Personal style is the combo of a fashionista's choices, big and small, that come together to create a whole story. It’s not just the shirt you choose to wear, but how you wear it.
A button up shirt is a wardrobe staple that can be worn so many different ways. What does the way you wear it say about you? Perhaps you execute a neat military tuck. Or maybe you are so relaxed that you leave the sleeves unbuttoned and flowing in the breeze.
When styling our collection of linen button ups, I played with many different variations to find fun looks for each outfit. Here are the best tips I’ve learned as a fashion stylist and designer to help you wear your button up shirts in ways that capture the essence you're after.
Remember, there’s no wrong way to wear these shirts. It’s all about your creative vision and self expression.
Fun Fact: What’s the Difference between a “button up” and “button down” shirt?
I used the terms “button up shirt” and “button down shirt” interchangeably for years, but there is actually a difference between the two! A button down shirt has buttons that hold down the collar tips, whereas a button up shirt does not. Who knew?
1. Layering
Wearing a button up shirt on its own is cute, but using them as layering pieces is a great way to not only get more looks out of the same top, but to also create interesting outfits. Throw them a classic tank top or other shirts to create visually interesting looks with varied fabrics and prints.
Style Ideas
Perfect for Layering
2. Oversized / Relaxed
Oversized and relaxed silhouettes are super in right now, even when paired with baggy or wide leg pants. If you go for high quality fabrics, it can create a comfy, chic look.
The key to this look is in the styling. We’re going for relaxed, so don’t button your shirt up all the way. Leave a few open on the top. I personally even like to unbutton the sleeves and let them hang loosely around my arms for a flowy, carefree look.
Another note, remember that you’re not constrained to only buying your usual size. In this picture, I’m usually a small and wearing a small. But if you want to kick up the oversized look even more, like a “borrowed-this-from-my-boyfriend” style, go up one or even two sizes.
3. Tied Crop Top
While I do love an oversized look, other times I want to create a feminine, hourglass shape. A great way to do this is by tying your button down into a crop top. To do this, leave it unbuttoned and tie it at the smallest part of your waist.
This look works great paired with high waisted pants or a dress that fits at the waist.
Crop Tops
Shop the Look
4. Tucked
Another way to emphasize your waist is to wear high waisted pants and tuck your shirt into those.
Personally, I find that this look works best with either heavy material pants (like denim) or wide leg pants that cinch at the waist then flow away from the body. This ensures that there aren’t any lumps where the shirt was tucked in.
Tucking Tip: Do a “military tuck” by pinching and folding the shirt at the sides before tucking, to create a smoother fit.
Complete the Look
Add Accessories
5. Beach Cover Up
Toss a button down over your bikini for a cute, coastal style cover up. Just make sure to choose a fabric that does well with heat, sand, and water. We love linen and linen viscose blends, cotton viscose blends, and gauzy cottons.
6. Incorporate a Print
Opting for a button up with a print is a great way to incorporate your own style and create a more visually interesting outfit. A good print adds to the story; a great print tells it. Choose a print that shares the story you want to tell.
7. Matching Set
Matching sets are so chic. They convey an effortless put-together-ness that is just so gorgeous. We designed our wide leg pants to look luxe when paired with our button ups. Wear them together, or add the matching blazer for a stand out look.
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Green Goddess
8. Rolled Sleeves
I’d be remiss if I didn’t dedicate a section of this blog post to discussing the rolled sleeve. While button ups are dressier than your typical top, rolling the sleeves conveys stylish ease.
I also like this look because, as a petite woman, sometimes a long sleeve button up feels like a lot of fabric for my small frame. Showing a little forearm lightens it up.
9. With a Suit Set
Casual, linen suit sets convey easy elegance. I like to match all three peices, or just match the button-up with the pants and wear a contrasting vest underneath.
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Suited Up
There are endless ways to style your favorite button up! Tag us on ig @sunandsanctuary to share your favorite looks you've created.
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