If you ask any Who What Wear fashion editor what their favorite basic is, I can guarantee a button-down shirt will be at the top of their list. The classic staple—loved by the French—is one of the most versatile items you can own. It can (and should!) be worn year-round. While they're timeless in nature, button-down shirts are also having a major moment on the fashion scene right now. The fall/winter 2023 runways were brimming with button-downs, from crisp white shirts paired with miniskirts at Prada to pinstripe shirts and boxers at Bottega Veneta and blue button-downs styled with tailored trousers at Fendi, and the staple appeared in practically every collection, solidifying its "queen bee of basics" status.
As I mentioned earlier, the button-down has long been a staple in every stylish Parisian's wardrobe, and it's now unquestionably the hero of my wardrobe too. It's an ideal transitional piece that takes me seamlessly from season to season. As a fashion editor, I've tried and tested a lot of button-downs, and today, I'm sharing 18 of my favorites that I love right now—whether for their cut, silhouette, or value for money—along with a few ways I've been wearing them. Of course, I'm adding plenty of stylish inspiration from the fashion set to inspire your next button-down-shirt ensemble.
This recent Zara purchase has been one of my absolute favorites this season. Its cool, relaxed fit works with everything from jeans to skirts, and I love the rich blue.
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Reformation's Will Oversized Shirt is one of my all-time favorites. It's lovely quality and has a chic, relaxed fit. It comes in a ton of colorways, and no doubt, I'll be adding more to my arsenal this season.
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I got this shirt by L.A. brand Nia over a year ago, and it continues to stay in amazing shape after being washed a ton!
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The Gap's Organic Cotton Big Shirt remains one of my favorites of the season. The black one is easy to wear from day to night and has a cool oversize fit. I can't wait to get it in white too.
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Shop more I highly recommend:
Timeless and classic—Sessei shirts are a favorite among the fashion set.
COS never fails when it comes to its elevated, oversize button-downs.
Alex Mill shirts are such great quality, and their silhouettes are timeless.
This crisp blue hue will go with everything and has major French-girl vibes.
The fashion crowd loves HommeGirls' cool and effortless aesthetic.
I've tried a large variety of J.Crew's button-downs, and this one is my absolute favorites.
Madewell's signature button-down is great for casual everyday wear.
If you're looking to invest in a great-quality shirt that will last the test of time, go for this Yaitte one. Plus, this color is gorgeous.
H&M's poplin shirt is great value and boasts an easy, relaxed silhouette.
The French brand Sezane, excels when it comes to button-downs. I'm obsessed with this versatile beige stripe.
Everlane's silky cotton shirt drapes beautifully and will look equally chic tucked into high-waisted trousers as it would worn untucked with jeans.
My next purchase is Ref's Will Oversized Shirt in this cool striped colorway.
This statement print from The Frankie Shop is eye-catching. Just add loosely tailored white trousers.
I own this shirt in blue but can't wait to get it in beige to re-create this runway look. It's one of those shirts that are made to last.
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