The 20 Best Button-Down Shirts Our Editors Stand By

If there’s one wardrobe staple that has withstood the test of time, it’s the button-down shirt.

From its preppy beginnings to its modern-day iterations, this versatile piece continues to evolve whilst maintaining its status as an essential piece. For me, the appeal of a button-down lies in its adaptability. I often reach for an oversized style and wear it open over a sleek tank and wide-leg trousers. This combo checks all the boxes for my modest-dressing needs whilst still feeling on-trend. Whether styled with loafers for a cool edge or cinched with a belt over a maxi skirt, a good button-down is truly a workhorse in any wardrobe.

My fellow Who What Wear UK editors share this sentiment, and we all have our favourite styles and ways to wear them. Our assistant social media editor Annie gravitates towards shirts with subtle tailoring details, pairing them with barrel-leg jeans for a Gen Z twist. Meanwhile, Rebecca, senior fashion and beauty editor for branded content, loves a pop of colour—her current go-to is a fuchsia button-down that she can’t wait to style with shorts come spring. See—there’s that versatility I was talking about.

Let’s not forget the countless cultural moments that have cemented the button-down’s place in fashion history. Originally a menswear staple, it became synonymous with preppy style thanks to brands like Ralph Lauren, which elevated it into an icon of American casual luxury. From the Ivy League campuses of the 1950s to the tailored looks favoured by 1980s-era royals like Princess Diana, this wardrobe MVP has long been a symbol of timeless sophistication.

Today, its versatility continues to inspire, from Hollywood to the high street, not to mention the runways. At Prada’s spring/summer 2025 show, oversized poplin shirts were layered over pencil skirts and cinched with corset belts—a fresh take on a traditional silhouette that feels equally wearable IRL.

Whether you lean towards minimalist styling or maximalist flair, the button-down shirt offers endless possibilities. It’s the perfect base for layering, can work as a standalone statement piece and easily shifts between casual and formal settings.

Keep scrolling to discover our team’s favourite ways to wear this hero piece, along with a selection of the best button-down shirts available right now—from designer buys to budget-friendly finds—complete with personal recommendations.

SHOP OUR EDITORS’ FAVOURITE BUTTON-DOWN SHIRTS:

1. Humaa Hussain, Junior Branded Content Editor

Style Notes: “I love the relaxed look of an oversized white button-down—it’s a perfect layering piece for my modest wardrobe.”

Shop Humaa’s Pick:

Style Notes: “I’m all about subtle details that elevate a classic, like darting and soft tailoring.”

Shop Annie’s Pick:

3. Rebecca Rhys-Evans, Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor, Branded Content

Style Notes: “Sometimes you need a little colour to shake up your wardrobe staples, and I’m currently loving pink.”

Shop Rebecca’s Pick:

SHOP OTHER BUTTON-DOWN SHIRTS WE LOVE: