T-L.i.f.e. Blog:
All About The: Button-Down Top
When you think of button-down shirts, images of men dressed in suits with briefcases in hand are likely to come to mind. But this menswear staple is becoming a staple in women’s closets. The button-down top is no longer limited to the conventional white version, as designers offer their takes on the business casual classic. And with such a variety of button-down styles, it can now be worn for a number of occasions. But the best part is that the shirt’s professional roots still shine through, giving any outfit a polished look.
These are some of my favorite takes on the button-down top—capturing the range of styles that can be found in your local mall. Just as Tamagotchi L.i.f.e. has a great appreciation of color, don’t be afraid to mix it up and add some colorful accents to create a trendy twist on these classic styles!
Fun Prep
Echoing the iconic Ralph Lauren button-down, this green version switches things up and ends the buttoning mid-torso.
Wear it: with a pair of skinny cropped pants or jeans. Go with flats for the full prep effect or a pair of Converse for a more utilitarian aesthetic.
Free-Spirit
The pinstripes may remind you of the office original, but this version’s lightweight material and loose fit sets it apart from its predecessor.
Wear it: untucked and get the full billowy effect. For an effortlessly cool look, pair it with denim cut-off shorts.
Grunge
Perhaps the most well known update to the button-down is the nineties’ grunge staple, the denim button-down.
Wear it: buttoned, unbuttoned, sleeves rolled up, with a pair of pants, or even a dress…the possibilities are endless.
Artsy
It’s the little details that make this button-down seem as if it should be hanging in an art gallery. From the semi-sheer silk fabric to the watercolor-esque purple stripes—fashionistas and art lovers alike can appreciate this top.
Wear it: with a cami layered underneath. A neutral toned cami puts the button-down in the spotlight, while a colored cami makes for a fun look.
Glam Rock
Tie-dyed, 100% silk, and cutoff sleeves, this version is a far cry from the original. But that means it’s also a far cry from the confines of a cubicle—so, wear it out for some fun!
Wear it: out. Whether you choose to pair it with heels, flats, or boots, one thing is for sure…you won’t be mistaken for a businessman.
Blog Post By: Keanne Okabayashi, Los Angeles, California