Womens Button Up Shirts

Womens Button Up Shirts

Women’s button-up shirts are the perfect base for any look. These versatile staples are an essential, whether you want to pair them with jeans or wear them as a top over a swimsuit.

But when shopping for one, it’s important to pay attention to the fit. Stylists recommend looking for oversized silhouettes, like this Madewell shirt, with extra-long cuffs to wear rolled up.

1. Ann Mashburn Icon Shirt

Founded by a former fashion editor with a verve for repurposing menswear, Atlanta-based Ann Mashburn carries classic clothing and accessories for women. Their cotton icon shirt is a perfect example: the shape that started it all (think “collared shirt” in its purest form), with a classic, scaled-down point collar and slim cut. Dead-simple, dead chic, and the easiest way to elevate your oldest jeans, most structured skirt or whatever is in your rotation that day.

This white button down has an oversized fit (great for layering over tees) in crisp paper poplin that is as chic wrinkled as it is pressed. But the best detail is that it’s made with sustainably-sourced, Better Cotton—a sustainable farming program that helps communities survive and thrive.

The brand also offers made-to-order shirts that have the same construction and fabric as their ready-to-wear, but at a more affordable price. But unless you’re a Sid Mashburn fanatic (which you should be, for reasons explained here), we recommend starting with the ready-to-wear instead. You’ll get the same high-quality and next-level construction from both, and you’ll save a few hundred dollars in the process.

2. Kule Button-Up Shirt

A crisp white button-down can elevate any look, whether you’re wearing it with tailored pants or jeans. This one from Kule—which features striped branding tape on the side seam—is perfect for casual outings. And, unlike other button-downs with a gape right between the chest, this one has a stitched-down placket to stop that pesky peekaboo moment.

This linen version of a traditional button-down shirt is womens button up shirts oversized but still polished thanks to front patch pockets, a subtle ruffle collar and cuffs, and bold striping. It’s a must-have for vacation and for work (just add the brand’s matching pants).

For an extra luxe take on a classic white shirt, try this soft charmeuse silk option from Frank & Eileen. It’s rich with details that transform conventional white shirting—a boxy silhouette, signature bust-flattering button placement, and rounded shoulders for a Kate Moss finish. Leave it loose over a slim white tank and jeans or tuck it into tailored shorts, trousers, or the coordinating Lido Pants for instant style elevation. The seasonless linen fabric is also surprisingly cool and comfortable for warmer weather wear.

3. Spanx Silk Button-Up

The Black Friday/Cyber Monday shopping extravaganza probably took a toll on your credit card, but it’s not too late to put it back to work—especially when you take advantage of the one-day-only Spanx sale. From silk button-downs to shapewear thongs, the coveted line’s collection is on major markdown.

The transparent silk shirt is designed with Bombyx eco-conscious, Bluesign-Certified silk and can be laundered at home (no dry cleaning needed!). It has a relaxed fit, a double-layered panel at the chest for opacity, and front-button closure. TFG readers have called it “the best womens travel shirt” and “so easy to wear,” while others say it’s flattering, doesn’t gape and looks great with jeans or a dress.

Staci Brinkman, founder of Sips By, says this linen top gives off Jane Birkin “strolling-in-the-park vibes,” even though it’s more casual than her go-to Aritzia boyfriend shirt. She loves the fact that it’s lightweight and airy, and she can pair it with her favorite jeans and a tee or blazer for more formal occasions. It’s also wrinkle-resistant and has a flattering, feminine silhouette.

4. Eddie Bauer Ripstop Shirt

For those who prefer a rugged, outdoor-oriented button-up, this shirt from Eddie Bauer fits the bill. It has a tough ripstop shell bonded to soft sherpa fleece and is waterproof with a 3000G/M2 rating. It has zippered hand pockets, a welded left sleeve pocket and adjustable cuffs. The rear yoke is vented to reduce clamminess. It’s a bit heavier than some of the other shirts in this test but it can stand up to a light rain and some shoulder-season hiking, especially when you layer with a windbreaker or hoodie.

The fit is a little more “outdoorsy” than some of the other shirts in this group, with minimal give in the arms and across the back yoke. The shirt also doesn’t womens button up shirts have the movement-ready stretch of the OR Astroman and Capilene Cool Daily Hoody, which isn’t a problem for hikers but might be for other active travelers.

That said, the shirt does pack in a compact size and it comes in regular (XS-XXL), petite (S-L) and tall (M-XXL) sizes as well as plus (2X-3X). It has great sun protection with 50+ UPF, and its polyester/nylon fabric wicks moisture and has built-in UV protection, too.

5. Riders by Lee Easy Care Blouse

A crisp white button-down can make a look feel pulled together in an instant. Whether it’s for work or play, a womens dress shirt is a must-have staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Pair it with a pair of slim pants or a skirt for a polished yet relaxed look.

A button-down should be soft and supple but structured and not too boxy, says Wardrobe Stylist and blogger Iva Pawling. That’s why this striped option from Riders by Lee is her go-to. She likes that it’s slightly crinkled but still feels crisp, and that its oxford cotton has enough weight to be opaque without feeling heavy or stiff.

It’s a great choice for everyday wear, and a solid pick for travel (check out the many reasons it’s a favorite of TFG readers in this review). If you prefer a looser fit, try this J.Crew version that’s a top-rated pick for bigger busts (and is available in 1X-4X).