button down shirt with t shirt

How to Wear Black Button Down Shirt: 15 elegant outfits for women

Black button-down shirts have long been a wardrobe staple for both men and women. However, in recent years, we have seen an increase in the popularity of black button-down shirts for women as they become a versatile and sophisticated piece that can be worn in various settings. Whether you are dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual with jeans and sneakers, a black button-down shirt can add a touch of elegance to your outfit. 

That’s why we’ve put together a list of 15 outfits that will make you look stunning on every occasion.

Classic Office Look

For a sophisticated office ensemble, opt for a long-sleeve black button-down shirt in a high-quality, breathable fabric like cotton or silk. Choose a fitted design with a tailored cut for a polished appearance. Pair it with well-pressed slacks, and classic pumps. Accessorize with a sleek leather belt that complements your footwear.

All-Black Ensemble

To create a chic monochromatic outfit, go for a fitted, long-sleeve black button-down shirt in a lightweight and comfortable fabric. Combine it with black skinny jeans made from stretchy denim for added comfort. Complete the look with ankle boots, preferably with a pointed toe, to elongate the silhouette.

Layered Under a Blazer

A black button-down shirt with a slightly relaxed fit works well when layering under a blazer. Opt for a classic blazer design in a complementary color like charcoal gray or navy. Pair this combination with dress pants in a coordinating shade for a sophisticated business-casual ensemble.

Tucked into a Midi Skirt

Choose a long-sleeve black button-down shirt with a relaxed fit to tuck into a high-waisted midi skirt made from a flowy material like chiffon or satin. Consider a skirt in a bold color or a floral pattern to create a striking contrast. Add heeled ankle boots or pumps for an elegant work or dinner outfit.

With Leather Leggings

For a slightly edgier look, pair your black button-down shirt with sleek leather leggings. Opt for leggings with a comfortable stretch and a high waist for added comfort. Complete the outfit with ankle booties in a complementary color and subtle jewelry for a fashionable and edgy ensemble.

with a scarf

For a touch of elegance, add a scarf to your black button-down shirt. You can tie the scarf in a variety of ways, depending on your personal style. This is a great way to add a pop of color or pattern to your outfit. Pair this combination with skinny jeans and ankle boots to create a stylish and functional outfit.

Smart-Casual with jeans

Choose a black button-down shirt with short sleeves to be versatile for everyday wear. Pair it with dark jeans, classic white sneakers, and a statement belt for a comfortable yet polished smart-casual outfit suitable for various occasions.

Crop Shirt with high-waisted pant

Embrace a chic style by choosing a crop black button-down shirt in a breathable and lightweight fabric like linen. Pair it with high-waisted, flowy patterned pants. Look for pants with a bohemian print or wide-leg design for added flair. Complete the look with comfortable sandals, layered necklaces, and a floppy hat for a laid-back and stylish ensemble.

Off-the-Shoulder with denim shorts

For a trendy and slightly edgy look during warmer months, wear your short-sleeve black shirt off one shoulder. Opt for a lightweight fabric like cotton or jersey to enhance comfort. Combine it with distressed denim shorts and ankle booties for a casual yet fashion-forward outfit. Accessorize with oversized sunglasses and a crossbody bag for an added touch of style.

With a Maxi Skirt in a Flowy Material

Choose a short-sleeve black button-down shirt for a relaxed yet put-together summer look. Look for a shirt with a loose fit and breathable fabric. Pair it with a flowy maxi skirt made from a lightweight and airy material like chiffon or rayon. Add flat sandals or espadrilles and oversized sunglasses for a bohemian and comfortable warm-weather outfit.

Casual with Lace Shorts

Keep it simple and casual by wearing a short-sleeve black button-down shirt untucked over distressed lace shorts. Look for a shirt with a relaxed fit and a soft, comfortable fabric like cotton. Complete the look with white sneakers or slip-on canvas shoes and a crossbody bag for a laid-back and easygoing summer outfit.

With a cardigan

During cooler months, layer your long-sleeve black button-down shirt under a cozy, oversized cardigan. Opt for a cardigan in a contrasting color or texture to create visual interest. Choose skinny jeans and knee-high boots to keep warm and maintain a stylish winter outfit. Accessorize with a warm scarf and statement earrings.

With a Tulle Skirt

For a playful and feminine look, pair a long-sleeve black button-down shirt with a tulle skirt. Look for a skirt with multiple layers and a high waist. Add heels or ballet flats to complete the outfit. Accessorize with a statement necklace and a clutch bag for a charming and whimsical ensemble, perfect for special occasions or evenings out.

With tank top and Shorts

Create a laid-back summer outfit by tying your long-sleeve black shirt at the waist and wearing it over a simple tank top or camisole. Choose comfortable high-waisted shorts in a complementary color. Complete the look with slide sandals and oversized sunglasses for a relaxed and stylish warm-weather ensemble.

Elegance with a leather skirt

For an edgy and stylish look, pair a black button-down shirt with a leather skirt. Tuck the shirt in and add a pair of ankle boots or over-the-knee boots. This is a great look for a night out or a special occasion. Add a statement watch to enhance the overall look.

How to Choose the Perfect Black Button-Down Shirt 

  • Look for a shirt with a tailored fit. If you are unsure about your size, it is always best to try on the shirt before you buy it.
  • Choose a shirt made from a high-quality fabric. 
  • Consider the occasion when choosing a shirt. A black button-down shirt can be dressed up or down, but it is important to choose a shirt that is appropriate for the occasion.
  • Think about your personal style. Do you prefer a classic look or a more trendy look? Choose a shirt that reflects your personal style.

Final Takeaway

A black button-down shirt for women is a must-have wardrobe staple that can elevate any outfit. With its versatility, elegance, and timeless appeal, it can be worn in various settings and paired with different pieces to create unique looks. So go ahead and experiment with different styles and outfits to make this classic piece your own.

HOW TO STYLE A CHAMBRAY SHIRT

Chambray shirts are truly the definition of versatility, aren’t they? They’re perfect for dressing up or down, and you can wear them in so many ways depending on the occasion. You can pair a button-down chambray shirt with tailored slacks and heels for a polished office look, or throw it over a bikini with denim shorts for a laid-back beach vibe. It’s like getting two shirts in one! Plus, you can easily layer them, tie them at the waist, or even tuck them into a skirt for a different look every time. A chambray shirt is definitely a wardrobe hero!

Chambray Shirt Outfit Ideas

WHITE JEANS CHAMBRAY SHIRT OUTFIT

You can never go wrong with the timeless combo of white jeans and a chambray shirt! It’s such an effortlessly chic look that works for almost any occasion. The white jeans give it a fresh, clean vibe, while the chambray shirt keeps things casual yet polished. I totally agree—adding a pop of color with a pink Longchamp bag takes it to the next level, but a neutral brown bag is just as versatile and sophisticated for a more understated style. It’s one of those outfits you can wear to work or for a weekend outing and still look put-together. Definitely a wardrobe go-to!

SHORT SLEEVE CHAMBRAY SHIRT

That’s such a win! Finding the perfect short-sleeve chambray shirt after two years of searching is definitely worth the wait, especially when it’s soft, comfy, and affordable. Sounds like it was a great find, and sizing down is always good advice for those who want a more fitted look. And those jeans under $20? Major steal! It’s awesome when you find a pair that fits true to size and is cute too—nothing beats an affordable, flattering outfit like that!

Khaki Pants with Chambray Shirt Work Outfit

Absolutely! A chambray shirt and khaki pants are such a classic combo, perfect for a polished yet relaxed work look. The neutral tones of khaki pair beautifully with the soft blue of chambray, making it a timeless outfit that’s always in style. And you’re so right—since chambray is so versatile, you can swap it for other colors or fabrics and still achieve that effortlessly chic vibe. Whether you go for a light chambray or try a different shade, it’s an easy, stylish option that works in so many settings!

Chambray Shirt With Black Skirt Outfit

I totally get that! The “Canadian Tuxedo” look can be a bit much for some, but your compromise is genius. Pairing a chambray shirt with a black denim skirt strikes the perfect balance of denim on denim without being too matchy-matchy. The black denim adds a sleek edge, and the chambray keeps it casual and fresh. It’s a great way to embrace the trend in a more subtle way! And for a more polished, conservative twist, swapping the denim skirt for a pencil skirt is a fantastic idea—still stylish but definitely office-friendly. This is such a clever take on the denim trend!

With Linen Shorts

Linen shorts are the perfect summer staple—light, breathable, and so comfy! It sounds like you’ve really found your go-to pair with the Amazon Essentials ones; I love how versatile they are, especially when you have them in multiple colors. And it’s awesome that Walmart has a similar option for even more variety. Linen shorts work great as a beach outfit too, and tossing them over a swimsuit is such an easy and chic way to go from beach to boardwalk. I’m sure your blog post on styling them has tons of great tips for mixing and matching—such a smart way to get the most out of a summer essential!

Open With Stripe Tee and Linen Pants

That sounds like such a laid-back yet elevated look! Linen pants paired with a basic tee are already a winning combo, but adding a striped tee underneath and throwing a chambray shirt over it as a light jacket takes it to the next level. The stripes add a fun pop of pattern without overpowering the simplicity of the linen, and the chambray shirt gives the outfit that effortless, cool vibe. It’s perfect for a stylish day out or even a casual work look. You get that easy, breezy feel while still looking put-together!

Chambray Shirt with Black Jeggings Outfit

Jeggings are such a wardrobe game-changer, and I love that you’ve found a knit pair that works for both more formal settings like church and casual work environments! The fact that they’re not made of denim gives them such a versatile, polished feel while still being comfy. Your blog post with outfit ideas sounds like a must-read! The way you can dress them up with flats or heels for a more sophisticated look, or go casual with sneakers for errands, makes them such a go-to piece for every occasion. It’s the perfect balance of chic and comfort—definitely a style win!

Chambray Shirt with Olive Jeans Outfit

Olive jeans are definitely trending right now, and I love how you’ve put a unique spin on them by pairing them with cowboy boots! The mix of olive with the rugged vibe of cowboy boots adds such a cool, unexpected twist to a preppy staple. It’s an awesome way to make a classic look feel fresh and current. And black cowboy boots are such a versatile choice—they pair well with everything and, if they’re comfortable too, that’s even better! It’s the perfect combo of trendy and laid-back style. You’ve definitely nailed it!

Chambray Shirt With Vest Outfit

A puffer vest is such a perfect piece for those in-between chilly days! I love that you’ve found some great options on Amazon—puffer vests are not only super cozy but also add a bit of extra style to your outfit. Layering one over a chambray shirt is such a cute look—chambray adds a nice casual touch, while the puffer vest keeps things warm and practical. It’s the ideal combo for staying comfortable and stylish when the weather’s not quite cold enough for a full jacket. Plus, the versatility of puffer vests makes them a go-to for layering!

Chambray Shirt With a Maxi Dress Outfit

That’s such a stylish way to wear a chambray shirt! Tying it at the waist over a maxi dress is a great alternative to the classic denim jacket—it adds a bit of structure while still keeping the outfit light and breezy. The relaxed vibe of the chambray shirt contrasts beautifully with the flowiness of the maxi dress, and the tied waist gives it a fun, laid-back look. It’s perfect for transitioning between seasons too, as it adds just the right amount of warmth without being too heavy. Such a cute and effortless combo!

conclusion

In conclusion, the chambray shirt is an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled in countless ways for every occasion. Whether layered over a maxi dress, paired with khaki pants for work, or tied at the waist over a swimsuit, it adds a laid-back yet polished touch to any outfit. From casual weekends to more polished work environments, the chambray shirt seamlessly blends comfort and style, making it a must-have for any wardrobe. The key is finding the right balance, whether it’s mixing it with denim, adding a fun accessory like a colorful bag, or layering it in creative ways to keep your outfits fresh and fashionable.