5 Ways to Style Men’s Button-Down Shirts

Joanna

/

Published January 9, 2020

/

Updated February 3, 2023

The button-down shirt adds versatility to any wardrobe with the ability to dress it up or down at a moment's notice.
The button-down shirt adds versatility to any wardrobe with the ability to dress it up or down at a moment’s notice. Photo: Deposit Photos

Men’s button-down shirts are the building blocks of a man’s wardrobe; they’re incredibly versatile and offer numerous styling opportunities. You can wear it on its own, layer it under your suit jacket, or over a t-shirt—endless possibilities!

Plus, you can dress up any look when pairing a button-up with jeans or chinos for an effortless yet stylish ensemble. Investing in quality pieces is always worth it, and this timeless essential will never disappoint you.

Choosing the perfect ensemble for men is easy when you know how to style button-down shirts. Here are some tips on creating a timeless, modern look:

1. Wear a Button-Down Over a T-Shirt

Casual and effortless, styling a button-down shirt over a t-shirt is timeless.
Casual and effortless, styling a button-down shirt over a t-shirt is timeless. Photo: Deposit Photos

On those days when the temperatures drop, opt to don a button-down shirt over your T-shirt. It is an effortless way of layering up and provides additional opportunities to get creative with previously overlooked pieces.

Say, for instance, that there’s one special tee in your wardrobe that has been worn and washed multiple times—so much that little holes have started appearing. Nevertheless, if wearing it still brings back fond memories, layer a handy top to make a stylish statement while cherishing its sentimentality.

Make sure you experiment by mixing and matching various color palettes for added pizzazz.

2. Tuck-In vs. No Tuck-In Shirts

Not sure if you should tuck in your shirt or not? Then why not defy convention and opt for a fashionable half-tucked button-down that allows you to experience the best of both worlds?
Not sure if you should tuck in your shirt or not? Then why not defy convention and opt for a fashionable half-tucked button-down that allows you to experience the best of both worlds? Photo: Deposit Photos

Men, pay attention; certain styles are timeless. The decision to tuck or not can have a significant impact on your overall appearance. Tucked-in shirts offer a smart, put-together look, whereas leaving it out sends the message of a relaxed style.

If you enjoy taking risks with fashion, why not give half-tucking a shot? Just ensure that if you’re sporting a tucked-in shirt, all buttons are done up or the first two are left open for a stylish finish.

3. Rolled-Up Sleeves

Roll up your sleeves to bring a smart-casual element to your button-down shirt.
Roll up your sleeves to bring a smart-casual element to your button-down shirt. Photo: Deposit Photos

Take your style up a notch with the smart casual look. Start by slipping into some jeans and pairing them with a classic white shirt. Rolling up the sleeves on men’s button-down shirts creates an effortless yet stylish vibe and ensures you stay comfortable throughout the day.

To achieve that perfect slouch, roll your cuffs just below your elbow for maximum relaxation! And if wrinkles are a problem for you, consider investing in a wrinkle-free shirt to make sure no one can tell whether or not it’s been ironed already.

4. Wear with the Right Pants

If opting for a simple shirt and pant look, it's essential that they complement each other.
If opting for a simple shirt and pants look, they must complement each other. Photo: Deposit Photos

Matching your shirt with the right pants is essential to complete a look. Sometimes, one must pair up the shirt and pants according to the season. For instance, you would want to wear a button-down shirt with corduroy pants during winter.

But this combination is a no for summer. So, pair up one of your men’s luxury shirts with a pant that goes with the season; at the same time is very comfortable and makes you feel confident.

5. Layered Style Dressing

Try layering a classic long-sleeve shirt with your favorite leather jacket for sharp look.
Try layering a classic long-sleeve shirt with your favorite leather jacket for a sharp look. Photo: Deposit Photos

When it comes to fall fashion, layering is king. Start with a shirt and layer on top of that a well-fitting sweater. V necks are the perfect accompaniment for this classic look. Why not wear your button-down shirt under a blazer for something more tailored?

Team them with jeans and complete the outfit with smart accessories like leather belts and quality shoes—you can’t go wrong. Alternatively, you can swap your suit jacket for a leather jacket for a look with more edge.

Layer a button-down shirt underneath a quilted vest for rugged style.
Layer a button-down shirt underneath a quilted vest for a rugged style. Photo: Deposit Photos

Button-down shirts are a perfect combination with quilted vests during those in-between seasons of spring and fall. For an additional layer of warmth, pair the shirt with a fleece vest when it is only slightly chilly yet not cold enough to require winter attire.

You can also use all sorts of styling techniques for button-down shirts. Make Friday better by wearing your favorite OrSlow shirts paired with matching khakis! It’s great for date nights or days at work without needing to dress up too much.

Final Words

Button-down shirts are a great wardrobe staple that can create an array of looks. They’re perfect for layering in the spring and fall or simply wearing alone during summer. Whether you wear them casually with jeans or dress them up for work with chinos or trousers, button-downs always give off a sophisticated look.

Following these styling tips, you can easily incorporate this timeless piece into your everyday wardrobe and take advantage of its versatility.


Recent Updates

Man Smiling Bomber Jacket Sweatshirt

Casual Outfits for Men: Effortless Style Proposals

When it comes to dressing casually, achieving an effortlessly stylish look can be more challenging. Dressing too casually can make ...
Read More
What to Wear with White Shoes

What to Wear with White Shoes: Casual to Formal

Regarding style, attention to detail is paramount, and the right choice of footwear can make all the difference. Classic white ...
Read More
How to Wear a Sport Coat

How to Wear a Sport Coat

The sport coat or sports jacket, born from the needs of English elites who craved a fashionable and rugged jacket ...
Read More
Zara Pleated Slacks V-neck Sweater with Collar T-shirt White Sneakers Aiden Andrews Model

Slacks: The Essential Men’s Wardrobe Staple

Navigating the world of men's fashion can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing the perfect pair of slacks ...
Read More
How to Wear Men's Chukka Boots

Chukka Boots: The Timeless Footwear Essential

For the stylish modern man, a top-notch pair of chukka boots is a must-have in his footwear rotation. Over the ...
Read More
Jean Jacket Outfits for Men: Master Denim Style

Jean Jacket Outfits for Men: Master Denim Style

Fellas, it's time to step up your denim game. The denim jacket is a men's clothing staple that should be ...
Read More