French, Scandi, and New York Women Are All About This Easy Outfit Formula

Woman wearing baby blue button-down shirt with white t-shirt underneath and white denim maxi skirt.

(Image credit: @iamnkriote)

After traveling across Europe and the U.S. this summer, I've found the singular outfit combination that's universal to nearly every stylish person out there: a simple tank top or T-shirt paired with a button-down shirt. Whether you're wearing this foolproof look with jeans, running shorts, or a maxi skirt, the timeless dress-shirt layering look is perfect for a polished yet simple outfit formula, especially in between the seasons.

As summer slowly starts to set and shoppers begin their hunt for cool fall pieces, the button-down–and–T-shirt combo has never looked better. If you're looking for an outfit that'll seamlessly work in transitional weather, look no further.

Below, browse some inspiration on how to style a simple button-down with a tank top or T-shirt, and then shop our favorite transitional pieces for the season ahead.

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @styleidealist)

How to style: White button-down + khaki pants + white tank top + heeled black sandals + black belt

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

How to style: White button-down + white T-shirt + black maxi skirt + black slingbacks + thin leather belt

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @_paulineleroy_)

How to style: Striped button-down + white tank top + Adidas shorts + loafers

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

How to style: White button-down + white T-shirt + black capri pants + skinny bag + strappy mules

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

How to style: White button-down + white T-shirt + gray trousers + brown leather belt + brown sandals

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @iamnkirote)

How to style: Baby-blue button-down + white T-shirt + white denim maxi skirt + black leather belt

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @thecarolinelin)

How to style: Blue button-down + white T-shirt + slouchy jeans + black sweater draped over shoulders

Influencer wearing button down shirt outfit.

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

How to style: Striped button-down + white T-shirt + black slip skirt + black sandals

Ana Escalante
Associate Features Editor

Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor whose work ranges from dissecting size inclusivity at fashion week to discussing how American Girl Doll meme accounts are the the answer to society's collective spiral. She's covered it all: Copenhagen Fashion Week, Roe v. Wade frontline protests, and the re-branding of jorts, or, jean shorts for the uninitiated. At Who What Wear, Ana crafts sharp, irreverent features that speak to a digital-first generation, bringing her signature wit and unapologetic tone to long-form fashion and beauty content. If it’s smart, snarky, and a little unexpected, you'll probably find her name on it.