Basics: something in fashion that sounds exactly how it looks; basic. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be fashionable. In most cases, basics are usually the articles of clothing that make the outfit. In this article, we are talking about the most basic of all clothing articles: the white button-down. Read on to find four ways to style one!
1. French it Girl
A button-down styling article can not go without mentioning the pioneers of wearing one; the “French girl”. “The French girl” aesthetic is known for its simplistic, classic, and elegant take on fashion, making a white button-down a key part of their wardrobe. To style your button-down in this aesthetic, button up the shirt leaving the first 1-2 buttons undone. Then simply tuck into your favorite pair of trousers or jeans and voila! Pop on a red lip and some natural makeup and you’ll look as if you walked right out of the Louvre.
2. Under and Over
Sometimes cardigans just don’t cut it for dresses and that’s when a button-down comes into play. Going for a more beachy and baggy vibe? Simply layer over and tie in the front or leave it open to add some shape to any dress. Or if you want to have a little more fun, layer the button-down underneath. Play with different types of dresses and experiment with the sleeves and collar!
3. ‘Parent Trap’ Chic
The fashion in The Parent Trap is nothing short of iconic, giving us all of the 90s looks we love to see. But one can not mention the fashions of The Parent Trap without mentioning Chessie and Elizabeth James. While we love Chessie for her quick quips and Elizabeth James for her classic elegance, their fashions are known in pop culture. Wearing a button-up like Chessie simply means baggy and open. Wear over a tank top with jean shorts, pants, etc. Roll up the sleeves and you’ve got yourself the perfect laid-back Napa Valley ranch fit. Or pair with some neutrals and add gold accessories for a more Elizabeth James tailored look.
4. Academia Aesthetic
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: layering is key when styling a button-down! Corsets, t-shirts, dresses, whatever it is, it usually can always be layered with a white button-down. But my favorite thing to style with a white button-down is probably a sweater vest. It gives all of the academia/school/I attend Hogwarts vibes and I love it.
Basics are not typically things we run to in clothing stores or the first thing we buy, especially when we could be spending our money on much cooler pieces of clothing. But basics are crucial in building outfits and taking them to the next level! White button-downs can be found pretty much anywhere, but I highly recommend looking at your local thrift stores for the perfect baggy/oversized one at a price that won’t break the budget.