt over a tee and a leather blazer on top of that. The pleated trousers enhance the silhouette even more.

Next, check out more outfit ideas.

Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.