“You can, of course, do both, but pairing it with a pair of jeans and sneakers or loafers is a great casual everyday look.'Ĭontributing writer Jessie Quinn has a bachelor's degree in fashion journalism.

“I don’t really consider button-downs as a dressed-up look,” Charnas explains. since 'layering is both practical and gives off the perfect laid-back vibe with intention.' Additionally, you can “pair it with a matching short or layer it over your favorite slinky top,” says Bonbrest. To dress down a button-down, you can start by leaving it untucked and unbuttoned. See which styles captivated us and are our reigning bests ahead.

We searched every nook and cranny of the internet to find the best button-downs for everything from formal, office-appropriate style to casual and cool. Since it is truly an icon, button-down shirts aren’t that hard to come by-but finding the best takes some work, and we put in the hours. “They can be dressed up or worn casually and are a perfect fit for any occasion.' Nothing how the versatility of a button-down is its biggest asset, Bonbrest says it will 'secure a long-lasting place in anyone’s closet, no matter your style.' “Button-downs are a timeless, classic look,” says expert Max Bonbrest. It’s truly one of the most adaptable pieces and something every person needs in their closet. The button-down is a garment that has historically been considered a staple in workwear wardrobes, but in more recent decades, it’s become a go-to for more casual looks, and has been worn in place of an open cardigan, as a dress, and has even moonlighted as a bathing suit cover-up-not to mention all of its more formal uses, too. We are all about an item of clothing that works overtime as both a casual and dressy look, and button-down shirts are exactly that.

Blood red button down shirt