The 20 Best Button-Down Shirts Our Editors Back

if there is a wardrobe staple What has stood the test of time is buttoned shirt.

From its preppy origins to its modern iteration, this versatile piece has evolved while staying true to its role as Must-have item. For me, the appeal of a button-down shirt is its adaptability. I often choose oversized styles and wear them open over a stylish jacket tank and wide leg pants. This combo checks all my boxes plainly dressed needed while still feeling current. Regardless of style and loafers for a cool edge or to tighten with a belt long skirtA good button-down shirt is truly the workhorse of any wardrobe.

The editors of UK’s Who What Wear magazine agree, we all have our own favorite styles and ways of dressing. Our assistant social media editor Anne favors shirts with sophisticated tailoring details, pairing them with tube jeans for a Generation Z twist. Meanwhile, Branded Content Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor Rebecca loves fashion color— Her current go-to is a burgundy button-down shirt, which she can’t wait to pair with shorts in the spring. See – this is what I call versatility.

Let’s not forget the countless cultural moments that cemented the button-down shirt’s place in fashion history. Originally a menswear staple, it later became synonymous with preppy style, driven by brands like Ralph Lauren, which elevated it to a symbol of American casual luxury. From a 1950s Ivy League campus to cult-favorite custom clothing 1980s royals like princess dianathis wardrobe MVP has long been a symbol of timeless sophistication.

Today, its versatility continues to inspire people from Hollywood to high streetnot to mention the runway. In Prada’s Spring/Summer 2025 On the show, oversized poplin shirts were layered over pencil skirts and cinched with corsets—a fresh take on traditional silhouettes that were equally wearable in real life.

whatever you prefer minimalist Whether it’s styling or maximalism, button-up shirts offer endless possibilities. This is the perfect base layeredcan be used as a stand-alone statement piece, easily switching between casual and formal occasions.

Keep scrolling to see our team’s favorite ways to wear this hero piece, plus a roundup of the best button-up shirts available right now—from designer buys to affordable styles—plus personal recommendations.