:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/IMG_3971-d4c886bd80df4be09984b7aa2b99218a.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ScreenShot2022-05-05at1.40.05PMcopy-f1e5bd2b99ae41b29277b121b8238cb7.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Caitlyn-Martyn-2000-27cb36b5187f4a88aff33510d3f11587.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/white-shirts-2c762816829f425caf619a65ad56138e.jpg)
Byrdie / Kevin Liang
Few outfits live as rent-free in my mind as Carrie Bradshaw’s styling of Big’s white button-up shirt in Sex and The City. Since this burned-in-my-memory moment on television, I have searched endlessly for the ideal white shirt. I quickly learned that not all dress shirts are created equal nor should they be. Some are too tight, too scratchy, or too transparent. But when you get it right, a white button-up is a closet MVP that you can style in so many ways.
That’s why we’ve conducted hours of research, evaluating top-rated button-ups and keeping materials, sizing, and price in mind. After reading customer reviews, consulting with experts, and considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated choices from brands like J.Crew, Reformation, Everlane, and more. Keep reading to find your favorite not-so-basic basic, because why steal from someone's closet when you can slay in your own? (We’re looking at you, Bradshaw.)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Banana-Republic-The-Perfect-Shirt-49fb1d5afc9042d295576a1e0f34d52a.jpg)
Size: XXS-XXL, petite sizes | Material: Cotton | Care: Machine wash
Banana Republic has been serving timeless elegance for almost half a decade, so it’s no wonder they know how to do a really good white button-up. And this one is accurately named. The Perfect Shirt is, well, perfect: It’s equipped with a crispy collar, a just ever-so-slightly oversized fit, and fabric that’s soft to the touch (It’s made of 100% poplin cotton) that holds up with wear. Plus, it comes in an array of sizes (petite sizes as well) and has other colorways if you’re in the market for more than just a classic white shirt.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Uniqlo-Rayon-Long-Sleeve-Blouse-845cbd26c4a441c283615bee6eba5a77.jpg)
Size: XXS-XXL | Material: Rayon, recycled polyester | Care: Machine wash
Imagine the styling possibilities with this silky smooth long-sleeve—it’s the ideal type of billowing blouse that you can throw on top of a mini dress or a bikini, but you can also wear tucked-in for an on-the-clock, work-appropriate look. That’s because it has that supple drapey style and is made of a super light rayon; bonus points for this one also being cost-friendly and machine washable. We’ve owned this shirt for many years and it looks as good as new. Plus, because it’s wrinkle-resistant, we don’t have to worry about ironing after washing or it creasing throughout the work day.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Anine-Bing-Mika-Shirt-dc237efc1eb64a978b7764399f436f9d.jpg)
Size: XXS-XL | Material: Cotton | Care: Dry clean
If you’re looking for a luxury basic, this understated yet elegant piece from LA-based designer Anine Bing is a no-frills investment. It has a really great shape—that dopped shoulder! The back pleats for added dimension!—and is finished with an exaggerated shirttail hem for that perfect oversized look. It’s a shirt that proves everything is all in the details, from the intricate wrist buttons to the crisp cotton poplin.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Modern-Citizen-Oversized-Split-Back-Shirt-170b32b453aa45adb678e64f167272fa.jpg)
Size: XS-1X | Material: Cotton | Care: Machine wash
Modern Citizen proves that a white button-up can be modernized (pun intended) with this oversized shirt. Thanks to the split back hem, you can easily tuck it into any bottom. Imagine it tucked into a denim midi skirt, one side hanging gracefully loose for shape or unbuttoned, semi-closed, or cinched with a belt. Thanks to its air of cool, this easy-to-toss-on shirt can be styled in a myriad of ways, serving a bit of asymmetry each time.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ayr-the-deep-end-shirt-d5b06e1767af43e980a7557ba67fc3c4.jpg)
Size: XS-XL | Material: Cotton | Care: Machine wash
Sometimes, you don’t need to refresh something that has been done right. This AYR (All Year Round) tunic-length button-up proves just that. “If you’re looking for a classic, crisp button-up that isn’t fitted to add to your everyday wardrobe or a workwear rotation, I’d highly suggest the AYR Deep End button-up shirt,” says fashion writer and blogger Alexandra Carreno Haines. “It’s versatile, yet also timeless.” An oversized front pocket adds just the right amount of asymmetry to this cotton number.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Quince-Washable-Stretch-Silk-Blouse-488a13bd139c403a8f2ff779f94e31f3.jpg)
Size: XS-3X | Material: Mulberry silk, spandex | Care: Machine wash, line dry
For those who want to add texture to their button-down collection, this anything-but-basic basic blouse from Quince boasts a luxurious, silky look. We love the details like the thin placket, the tall sleeve cuffs, the lustrous fabric. With a touch of spandex and amino acid packed silk, the shirt moves with you, feels heavenly against the skin ,and helps regulate your temperature. And the biggest bonus of all? It’s machine washable, and it comes in plus-sizes.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Everlane-The-Linen-Relaxed-Shirt-5e99ec99327c4192b395b953f2d02ee3.jpg)
Size: 00-16 | Material: Linen | Care: Machine wash
Cool down with this equally-as-cool summer suiting essential when the temperature gets hotter. This piece from Everlane is everything you love about a classic button-up but with a much more lightweight linen fabric, ideal for your next coastal outing. It’s a piece recommended by fashion content creator Rachel Spencer, who styles this with a tiny white tank, squared sunnies, and matching linen pants for the ultimate high-season uniform.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Universal-Thread-Womens-Oversized-Long-Sleeve-Collared-Button-Down-Shirt-2efc988458aa474480c2a5c950398b12.jpg)
Size: XS-4X | Material: Cotton | Care: Machine wash, tumble dry
“A white button-down is the one item I think everyone really needs in their closet,” says stylist and fashion expert Jen Reed. And her recommendation for which to add to yours? This oversized, hip-length version is from Target’s Universal Standard line. Made from 100% cotton poplin, it’s high-quality, affordable, and is great for base layering. Plus, we love that it comes in plenty of other colors and sizes up to 4X.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/LOFT-Petite-Oversized-Everyday-Shirt-0e4f254cccbc48388df5f9ad6e605828.jpg)
Size: XXS-XXL, petite sizing | Material: Cotton, modal | Care: Machine wash
If you’re petite, chances are you’ve struggled with styling oversized clothing. But this Loft everyday shirt has revitalized hope; scratch that, it showed us petites that we can fully own the style. That’s because this shirt is drapey without feeling massive. It is also crisp and clean-cut, adding a tailored shape to the shoulders and a relaxed and roomy fit throughout the bodice. But who’s surprised here? The label has been making incredible petite pieces for 25 years, so you can expect ~serious~ quality from any of their garments.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Reformation-Jodie-Shirt-ae41421f97254f2bbe05fc1afbf9154a.jpg)
Size: 0-12 | Material: Organic cotton, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold and dry flat
The ‘90s are indeed back. Have you seen a more Rachel Green-inspired button-up? This Reformation x Camille Rowe collab serves up a slinky version of the beloved button-up. It’s the type of shirting that can go from day to night, appropriate for an office but still trim and tailored enough to look great on a night out. And when you do switch in your 9-5 persona for your real-life 5-9 pm personality, we think this looks flawless with the last few buttons undone and paired with the brand’s Cherie Pant.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Athleta-Everlasting-Tank-e8237f4e24394e84bcafdf44c388a970.jpg)
Size: XXS-3X, tall and petite | Material: Recycled polyester, spandex | Care: Machine wash and dry
No sleeves? No problem. This warm-weather style from Athelta is made from a featherlight stretch material, meaning it could be the softest item in your wardrobe. And it’s made from odor-controlling yarn, so you don’t have to worry if your summer commute is a bit sticky. We’re confident, though, that it’ll be one of the easiest to pair. If it were up to us, we would layer it by tying it over this Athleta dress for spring and summer or with your favorite pair of loosely fitted trousers.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Quince-100-European-Linen-Short-Sleeve-Shirt-b83248e085bb45b2a0ebc4eaa092351a.jpg)
Size: XS-XL | Material: European linen | Care: Machine wash
This boxy-fit linen shirt from Quince is the perfect paradox. It’s high-quality but looks relaxed. It’s fuss-free but elevates a look entirely. That’s because it’s made of a luxe European flax that’s breezy and delicate, but it also holds up after washes. (Machine washes, that is. Bonus!) Plus, the material is more sustainable by taking less resources to grow.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Ann-Taylor-Collared-Button-Shirt-1a14953c940649b5a65c8bec3ce5eff6.jpg)
Size: XXS-XXL, petite | Material: Polyester | Care: Machine wash
We love the slightly oversized fit of this Ann Taylor favorite. And just because it’s a bit unfitted doesn’t mean it doesn’t hold shape— it actually means quite the opposite. The billowing arms allow for some movement and, in true blouse fashion, are adorned with pillowy button cuffs. The top, however, is more body skimming and then flows outward into a classic shirttail hem. Plus, it comes in petite sizes.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Good-American-Cropped-Poplin-Shirt-3ef2c785d7a84b22929966fe861ed4c0.jpg)
Size: XS-5XL | Material: Cotton | Care: Machine wash
The construction of a cropped button-up is a hard one to get right. It can’t be too trimmed, thus risking entering the ultra-tiny top territory, but it also needs to sit right above the waistline, staying true to its name. And that’s exactly what this long-sleeve from Good American does. Appointed with blue vertical stripes and a tailored fit, this airy shirt gains a bit of juxtaposed dimension and shape, making the proportions interesting on the body.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Universal-Standard-Elbe-Popover-Stretch-Poplin-Shirt-Classic-Fit-06d6bd3a7a604b298f38168515358338.jpg)
Size: 00-40 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Care: Machine wash
If you’ve ever struggled with gaping or a button popping open while wearing a button-up, you’ll want to check out this shirt from Universal Standard. The brand is known for its size-inclusive, elevated essentials—each of its pieces is modeled off of a size 18, and goes up to size 4XL. On top of that, this shirt has hidden snaps between the buttons which helps prevent anything peeping open when you have a large chest. You can also choose between if you want the buttons to go all the way down the stretchy shirt or just half way. We love having options.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Gap-Organic-Cotton-Big-Shirt-0b350baa82c44407a971e4676afd8377.jpg)
Size: XXS-XXL, tall and petite | Material: Cotton | Care: Machine wash
While we agree that this daytime-appropriate shirt can totally be worn buttoned-up or off the shoulder, this would look stunning styled with a mini dress on a chic stroll. And that’s why we consider it an excellent option for outerwear. It’s oversized, with a slimmer fit through the body, and is also available in petite, tall, and regular options, so your button-up-as-a-jacket doesn’t fall too long or too short.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/DOEN-Jana-Top-370680b6580145a28dbf8cb7ca728519.jpg)
Size: XXS-XXL | Material: Organic cotton | Care: Hand wash cold
A regal-looking, ruffled blouse deserves a spot in your closet. This one features lavish full-length sleeves, a lace-trimmed collar, and mother-of-pearl buttons extended down the front. It’s the type of luxe top that looks like it’s a straight-off-the-runway piece but with a much more forgiving price tag. Plus, it's made from organic cotton.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Alo-Yoga-Dreamscape-Button-Down-d62e69af9dcf4a1ebcef9118402832a8.jpg)
Size: XS-XL | Material: Crinkle woven fabric | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors
Classic white button-up, but make it sporty. This Alo Yoga button-up is the ideal mix of relaxed enough to be worn with a workout set a la Hailey Bieber. It’s the perfect barre-to-brunch attire because of its oversized nature and its breathable crinkle fabric (meaning it won’t feel like you’re putting on a business separate after breaking a sweat). And even though it’s more of an athleisure piece, it still has the elements of a workwear button-up, like its functional front pockets and a crisp collar.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Misha-Nonoo-White-Husband-Shirt-c0f000d292ba4c9790af5d23db6a137c.jpg)
Size: XXS-4XL | Material: Varied | Care: Hand wash or machine wash
The choice is yours when it comes to the Misha NoNoo Husband Shirt. No, really, the choice of making your ideal button-up—we’re talking fabric, color, size, and stud color — is totally your own when it comes to this brand. Whether you want a classic poplin or a breezy linen, a light blue or crisp white, or you want something a little more personal (like your initials monogrammed in a a poppy pink), you can do that with the brand’s Husband Shirt Builder. It’s super easy to use, and even more easy to make a long-lasting button-up that you won’t find on anyone else.
What to Look for in a White Button-Up Shirt
- Material: When choosing the right button-up shirt for you, it's essential to consider the fabric that suits your preferences and needs. For breathability, linen shirts are a great choice, especially during the warmer weather months. If you prefer something stiff and structured, opt for shirts that are made from 100% cotton. Some brands also make white shirts from polyester for a stretchy, wrinkle-resistant option.
- Cut: Say it with us: Not all white button-ups are created equal! Paying attention to their structure and lines is crucial to ensure they complement the rest of your wardrobe. If you want to pair the shirt with leggings, you might prefer a roomier style that's longer in the back. For high-waisted bottoms, a cropped white shirt (brought together by a statement belt) makes for a better match.
- Transparency: Sometimes you want a sheer shirt to show off your bra while other times you need more coverage, like when going to the office. When it comes to transparency, the general rule of thumb is as follows: The thicker the fabric, the more coverage. Sheer and lightweight fabrics, such as chiffon, silk, or specific cotton blends, are more likely to be transparent. If a fabric is denser, the less see-through it will be.
Why Trust Byrdie
Caitlyn Martyn updated this article. She's a staff writer at Byrdie, where she covers all things beauty and style. Her style icons are Ina Garten and Diane Keaton in Nancy Meyer's movies, so she knows a thing or two about white button-ups.
Hayley Prokos, Byrdie’s Associate Fashion Commerce Editor, wrote this article. She combed through online reviews and spoke to two experts to help compile this list of the best white button-up shirts for women.
Byrdie contributor Morgan Sullivan has over half a decade of experience in the beauty and fashion industry, writing for some of the most prominent magazines and websites. Along with writing about beauty, she also frequently covers relationship, wellness, and lifestyle topics. She interviewed the experts below to help her uncover the best white button-up shirts to buy now:
- Fashion writer and blogger Alexandra Carreno Haines
- Stylist and fashion expert Jen Reed
- Fashion content creator Rachel Spencer
- Emily Barnes, stylist, contributing fashion editor, and former global style director for Yoox Net-A-Porter Group
- Celebrity stylist Mickey Freeman
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-button-down-shirts-tout-b5153ae333a540568a74ffc374150dd4.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Cooling-Pajamas-of-2024-tout-b5c38d0099844087a0f624ec086962a1.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-primary-best-pajamas-jkim-0060-8ce5e71752124ec7a99b091fe2c55e79.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-beach-coverups-tout-fc2be34f7bc84b78947f62aa2a36e527.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-best-bodysuits-byrdie-tout-2-91b464c575b247c18641f0d75a2cf8d5.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Sweatshirts-Byrdie-Tout-8f75829a18764f43be01fe3e94b878ac.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-best-cotton-leggings-tout-52ab1383b1c143fc87515e45807d9762.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-best-maternity-jeans-tout-3-f39edc30c7844ae1824f3cbecc71fc52.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/best-denim-shirts-tout-937c1d56d131402dbe3ce7fa89a31730.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byrdie-update-best-tank-tops-for-women-tout-b7542c601c7841028a24779fbfe5c042.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-nursing-tops-tout-e191ca22087b4ad3b4dd7f3c9e7638c3.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/the-best-jeans-tout-79f57b033a494e31a2835676ac0b425a.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Byrdie-athometest-white-tees-v2-192e0f7fe764461f8862a39d95cb3979.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/byr-best-jean-jackets-of-2023-tout-f0be510388044b0ca31955daaaca9e51.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/recirc-25ff2b6d9e954653a78ad3463a18a2fb.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/10.5NightgownDressesYoullBeWearingAllDayandNight-Stocksy-fa104f96297044f38693e1584aeb1823.jpg)