The Best White Button-Down Shirts for Women, Tested & Approved

This is one of the most understated items in your wardrobe, and perhaps the most iconic. The white button-down shirt is a timeless fashion staple. Timeless, easy to wear, and infinitely adaptable, it’s the answer to just about any outfit scenario I can imagine.

Part of getting dressed every morning is asking yourself how you want to dress. feel. comfortable? Polished? warm? nice? Sporty or feminine with white sneakers? A white button-down says yes to everything. Best of all, it’s easy to wear, easy to style, and always makes you feel right. Following my daily uniform has become one of the small acts of kindness I give myself. And that’s why I don’t mind the ever-growing row of crisp button-downs hanging in my closet.

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History of the white button-down

Brooks Brothers claims the title of inventor Coco Chanel introduced the button-down collared shirt silhouette to women’s fashion in the 1940s. On her runway, once-masculine staples became decidedly feminine, cinched at the waist to accentuate shape and structure.

From there, the white button-down earned its place in fashion history. Imagine Audrey Hepburn riding around Rome on a scooter. roman holidayDiane Keaton’s androgynous appearance Annie Halland Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s crisp, minimalist ’90s uniform. Each woman had a different interpretation, but everyone made it look timeless.

The shirt’s enduring appeal lies in its endless versatility. There’s an effortless artist who wears oversized sleeves rolled up. Minimalist with half tuck and open collar. Muse by the coast – thrown over a swimsuit, sunburned and taken off. And, of course, the off-duty elegance of wearing it unbuttoned at the end of the day with a glass of wine in hand.

What to look for in a perfect white button-down

A great white shirt may look simple, but its construction makes it a long-wearing piece. Fabric, fit, and finish all affect how it’s worn, washed, and draped over the body. Here are some things to keep in mind when buying your lifelong favorite.

fabric

Start with what you want to feel. Use natural fibers whenever possible. It has good breathability and ages beautifully.

• Cotton poplin: The crisp, sleek design is perfect for the work day or when you want a structured, “freshly pressed” look.
• linen: Lightweight and breathable, it’s perfect for warm weather or layering over a tank. Please allow for some wrinkles (that’s part of the charm).
• Silk or Tencel: Add drape and movement for a softer, higher quality feel.
• Oxford fabric: It is slightly heavier and textured, giving it a charm that seems borrowed from men.

fit

The best white button-down should be one that scoops up, not clings. When in doubt, try sizing up and rolling up the sleeves to keep the look slouchy and intentional.

• Classic: The waist is tailored so that it can be tucked into pants or a skirt.
• Relaxed or oversized: The modern favorite works equally well worn half-tucked with denim or over an open swimsuit.
• Cropped or boxed: New proportions that go perfectly with high-waisted pants.

detail

Small choices make a big difference.

• button: Mother-of-pearl and similar colored buttons look classy. Avoid anything that is shiny or looks like plastic.
• collar: Structured collar retains its shape. Soft things feel comfortable.
• hemline: Curved hems look great untucked, while straight hems give a more structured line.
• Back pleats: Adds subtle shape and shoulder comfort.

Opacity

The perfect white shirt doesn’t need a spare tank top. Hold the fabric up to the light. If it’s paper thin, pass. Choose a slightly heavier cotton-blend fabric or a double-weave linen that’s breathable but not see-through.

9 Best White Button Downs

We put in the effort (and a lot of laundry) to find the perfect one. Each of these editor-selected pieces has earned a permanent place in our closets, and are pieces we reach for on repeat season after season. From crisp classic cotton to relaxed linen blends, these are the white button-downs we wear, love, and wholeheartedly recommend.

How to save on white button-downs

Some of my favorite button-downs are thrifted and literally borrowed from men. I like to start in the men’s section for modern yet classic silhouettes. Look for men’s oxford shirts and linen shirts in natural fibers. Check the collar, buttons, and armpits for wear. A slightly oversized fit always feels intentional, especially when paired with tailored pants or cutoffs. And if you’re looking for a thrill, you can almost always find gently worn versions of the shirts above, or even new options, on Poshmark or eBay. online hunt.

How to keep the whites of your eyes bright and clear

If your once-white shirt has faded to a dull gray color, or worse, it’s stained, you’re not alone. Please clean up any spills immediately (I swear) This stain remover)Wash white items separately to prevent color transfer. Adding a wash enhancer or oxygen bleach from time to time will help keep it feeling bright and fresh year after year.

If you want to learn more, check out our guide on how to keep your whites white (it’s easier than you think).

A shirt you can wear forever

Every time I wear a white button-down, I’m reminded that style doesn’t have to be complicated. The right shirt works for every occasion, from coffee time to going out to dinner, feels good against your skin, and somehow always fits your mood. It’s the definition of simplicity and proof that the best works are often the simplest.

This post was last updated on October 31, 2025 with new insights.