If white bread is the quintessential pantry staple, then the white button-down top is the fashion equivalent. The white button-down top is a versatile and chic classic that can be worn professionally or dressed down for any occasion. There is a multitude of styling opportunities with this timeless garment.
It has a place in every woman’s closet, whether she is a staunch minimalist or maximalist. Pair a white button-down top with your favorite denim shorts and accessorize with a silk scarf for a sophisticated yet effortless look. And if the thought of putting on denim, after months of wearing quarantine-friendly sweatpants, incites feelings of overwhelming discomfort (I can’t blame you), then you can even pair the shirt with white culottes for a comfortable yet stylish summer ensemble.
Although the white button-down top will forever be a classic, the crisp fitted shirt silhouette has seen its fair share of business meetings and can do for an upgrade. Long gone are the days where corporate attire had to be bland and completely devoid of personal style. Where is the harm in injecting 80’s inspired puff sleeves, delicate embroidery, and intricate smock detailing into the corporate setting?
I scoured the internet to serve you the six trendiest white button-down tops that you’ll be excited to wear at your next zoom meeting or for your next socially distanced picnic – whatever suits your fancy.
Zara Jewel Button Poplin Shirt
Add a touch of elegance with this shirt made by Zara. The jewel buttons are eye-catching yet subtle, while the combination of the Peter Pan collar and balloon sleeves adds a touch of whimsy.
Ganni Puff-Sleeve Poplin Button-Down Top
The charm of a white button-down top increased ten-fold when Ganni came out with this puff-sleeved doll-like beauty. The billowy nature of this shirt is playful without being overwhelming.
Forever 21 Buttoned Puff-Sleeve Top
Forever 21 may be synonymous with cheesy graphic tees, but one can find some chic pieces at affordable prices if you can look past the shirts with food puns. Luckily for you, I searched long enough to find this feminine ¾ sleeved top. The fitted nature of the torso, which is afforded by deliberately-placed darted seams, is balanced with the presence of puff sleeves.
& Other Stories Fitted Smocked Shirt
Dare I say, the smock detailing on this & Other Stories shirt cannot be outdone. The uniform smocking that is present throughout the shirt provides a figure-flattering silhouette. The Lyocell and linen fabric content strays away from the typical starchy cotton for a light and breezy feel.
Topshop White Embroidered Shirt
Embroidered tops have the potential to look grandma-eque, instead of the intentionally-cool-vintage-yet-modern aesthetic that has been trending in recent years. Topshop mastered the latter by adding dramatic balloon sleeves that are sure to catch the eyes of others, even from six feet away.
LPA Rey Top
LPA’s Rey Top is a unique and classy spin on the traditional white button-down top thanks to the off-the-shoulder style, subtle yet effective pleat detailing, and over-sized collar.