The classic button-down shirt is a staple in every wardrobe, regardless of gender and personal style.
It is one of the most versatile pieces in our closet that can easily be dressed up or down. We can wear it with dress pants to work, a print skirt for a night-out and denim shorts for a casual day at the mall.
Today, however, we share some surprising and unconventional ways to wear this closet essential.
Here's how you can add a twist to your button-down style:
With an Evening Dress
Have a turquoise sequined dress or skirt you'd like to wear in the daytime? Dress it down by wearing a white button-down on top.
Belt It
Leave your button-down un-tucked and cinch your waist with a belt to add definition. You can even try wearing a luxury belt bag, which is becoming trendy again.
Layering Trick
Got a sleeveless dress you can't wear to work because of the dress code? Layer a button-down shirt underneath the dress and complete the look with a pleated skirt!
To make the look work, choose one solid color for your layering pieces.
Tie Like a Crop Top
Make your office-appropriate look party-ready in a snap with this clever trick. Simply unbutton your Oxford, tie the ends together, and you're ready for a night out.
Reclaim an Oversized Button-Down
An oversized piece can easily be turned into a high-fashion item. Make this slouchy top exciting by accessorizing with statement shoes, a bright handbag and funky sunglasses.
Off-Shoulder
Button your shirt up midway and let your sculpted shoulders take the spotlight. You can also tie it into a crop-top while wearing it off-shoulder.
You can have both shoulders or only one side showing.
Tucked High-Waist
High-waist bottoms are trendy now, so go ahead and match this closet staple with a retro piece. Tuck your shirt all the way in for a form-fitting style that lets your high-waist bottoms take center stage.
Half-Tuck It
Make your office staple wearable when out and about by tucking only one side of the shirt and leaving the other half out. Wear it with jeans and nude heels.
Rock this Look
Pair your typical Oxford with a leather vest or flared-leg leather trousers for an easy rock-and-roll vibe.
Wear it Like Markle
The Duchess of Sussex had a playful take on a classic white button-down by wearing it under a blazer dress.
Daytime Chic
Another styling trick for an oversized button-down is to wear it with black leggings for a sleek look. Accessorize with a beret and brogues for an effortlessly chic look.
Shopping Tips
For a figure-flattering button-down, choose the right fit based on your shape. For small-busted women, shop around for Oxford shirts with pleats, ruffles and large pockets in front. Also, go for soft fabrics than a stiff silhouette.
For large-busted women, opt for printed button-downs. When wearing solid colors, button from the chest area.
Steer clear of snug or tapered button-down shirts when you have a wider midsection. Embellished collars and puffy sleeves will draw the eyes away from a rounded tummy.