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When it comes to wardrobe staples, a white, button-up shirt is about as classic as they come. The crisp, poplin top has been a mainstay throughout fashion history, a favorite of style icons including Katherine Hepburn and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Today, the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Katie Holmes are regularly seen in a button-down of their choice for the same effortless ease. Suffice it to say, every closet needs one (or more than one, in our opinion) and there is no better time like the present to stock up. No matter what season, the white shirt is a mainstay for layering during the chillier months (they look great under a blazer or crewneck sweater) or as a standalone piece on warmer days.
Vogue’s Favorite White Button-Ups:
- The Essential Button-Up: Theory fitted shirt, $195
- The Silk Button-Up: Vince silk-blend slim-fit blouse, $325
- The Oversized Shirt: Cos oversized tailored shirt, $99
- The Stylish Tuxedo Top: J.Crew Garçon tuxedo button-up shirt, $118
- The Chic & Collarless: Chloé tonal stripe button-up shirt, $1,850
- The Boxy Cropped: Hommegirls boxy cropped shirt, $195
- The Classic with a Twist: Bottega Veneta compact cotton shirt with knots, $1,600
- The Satin Alternative: Toteme gathered satin shirt, $590
Our definitive guide of best white button-up shirts includes all the greatest hits—and then some. You’ll find tried-and-true Oxfords, of course, but if you are in search of variety, we’ve got that too. Looking for something minimalist-meets-cool? Grab an oversized, borrowed-from-the-boys take that is worn-in to perfection. Got uniform dressing on the brain? A collarless style will be your sure ticket to success. And as any fashionista knows, designer remixes on the white button down means you’ll find everything from cropped variations to fashion-forward trims, plus the look du jour—remixed tuxedo styles, a welcome alternative for modern evening looks when paired with a black trouser.
Since there is an overwhelming assortment of styles—where fit, fabric, silhouette, and price are all considerations to bear in mind—consider this our holy grail of options. Below, we’ve selected the best white button-up shirts at every price and style. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe or simply in the market for a new white shirt (you can never have too many!), get back to basics with these 42 best white button-up shirts.
Crisp Classics
Slim-fit, Oxford shirts are a no-fuss, style staple. These are the ones that are easy to tuck into trousers, jeans, and skirts—essentially able to be paired with everything. They hug closer to the body, making for a more tailored appearance. Think of them as the perfect base to wear under blazers, knitwear, and more. The Row is always a sure investment and you can’t go wrong with mainstays from Theory and Polo Ralph Lauren. Plus there are plenty of affordable options from Mango and Alex Mill.
Borrowed From the Boys
On the street, celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence and Zoë Kravitz can’t get enough of them, and neither can we. We’re talking about oversized shirt, the loose and relaxed counterpart of the classic white button-up. Whether you keep things baggy and wear yours open with low-slung jeans and Vans, or prefer it tucked into a tailored pant with a ballet flat, this laid-back silhouette has endless styling possibilities. Grab a few to keep in rotation, from Anine Bing’s relaxed cotton to the exaggerated collared version from Cos.
The Tailored Tuxedo
You might think of the tuxedo shirt as an item reserved for men’s formalwear or black-tie events, but designers are taking these classic button downs to the next level for women with stylish results. For instance, Kallmeyer’s version features a self-tie that can be left undone or knotted at the neck. Bib-front detailing adds texture and a clean touch, while contrasting, black buttons also give these shirts a little extra pizzazz, like those seen on Dolce & Gabbana’s or J.Crew’s timeless shapes.
All in the Details
The essential, white button-up shirt gets some serious updates thanks to some of Vogue’s best loved, contemporary designers of the moment. It can be as subtle as the asymmetric cut from House of Dagmar or the dainty, metal cufflinks finishing Róhe’s button down. Bottega Veneta plays with knotting, while a seemingly basic style from Simon Miller, reveals a sexy surprise in the back. It’s subtle yet impactful details like these that will keep your wardrobe feeling fresh.
With the Band
No collar? No problem. Consider one of these grandad-collar blouses for a minimal take on the white shirting style. The clean, crisp neckline can be paired with everything from high-waisted jeans to wide-leg trousers, and makes a great backdrop to play with statement bijoux. We are lusting after the modern, utilitarian takes from Khaite, Co, and Chloé, but for a looser, bohemian approach look to Buck Mason’s puff-sleeved alternative or a linen version from Pangaia.
Corporate Tops Go Cropped
For those who might scoff at the idea of cropped shirting, hear us out. These shirts have all the same benefits and styling qualities as your typical button-up, but with a little less fabric, making tucking in or showing skin all the easier. Petite body types also will find solace. A few of our favorites include the mainstay, boxy version by Hommegirls and TWP’s shrunken top. Price-friendly variations on this idea include a crisp take from Banana Republic and a studio-to-street style from Alo Yoga, that could be paired over your workout set for a post-sweat brunch.
The Poplin Alternative
Looking for an alternative to the classic, cotton shirt? Your search is over. We’re stocking up on satin blouses from Toteme and Veronica Beard in an ecru hue for a modern take, which can also be worn for a night out. Other brands to watch, such as Heirlome and Another Tomorrow, are offering fresh twists in silks or sustainable viscose. And when all else fails, Vince’s slim-fit, silk-blend or Loro Piana’s perfect, cream button down are office-approved, no matter the time of year.
