This Basic May Be "Boring," But These 10 Outfits Are Proving Otherwise

A button-down might be considered a "boring" basic, but the styling tricks the fashion set is applying to it lately certainly are not. When it was warmer, it seemed like everyone on the map was wearing classic button-down shirts with a variety of their summer pieces, even swimwear. While the button-down is certainly not new, the fashion set has been taking it to new heights with pops of color, matching sets galore, and unique layering.

Ahead, you will be able to see some of the coolest styling inspiration for incorporating this menswear basic into your seasonal wardrobe. In addition, you can shop all the button-downs worthy of copping. From outfits that are office appropriate to ones that are perfect for a night out on the town, these no-fuss styling tricks are the fresh updates you didn't know this timeless basic needed.

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(Image credit: @noore)

Contrast something classic like a button-down shirt with something trendy like a corset for a truly dynamic outfit. 

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This look is proof that you don't need much to partake in this simple trend. The subtlety of only buttoning those top few buttons will instantly breathe new life into any of the pairs of jeans sitting in your closet. 

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

From minimalists to maximalists, this styling trick just won't quit. Go bold and contrast two bright colors. 

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Even a basic white button-down can receive the chicest of upgrades, and all you'll need is a pair of printed pants.

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

There are plenty of beach cover-ups that exist, but a button-down is a fashion favorite. We recommend you try it for your next trip to the water.

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(Image credit: @greceghanem)

Matching button-down sets seemed to be the uniform for the summer, and we 100% approve. Pair with a bright-colored tank and sandals, and you're out the door with an easy yet stylish ensemble.

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(Image credit: @aimeesong)

No, this is not your average button-down shirt, and that's exactly why we like it. Take note of this look and liven up an otherwise simple ensemble with dainty jewelry and strappy sandals.

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Running errands? Your tank and slacks will immediately become more elevated with a button-down thrown over. Leave the buttons loose and roll up your sleeves to keep it casual.

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(Image credit: @basicstouch)

You can't go wrong with the classic "workwear" outfit—a button-down tucked into trousers with a belt. The sneakers and baseball hat relax the look.

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Linen is the ultimate comfortable material, and there are no exceptions with button-downs. Opt for an easy outfit with a linen top and skirt. 

This piece was published at an earlier time and has since been updated. Next, Hi, 2022—Since You've Begun, We Haven't Really Taken Off These 14 Pieces

Associate Fashion Editor
Yusra Siddiqui is an editor who resides in New Jersey but bounces between the suburbs and NYC. (She's a Jersey girl at heart.) After interning at Who What Wear in 2019, she found her way to the team after graduating from LIM College in 2022 with a fashion media degree. She's also spent time writing and working for publications such as Fashionista, Coveteur, and Nylon, but she always knew that Who What Wear was where she was meant to be. When she's on the job, she's perusing runway shows, analyzing the latest thing fellow Gen Zers are up to on the internet, and sharing what she can about the modest-fashion market. You can also catch her dabbling in entertainment, talking about the costume choices of the latest Netflix series or diving deeper into how the plotline affects the viewers in a myriad of ways. Lastly, she likes to create content for Who What Wear's TikTok. Her personal time is spent doing similar but also different things—deep diving into almost every new TV show (Bridgerton, Gilmore Girls, and Stranger Things are favorites), planning her next local getaway (whenever that may be), and reading the latest Emily Henry or Sally Rooney novel in one sitting.