7 Classic Button Down Shirts & How to Style them for Summer
There’s something that feels so fresh and sophisticated about a crisp button down shirt in summer, so I’ve rounded up some of my favorites. Have a look at some classic shirts, each with a modern twist. Here are a few ideas on how to style them for summer!
cropped button up | slit front pants | black sandals | monogram bag
1. Cropped Hi-Low Shirt
I thought I’d start with some new and chic – this darling cropped shirt from Calvin Klein. Cropped tops have been trending lately since they look great with all the high-waisted pants everyone is wearing. I love the boxy shape of this cute button-down and how it is shorter in the front and longer in the back. The deep coral color is stunning and looks just as fabulous with these sexy slit front black pants as it does with a pair of white cropped jeans.
pink striped shirt | white tee | white linen pants | straw bag | sandals
2. Classic Striped Shirt
Every gal needs a classic striped shirt in her wardrobe, but what about pink if you are tired of blue? I fell in love with this pretty pink wardrobe staple that can be worn in many ways. Tuck it in, leave it out, tie it up, or wear it over a tee, like a summer jacket, with relaxed white linen pants.
This clever layering piece worn under white will make you look long and lean. Roll or push up the sleeves for a sporty look.
long green shirt ( similar in pink) or green shirt sandals | jeans |
3. Boyfriend Shirt
Long, oversized shirts known as boyfriend shirts have been popular this summer, and many are in cheery, bright colors. The key with this type of shirt is to wear it long over skinny pants or leggings. The look is oversize on top and slim and narrow on the bottom resulting in a slimming, chic look.
To add some interest and break up the solid block of color, I’ve popped my collar and added a cute floral sweatshirt tied around my neck. It’s just a simple detail that uplevels the overall look.
Tie Waist Shirt | red and white skirt | sneakers | straw bag
4. Tie Waist Shirt
A button-down shirt tied at the waist creates a breezy summer feel and can help hide a belly. What’s great about this slub denim one is that it comes already tied. The shirt is cut with ties, so there’s no fumbling to grab enough material to make a tie and knot. I like to wear this with shirt with white jeans or this cute nautical skirt.
The combo of a perky button-down shirt and a short summer skirt creates energy and a youthful vibe. Don’t forget some cute white sneakers!
tropical shirt (similar) | jeans | sandals ( similar)
5. Tropical Print Shirt
Summer doesn’t feel like summer without a breezy, tropical button-down shirt, and this is a good one because it is made of no-iron linen! Chico’s is famous for these shirts; I can tell you they live up to their no wrinkle claim. They’re so easy to care for.
This would also make a great vacation shirt. I like to wear it with white jeans, shorts, or capris to let that fabulous botanical print shine! Add a pair of festive straw slides, and you are ready for the beach.
red woven shirt | white shorts | denim jacket | sandals
6. Woven Shirt
Many of the shirts I have been showing you here are cotton or linen, but this one is a softer woven fabric. Please look at the link for a close-up of this super comfy red button-up shirt with the rounded hem that looks fabulous, partially tucked in or full out. (This one is technically a button-up rather than button-down, as it has no collar). It looks great with jeans or shorts, and I love to wear it with a denim jacket to make the red pop.
Eyelet shirt ( similar) | black ankle pants | sandals
7. Eyelet Shirt
Eyelet is another type of classic, summer button-down shirt. White is always popular, or you can try something more colorful like pink or yellow. I love eyelet with slightly dressy summer pants like this cropped black pair. These a great backdrop for the delicate, eye-catching eyelet.
Here are a few more fabulous button-down shirts that are beautiful for summer!
Shop Button-Down Shirts