If there’s one piece of clothing I always have in rotation, it’s a classic white button-up shirt. It’s timeless, goes with everything, and can work throughout all of the seasons—a triple win!
Although there are numerous ways you can wear a white button-up shirt, the wide variety of options can feel somewhat overwhelming. Do you pair it with shorts? With a skirt? Over a swimsuit? (Hint: it works with all of those clothing items.)
If you’re looking for ideas on how to style a white button-up shirt that go beyond pairing it with jeans, this post is for you. Once you start branching out a bit, you’ll quickly realize that you can’t really mess up an outfit with a white top.
Here are some of my go-to ideas for putting together a chic and effortless outfit…
How to Style a White Button-Up
White Button-Up and Denim Shorts
Pair a crisp white button-up with denim shorts, sandals, and a sun hat for an easy outfit on busy mom days. Not only is this look ridiculously comfortable, but it’s also ideal for the warmer seasons and climates (this could be your everyday summer uniform.)
If you’re craving a pop of color, add some in through your sandal choice—the pink pair I linked below would be perfect. Also, incorporating some jewelry or even just a pair of sunglasses can add more dimension to the overall feel of this outfit.
White Button-Up as a Cover-Up
There’s no denying that a white button-up shirt makes for the ideal beach or pool cover-up. Throw one on over your swimsuit and then slip into some denim or linen shorts for bottoms. Add a straw bucket hat and oversized sunnies—both which add some fun personality and sun protection.
Because you’re just using it as a cover-up, leave all the buttons undone for a chic look. This will show off your swimsuit and give the shirt more of a “dress” feel.
Also, consider buying a button-up a size or two bigger than what you typically wear if you plan on using it as a cover-up. Trust me, you’ll appreciate the extra length and room!
White Button-Up With a Maxi Skirt
If you’re looking for a way to elevate a basic white button-up, try pairing it with a maxi skirt. A denim option would be so cute to wear during the transitional seasons (either from summer to fall or spring to summer.) Style it with whatever shoes you’re comfortable in, whether that’s sandals, heels, or loafers.
I love how feminine this look is—and it scores bonus points for being versatile enough to wear from brunch to a date night.
White Button-Up With Jeans
Keep things classic by pairing your button-up shirt with your favorite jeans. This outfit will never go out of style, and it can be easily dressed up or down by swapping out your shoes and accessories.
Another perk is that you really don’t have to think about this outfit because everything matches with it (with such a great base, it’s hard to mess up!) This can offer the perfect opportunity for you to test out more vibrant and fun accessories, like a bold belt or some dangly earrings.
Tip: You can also play around with different cuts of denim, like a pair of barrel leg jeans or a distressed and slightly cropped pair.
White Button-Up With Biker Shorts
There’s no question about it—biker shorts are one of the most popular bottom options during the warmer months. And similar to a white button-up top, biker shorts are comfortable and highly versatile, so this duo just makes sense.
If you need an extra layer or you simply want to switch things up, wear a button-up over a biker short romper. The key is to leave the shirt unbuttoned so you achieve an effortless look (aka the “cool girl” aesthetic.)
White Button-Up With Linen Shorts
I feel like there are a lot of people who don’t love denim shorts, so they put themselves in a box of “non-shorts wearers.” If this sounds all too familiar to you, I’d encourage you to give linen shorts a try. They are sooooo much more forgiving and easy to find the proper fit of than denim varieties, and they just so happen to look ultra chic when styled with a button-up.
I’d wear this outfit for just about anything—running errands, grabbing coffee, meeting friends for lunch, happy hour, etc. It’s a fool-proof combo that you’ll reach for regularly.
White Button-Up With Linen Pants
Prefer pants? Nix the idea above and opt for linen pants instead. They’re just as lightweight and comfortable yet they offer more coverage and might be more appealing to wear from day to night. If you’re going out, style them with a simple pair of slingback heels (these are a recent fave) and a cute handbag.
White Button-Up With a Blazer
I know a blazer might not be the first thing you would think to pair with a white button-up blouse, but if you need a layer, this is a classy one. Whether you need an outfit to wear to an event or into your office, it doesn’t get much more timeless than this combo.
Style these layers with jeans or trousers (wide leg pants would be cute!) and some heels or flats. It’s easy to take the blazer off if needed—you could even throw it over your shoulders for a more laid-back look.
White Button-Up With White Jeans
There is a time and a place for a monochromatic look, and I just so happen to think that white-on-white results in a crisp and put-together outfit. This is another outfit idea that’s pretty hard to mess up since you can style any color or pattern with white.
For a seamless “starter” look, try adding a bright pair of sneakers to offer a touch of color.
White Button-Up With Leather Leggings
Last but not least, consider this white button-up outfit idea your new go-to during late fall and winter. Leather leggings are a personal favorite of mine because they offer a way to switch up your typical denim look.
Styling a white button-up with them creates the perfect base for a variety of outfits, whether you need something casual or more upscale. An option that suits both vibes? Leather leggings, slouchy boots, a white top, and a rancher-style hat.
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