How to Wear Your Classic Button-Down Right Now

Updated on 6/8/2018 at 2:01 PM

We definitely think of our button-downs as basics in our wardrobe, but there are plenty of not-so-basic ways to wear them. Since most of our collared shirts come in neutral colors or standard prints like pinstripes and checks, they go with virtually any bottom we pull out from our drawer, making for an effortless yet polished look.

But when you're wearing such a trusty staple, there's got to be a way for you to stand out from the crowd and show off your personality with a quirky touch. Lucky for you, we found plenty of hacks for twisting and tying up your button-downs, plus inspiration for what to wear with it as is. Read on to style your next unique outfit, and get ready to loosen up those buttons, babe.

Oversize as a Dress With Sandals

Under a Racerback Tank

Backward

Twist a collarless style around and unbutton all the way down your back.

As a Swimsuit Cover-Up

With the Sleeves Undone, to Create a Bell Shape

Under a Sweater to Add an Unexpected Pattern

To Mix Navy and Black at the Office

In a Casual Knot With Boyfriend Jeans

Untucked With Flared Pants and Mules

Undone But Tucked Tightly Into Your Cutoffs

With the Sleeves Rolled and Complete With Sneakers

Tied Around Your Waist — Just to Add More Color

As an Off-the-Shoulder Top

With a Matching Bandana

To Add a Modest Touch to a Sexy Slitted Skirt

To Add a Preppy Twist to an Edgy Leather Vest

To Create the Perfect Canadian Tuxedo

With Distressed Shorts and Sandals

Under Your Favorite Patterned Dress

With Pinstripe Slouch Shorts For Maximum Tailoring

Under a Military Green Parka

Creating Contrast Sleeves For Your Trench Coat

With a Button-Front Skirt and Heels

To Play Up Florals

Undone Just at the Bottom

With Rolled Skinnies and Slingbacks

To Show a Slip of Lingerie Underneath

With a Drop Choker That Extends Below Your Buttons

Open at Both the Top and the Bottom to Create a Triangle Shape

With a Tie, Because There's Nothing Sexier Than Menswear

Looped Up Into a Crop Top

Under a Pair of Overalls

Long With Over-the-Knee Boots

To Form a Totally Neutral Outfit

Belted With Booties