If you don't already have *at least* one button-down white shirt in your capsule wardrobe, then you're seriously missing out. Much like a great pair of jeans, a simple white tee or a classic LBD, it's nothing short of a fashion essential – and one of those rare pieces that will make getting dressed every day *so* much easier.
Why? Because a white shirt is as classic as they come, and so versatile that it will go with pretty much anything. Seriously, though: you can layer it under a snuggly jumper or knitted dress in winter, wear it with a tailored suit in autumn, tuck it into shorts come spring, pair it with a maxi skirt and heels for an elegant event, and even style it over a bikini on your summer holidays. And that's just a few examples off the top of my head.
Then there's the fact that a white shirt will never go out of style, which makes it the ultimate failsafe fashion investment that you'll never regret making – even if you end up treating yourself to three (which actually, you probably should).
To prove my point, I've found 7 fresh outfit ideas featuring a white button-down shirt front and centre, impeccably styled by some of the coolest women on the planet. Your search for summer fashion inspo ends here.
Tucked into jeans
First up, an absolute classic – because we can't pretend that British summer is all swimsuits and short-shorts. On those inevitable cooler days, a white button-down shirt and jeans are the perfect pair, keeping you cool in the sun and just covered-up enough to survive the shade (or cranked-up office AC). Simply switch up your accessories to match the vibe and weather: loafers and a leather bag for work, or jelly shoes and a straw bag for casual days in town.
As a dress
Borrow from your boyfriend/brother/dad's wardrobe or size up significantly for one of the easiest, breeziest summer outfits that exists: an oversized white shirt worn as a dress. Add heels or jazzy flats to make the look more street style than sleep style, and cinch with a waist belt to add shape.
Everyone's clicking on...
With a statement skirt
Wondering how to style your favourite statement party season skirt for the summer? Just add a white shirt, that will instantly tone it down for a more everyday look, that's still fashion-forward and fabulous. Opt for a slimmer-fitting shirt and tuck it in for a streamlined look, or layer a looser, oversized style over the top if you're feeling a little more experimental.
With jorts and flip-flops
There's no denying that longline jorts – or denim Bermuda shorts – are having a major fashion moment right now, replacing Daisy Dukes as the cool girl's summer short of choice. The easiest way to style them for an outfit that screams effortless chic? With a loose white shirt left partially unbuttoned, plus flip flops, stylish sunnies and hoop earrings. Epic Birkin bag, optional.
As a jacket
Everyone knows that layering is key to dressing for the ever-changing British weather – even in the summer. Once again, the white shirt comes into its own here, worn as a jacket over a white tee, smart black trousers and leather ballet pumps, with a grey jumper tied around the waist for good measure. It's the perfect low-key office look that covers every eventuality.
With tailoring
A tailored suit and a white shirt are a match made in fashion heaven – just make sure the set is on the slouchier side to ensure the look is more chic than City banker. My top tips: wear the shirt slightly unbuttoned, have a hint of cuff poking out of the blazer sleeves, and accessorise with a colour-pop bag or shoe to keep things fun.
For an event
Take a leaf out of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's iconic fashion playbook with this elegant ‘90s minimalist look that can – and should – be copied down to a T. For your next smart event, sidestep the LBD and tuck a crisp white shirt into a black maxi skirt instead, adding heels, a metallic clutch bag and a swipe of red lipstick to bring the glamour.
Clementina Jackson is Acting Site Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, working across news and features, trends, e-commerce and SEO. She was previously Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan and Women’s Health, and Acting Digital Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, where she was named as a PPA 30 Under 30 award winner for her work on size inclusivity. An experienced fashion, travel and luxury lifestyle journalist, Clementina has also written for Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Condé Nast Traveller, Tatler, Red and Italy Segreta.
