13 Best White Button Down Shirts to Get Back to Basics With Timeless Pieces

Written by Ankita Kandade, Certified Fashion Expert
Updated on Feb 23, 2024
White Button Down Shirts To Get Back to Basics with Timeless Pieces
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There’s no fashion accessory that can match the elegance of the best white button down shirts. They instantly elevate your style, make you look classy and can take you from office ready to party ready in a matter of seconds. The classic white shirt has something to offer for everyone - slim fit formal, loose casual fit, oversized baggy fit, you name it, you have it. 

The classic piece has been promoted from its clinical style to more modern silhouettes featuring different collar designs, varying sleeve lengths, and asymmetrical hems.

Even after getting a contemporary makeover, the white fitted shirt still remains a timeless staple in everybody's closet. You ought to keep in mind that you can’t wear just any button down shirt, but you need to keep your body type, occasion to wear and fit in mind to purchase the best white shirt. So fret no more, here’s the ultimate guide to purchasing the smartest white button down shirt.

13 Best White Button Down Shirts

Outfits created by Amazon Essentials are affordable and long-lasting as they are made from high quality fabrics. This white fitted shirt is made from poplin. Poplin is a cotton fabric which is strong and crisp. It has a silky, lustrous surface. Since it is 100% cotton, it is soft and cool to wear. The shirt has a chest pocket, one-button cuffs, and shirttail hem. Available in sizes extra small to double XL, team it up with a blue denim and a pair of sneakers for a casual Sunday outing.

Pros
  • Chest pocket
  • One-button cuff
  • Shirttail hem
  • Breathable fabric
  • Slim fit
Cons
  • Inaccurate sizing
  • Best casual fit

    Womens Button Down V Neck Shirts

    Womens Button Down V Neck Shirts
  • Made from 70% cotton and 30% linen, these loose fitting white button up shirts for women by Runcati have a vintage feel to them. They feature long sleeves with roll up tabs, two chest pockets, V-neck, and turn-down collar. The fabric is lightweight and breathable. Suitable for work meetings as well as weekend getaway, they are available in sizes small to double XL. Pair them up with jeans, leggings, or shorts for an elegant and classy look.

    Pros
    • Roll tab sleeves
    • Two chest pockets
    • Lightweight
    • True to size
    • Casual fit
    Cons
    • Non-stretchy
  • Most comfortable for toddlers

    The Children's Place Baby And Toddler Boys Oxford Button Down Shirt

    The Children's Place Baby And Toddler Boys Oxford Button Down Shirt
  • The Children’s Place has a good collection of the essential white fitted shirts for toddlers and babies. This oxford shirt is made from cotton for a breathable and skin-friendly feel. The most important factor to keep in mind while crafting clothes for babies and toddlers is their comfort. The cotton fabric keeps them cool and comfortable all day long. Featuring a button-down collar, chest pocket, and curved hem, this shirt can be paired with pants for special occasions or with a tee and shorts for a day outing.

    Pros
    • Cotton fabric
    • Machine washable
    • Oxford shirt
    • Adjustable cuffs
    • Long sleeves
    Cons
    • Wrinkles easily
  • Best summer wear

    SUNNOW Womens Tailored Basic Button-Down Shirt

    SUNNOW Womens Tailored Basic Button-Down Shirt
  • This white fitted shirt by SUNNOW goes with everything. The short cuffed sleeves make it perfect to wear in the summers. It is a slim fit casual shirt with a crisp collar, cuffed sleeves, and curved hem. Made from a blend of cotton and polyester, the shirt is breathable and lightweight. Tailored for a sleek and polished look, this can be your basic office wear. Available in sizes small to triple XL, it exudes simplicity and class.

    Pros
    • Short sleeves
    • Stretchy fabric
    • Comfortable
    • Curved hem
    • Spread collar
    Cons
    • Runs small
  • Best formal wear

    J.Ver Men's Solid Button Down Shirts

    J.Ver Men's Solid Button Down Shirts
  • Made from 62% Cotton, 35% Polyester, and 3% Spandex, J.Ver Men’s solid white fitted shirt is soft and comfortable to wear. The long sleeves, one-button cuffs, and classic spread collar makes this shirt perfect for formal occasions. The blended fabric does not wrinkle much and can be ironed easily. The sizing is available for both boys and men. It is a basic formal shirt that you can wear for your office meetings, interviews, project presentations, etc. Team it up with a tie and formal pants and you are office ready. Team it up with a waist-coat and pants and you are ready for a corporate party.

    Pros
    • Wrinkle free
    • Spread collar
    • Stretchable fabric
    • Adjustable cuffs
    • Comfortable
    Cons
    • Shapeless
  • Best boy’s formal wear

    Calvin Klein Boys' Long Sleeve Sateen Dress Shirt

    Calvin Klein Boys' Long Sleeve Sateen Dress Shirt
  • Calvin Klein’s collection of shirts for boys are effortlessly cool and timeless. They have been tailored in a sophisticated yet classic style. This long sleeve white fitted shirt is made from 60% cotton and 40% polyester. It is ultra comfortable and long-lasting. The point collar, buttoned cuff detailing, shirttail hem, and modern fit is perfect for any occasion. The sizing is available in both big boys’ sizes and husky big boys’ sizes.

    Pros
    • Machine washable
    • Formal wear
    • Modern fit
    • Curved hem
    • True to size
    Cons
    • Quality of the fabric can be better
  • Best plus size for men

    Van Heusen Men's Dress Shirt

    Van Heusen Men's Dress Shirt
  • Van Heusen is a hallmark in the world of shirts. They are famous for their workwear apparels. This casual fit formal shirt has a chest pocket, button-down collar, long sleeves, adjustable cuffs, and shirttail hem. The cuffs have 2 button positions for a snug fit. The button-down collar looks good with or without any neckwear. Made from 100% cotton, it is available in sizes small to 5XL. You can dress the shirt up or down. It will look good either way.

    Pros
    • Machine washable
    • Oxford shirt
    • Adjustable cuffs
    • Strong and durable fabric
    • Casual fit
    Cons
    • Runs large
  • Best plus size for women

    Gemolly Women's Basic Button Down Shirts

    Gemolly Women's Basic Button Down Shirts
  • White button up shirt for women by Gemolly is a formal shirt made from cotton and spandex. The fabric is soft, breathable, and long-lasting. It does not wrinkle easily. The shirt has a spread collar and one-button cuffs. The hem is shirttail design perfect for tucking into the pants. The long sleeves can be rolled up to three-fourth length with the help of the roll tabs. This slim fit shirt when worn by tucking into the pants will accentuate the waist, giving you an attractive silhouette. Available in sizes small to triple XL.

    Pros
    • Machine washable
    • Slim fit
    • Roll tab sleeves
    • V neckline
    • Wrinkle-free
    Cons
    • The fabric quality can be better
  • Best linen

    Karlywindow Womens Button Down Cotton Linen Shirt

    Karlywindow Womens Button Down Cotton Linen Shirt
  • This linen white fitted shirt for women is skin-friendly and lightweight. Made from a blended fabric of 70% cotton and 30% linen, the soft fabric provides extreme comfort and support. The shirt is tailored to loosely hug the body, perfect for a casual day outing. It has a V-neck, turn down collar, cuffed sleeves, and curved hem. Pair it up with jeans and high heels or shorts and sandals, it will always look  elegant and classy. Available in sizes small to double XL.

    Pros
    • Skin-friendly
    • Long sleeves
    • Breathable fabric
    • Machine washable
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • The fit is not good
  • Extremely comfortable

    BIG DART Oversized Button Down Shirts For Women

    BIG DART Oversized Button Down Shirts For Women
  • The oversized white fitted shirt is your perfect boyfriend shirt. It looks chic yet comfy, sophisticated yet relaxed. You can keep it classic with a pair of jeans and sneakers or you can wear it as a dress with high heels. You can wear it as loungewear at home or tucked into a slip skirt, you can wear it on a date night. Made from 70% cotton and 30% polyester, the shirt is soft to touch. Available in sizes extra small to double XL, it is suitable for the summers.

    Pros
    • Machine washable
    • Oversized
    • Versatile
    • Comfortable
    • Long sleeves
    Cons
    • The fit is not good
  • IZOD Boys' Solid Button-Down Collared Oxford Shirt

    IZOD Boys' Solid Button-Down Collared Oxford Shirt
  • Durable and long-lasting, IZOD’s white button down shirt for boys comes in a classic fit. It has a button down collar, chest pocket, and adjustable cuffs. The shirttail hem makes it easier for the boys to carry the formal look. The high low hem stays perfectly tucked in the pants. The shirt is made from 55% cotton and 45% polyester. It is soft and comfortable to wear. This shirt is perfect for both daily outings as well as  special occasions.

    Pros
    • Classic fit
    • Oxford shirt
    • Formal wear
    • Machine washable
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Runs small
  • MGWDT Button Down Shirt Women

    MGWDT Button Down Shirt Women
  • This oxford white button down shirt for women is suitable for all seasons. The button down collar gives it a formal look. The shirt is made from a blend of cotton and polyester for ultra comfort. The fabric is stretchy and durable. It does not easily wrinkle. It is a classic essential piece for both casual and formal occasions. The slim fit shirt comes with a button down collar, adjustable cuffs, and curved hem. The slim fit design outlines the body in all the right places, highlighting a beautiful silhouette. Available in sizes double XS to triple XL.

    Pros
    • Oxford shirt
    • Slim fit
    • Button down collar
    • Wrinkle free
    • Suitable for all seasons
    Cons
    • Hand wash only
  • jonivey Women Stretch Button Down Shirt

    jonivey Women Stretch Button Down Shirt
  • White button up shirts for women by jonivey’s are well-tailored and comfortable to wear. The fabric is stretchy and breathable, made with a blend of 95% polyester and 5% spandex. The silky soft material is wrinkle resistant and can be easily ironed. The shirts have classic spread collar, long sleeves, one-button cuffs, and shirttail hem. The fit is casual and comfortable. There are princess line darts on the front and back. Available in sizes small to double XL, these shirts go well with any outfit.

    Pros
    • Spread collar
    • Lightweight
    • Wrinkle-free
    • Comfortable cut
    • Machine washable
    Cons
    • The fabric quality can be better

    How To Choose White Button Down Shirts?

    White button down shirts are a basic essential in everybody’s wardrobe. Since it is worn most often, it is important to buy the best white button down shirt that you can get your hands on. Some points to consider when looking for white button down shirt:

    • Material: The material is of utmost importance as the white button down shirt is worn excessively. A durable, lightweight, and soft material will make the shirt comfortable to wear all day long.
    • Design: There are many styles of white button down shirts. Always select one that is flattering to your body shape. The design and cut must present a beautiful outline.
    • Fit: The fit will determine the place you can wear your white button down shirt. A slim fit is suitable for a formal event while for a trip with your friends, an oversized fit will keep you comfortable and stylish.
    • Customer review: Customer reviews will either encourage you to buy a product or not to. By going through the reviews you get to know about the quality and durability of the product. We often get discouraged from buying an item when there are no customer reviews.

    How to Style a White Button Down Shirt?

    Our contributor Pazit Reuven, Fashion designer - Shawlovers, shares 3 ways for styling a white button- down shirt for plus sizes-

    “1. Tucking a white button-down shirt into high-waisted pants or a skirt is a great way to style it for plus sizes. This combination emphasizes the waistline and creates a balanced, flattering silhouette. The high-waisted bottom provides support and makes your legs look longer.

    2. Wearing a fitted spaghetti strap tank top underneath an unbuttoned white shirt offers a fun, trendy look. Tying the shirt at the bottom adds a cool touch while highlighting the waist and providing a relaxed yet chic style.

    3. A statement belt is a great option for plus sizes as it effectively highlights the waistline and creates a more defined silhouette. Placing the belt at the smallest part of the waist can bring a flattering shape to the outfit and provide a more polished look.”

    Sharing a few ways to accessorize a white button-down shirt in a stylish manner, our contributor Pazit Reuven says, “A white button-down shirt is a subtle yet strong, versatile staple in any wardrobe. Its neutral color serves as a blank canvas, which allows you to take your style in various directions. Here are a few chic pairings:

    • Gold accessories like necklaces, bracelets, or earrings can give a white button-down shirt a classy look. The gold adds an elegant complementary touch to the white, making the outfit more sophisticated.
    • Bold Colorful Jacket provides an opportunity to make a fashion statement while keeping the look balanced due to the white shirt.

    A scarf is another easy winner. Tying one around your neck with the upper buttons open can add a lot of chic to your look.”

    Contributor: Pazit Reuven, Fashion designer - Shawlovers

    Our findings show that the best white button down shirt in your wardrobe is the most versatile outfit. Even if you’re going to a wedding, a party or brunch, the white shirt can amp up any look within a matter of seconds. Be it a tailored cut or a casual one, be it a fitted poplin or an oversized linen, you always find an occasion to flaunt your white button down shirt. 

    Today, the white button down shirt has become size inclusive to embrace all body types. Pay attention to details while you purchase a white shirt and we’re certain that you’ll find it hard not to wear a white button down shirt every day of the week. So get shopping and make a style statement every time you step out of your home.

    FAQ's

    Which shirt is best for white shirt?
    Shirts made from poplin cotton are the most comfortable and durable.
    What is a white button-up shirt called?
    White button up shirts are also called formal shirts or dress shirts.
    What is the best fit for a button-down shirt?
    A button-down shirt with a slim fit is perfect for formal occasions and with a casual fit for casual outings.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    White shirts exude such beautiful elegance and charm that our fashion expert, Ankita, can’t get enough of them. She hoards them like there is no tomorrow (literally). Being a fashionista, she knows the problems that can come when choosing the perfect white button-down shirt — they should be comfy, stylish, chic-looking, and comfortable. To help you take a breather and make the shopping experience easier, she has personally selected these top 13 white button-down shirts based on reviews, ratings, and tests done by her and the team. After trying all the shirts, she and her teammates found Womens Button Down V Neck Shirts to be one of the best shirts for casual wear. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Ankita Kandade
    Certified Fashion Expert

    Ankita is a budding journalist and a certified fashion expert. If the Fashion police were an official organization, A More