If a button-down doesn't factor among the most exciting pieces in your closet, maybe you just need to revisit how you wear it. Sure, they're inherently a bit simple, but that means there's more room to play with how you style it. It goes with jeans, skirts, over swimsuits [1], under crop tops, with sweatpants! So, if you've thought they're just for polished and preppy looks — and that doesn't quite sound like you — we've done some outfit research to help you reconsider.
Inside, we've curated 24 looks from a crew of creative influencers [2] that give this not-so-basic basic the attention it deserves, and proves there are plenty of easy ways to style a button-down that look way cooler than you've given it credit for. Plus, did I mention the outfits are easy [3]? Read on for our favorite ways to reinvent the staple you've been overlooking.
Knot a sweater over it for some dimension
Try it off-the-shoulder with jeans
Wrap it slightly and tuck into trousers
Leave it open with a monochromatic look
Use it as a swimsuit cover-up
Knot a short-sleeved version with wide-leg jeans
Top your sweatpants and sneakers with a classic button-down
Layer it underneath a vest to offset a statement piece
Knot it with jeans (and opt for a style with puff sleeves!)
Wear one open over a bra top and cutoffs
Throw it on top of a bold bustier top
Wear it under a blazer and add a bandana at the neckline
Wear it vacation-style with a swimsuit and a wrap skirt
Knot a loser version over culottes
Mix a button-down into your laidback look
Top your sweatpants with a striped version
Keep it simple with a pair of your favorite jeans
Throw one on over a bodysuit
Offset statement pants with a staple button-down in a bright color
Try a longer style over cutoffs
Remix it with a bustier layered right on top
Go business on top with a blazer and athletic shorts on bottom
Tuck one into a high-waisted mini
Tuck a fitted version into jeans