Wardrobe Staples and Style Tips : The White Button Down Shirt

It’s New York Fashion Week and it’s so exciting to see what’s coming up for Fall. But before you venture out and buy all the new trends, do you have the right basics in your closet? Classic is key when keeping you wardrobe versatile and the white button down is one of most important must haves for any closet. This staple is the perfect blank slate piece.  You can wear it with skirts, jeans, trousers, leather leggings, you name it.  It can be layered over and under and take your look from day to evening. Any woman can wear this piece because it can be conservative buttoned up or sexy if its worn half open.  It can also be worn long to hide any undesirable areas.  Have I convinced you?

The most important thing to remember when buying a button down is to get the proper fit. Make sure there are no gaping holes near the bust and the length hits you at mid hip.  I suggest purchasing one made with a cotton blend that has some stretch to it.  A shirt made out of thinner fabric tends to snag.  If you already have the classic button down and want to shake up your wardrobe, check out the contrasting collar button downs that are coming out for Spring.   If you want to be really fashion forward and emulate what was on the runway, just button the top button and leave the rest open.  I do suggest you wear a silk tank underneath.  Let’s not scare anyone away!

Here are three looks I put together with my own white button down. It’s from Banana Republic and costs $60.  I like that it has some spandex in the fabric so it hugs my shape without being too tight.

Look #1 – Casual weekend look – I added a sparkly statement necklace to give it pop. Henry and Belle Skinny Ankle Jean, H&M Crochet Sweater, Vince Camuto Suede Booties, Henri Bendel Necklace

Look #2 – Business casual look – I tucked the shirt into the skirt and layered necklaces to add more interest. H&M Skirt, Nine West Booties, David Yurman Initial Necklace, Henri Bendel Pendant Necklace

Look #3 – Date night out – I added a leather jacket to give the look more edge. Zara Faux Quilted Leather Jacket, 7 for All Mankind Velvet Skinnies, Jeffrey Campbell Pointy Toe Pumps

So how do you wear this versatile and important staple?

For more information about my styling services, visit my website at kathrineeldridge.com.