These are a part of my everyday uniform, and especially so since it’s beginning to warm up a bit. I like them with jeans and chinos, dressed down, and I like them a bit oversized. This is more than just a little oversized, and I love the idea of wearing it with skinny pants or leather leggings even.
Preppy stripes in pink feel like a strong springtime choice.
I really like the oversized pockets in this boxy oxford, and it comes in several also-very-good colorways.
Here is the shirt I own in multiple colors and wear at least a couple of times a week. It’s from an indie brand called Cali Dreaming, and I’m pretty sure you’d love it.
I’m also a fan of Xirena button-downs, and think this pink number would add a nice amount of pop to most any outfit.
Here’s one in washable silk that’s very nicely priced.
If you’re a person who likes menswearish looks, I feel it is incumbent upon you to own a tuxedo shirt, just because they’re so damn snappy.
This is made of Irish linen and has a nice, slouchy fit.
This looks like you stole your boyfriend/husband/brother’s shirt, but it’s cut for the ladies.
A striped cotton specimen that’d be fantastic peeking out from under a blazer or cardigan.
I love the embroidered details here.
This camp shirt would be great with a denim skirt.
I like the contrasting pinstripes here.
And here’s a slightly trippy print that I’m kind of obsessed with.
This shirt is super-cheap—crazy given that it’s 100% cotton—and it comes in several good colors, though (of course) I’m partial to this soft yellow.
I have really gotten into button downs lately – my absolute favorite is the Mika from Anine Bing (https://www.aninebing.com/collections/classics/products/mika-shirt-white) and I just recently ordered my second shirt from Hommegirls – an awesome cropped button down : https://www.hommegirls.com/collections/underwear-and-socks/products/chambray-blue-cropped-shirt-with-contrast-collar
I’ve just started going back to my office, and am pretty psyched about my outfit today — blue striped button down similar to the one above, my no-stretch jeans (which I can finally fit into again), and loafers. Unfortunately, it’s spring break and I’m the only one here, so I’m telling you all about it instead.
In Spring and Summer I often wear a button down as an “overshirt” over my tees or tanks. Offers added sun protection and, as a bonus, helps me overlook some of what I feel are my body imperfections. The Cali Dreaming shirt looks pretty perfect for said endeavor––I also really like the jeans the model on the left is wearing.
I live in button downs year round and always appreciate a round-up. I just ordered Cali Dreaming one in navy. Thanks for a little spring shopping inspiration : )
I am not a big button down fan – and haven’t owned one in years (decades, even) – but may give the contrasting pinstripe one a try. And, how (well) fitting that you wear The Ace(s) shirt frequently!
Went for the contrasting pinstripes and somehow an oversized flannel mixed print version fell into my cart, too…. We’ll see if these will get me over my button down aversion – born, I think, from Oxford shirts being the only alternative to frilly tie neck options for “female attorneys at stuffy-ass law firms in the 90s.”
ROTFL that was so true! And not just the stuffy law firms. We all tried to “dress for success.” Lucky magazine and their follow up books turned all that on its head, thankfully!
Kim (or others), do you know of button downs that can accommodate a larger (DD) bust? I love the look of button downs but the gaping between the buttons often makes them a no-go for me.
@Sarah I don’t know of a RTW maker but if you sew or know a good tailor, there are patterns you can adapt for a “full bust.”
I just sized down to XS petite in Gap 100% Organic Cotton Big Shirt. My bust is 34 DDD and I often have the gapping issue. Not with this one! It still has that boxy oversized fit . I highly recommend. And you can’t beat the price.
You might find this helpful, Sarah: https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-button-down-shirt-for-bigger-busts.html
I think that Frank & Eileen’s “Eileen” shirt could work for you. It’s a bit oversized, but not extremely so. I frequently find them on-sale.
https://the-shirt.com/
Extra hidden buttons – ! Works really well.
What’s the sizing like on the Cali Dreaming button downs? Based on what I’ve seen of measurements on various sites, they are voluminous and a person could easily size down.
I would be interested in how the shirt works for someone with the chest gap problem. It’s a fine shirt. Sometimes the “oversized” look doesn’t work with a large bust though. Otoh, it is sort of a streamlined style. Maybe I will go back and look at the pictures again.
Yes, I think that’s fair to say.
I forgot to mention that I received my Kule sweater blazer thingy that Kim posted about. Worth every penny! I ordered the cream color rather than the navy and it is smashing. No doubt the navy is equally good.