The Real Chic Life

Before we talk about my one of my favorite wardrobe heroes, I’m excited to announce that the winner of our Eberjey Luxury Pajama Giveaway is Adirondackmmama! Congrats, please email therealchiclife@gmail.com with your name and preferred email address to claim your prize. We’ll be announcing another exciting giveaway for our lovely subscribers on Tuesday!

We write about capsule wardrobes frequently on The Real Chic Life, and include must-have essentials that make getting dressed easier (like great denim or a nice jacket). But if there’s one item in my wardrobe that I reach for no matter the season, mood, or trend cycle, it’s the white button-down shirt. Clean, crisp, endlessly versatile—this piece has stood the test of time, and for good reason. Whether you’re running errands, headed to a meeting, or getting dressed for date night, the white button-down is the unsung hero that always pulls an outfit together. I’ve linked some of my favorites below, but first let’s talk about why every woman needs one:

1. It’s the ultimate style chameleon.

Tucked into tailored trousers, it says “I’m the boss.” Half-unbuttoned over a bikini, it whispers “I vacation in the south of France.” Worn loose over jeans and a tank, it’s effortlessly cool. The white button-down can go from boardroom to brunch without missing a beat.

2. It’s timeless.

While trends come and go, the white shirt remains. Audrey Hepburn wore it. Carolyn Bessette made it iconic. Today’s modern woman gives it her own twist—with chunky gold jewelry, leather pants, or slouchy denim. You never look dated in a white button-down; you just look chic.

3. It plays well with others.

Pair it with literally anything: pencil skirts, joggers, slip dresses, biker shorts, wide-leg trousers. Layer it under a blazer or over a turtleneck. Knot it at the waist or belt it for shape. It’s the blank canvas of fashion, ready to be painted with your personal style.

4. It gives “put-together” energy, instantly.

There’s something about the structure and simplicity of a white button-down that makes you look more polished—even when you barely tried. Messy bun and yesterday’s jeans? Add a white shirt and suddenly it’s a look.

5. It’s a wardrobe investment that works hard.

A high-quality white button-down won’t just sit in your closet; it’ll be in constant rotation. Treat it with care. Trust me, it will give back more than you ever imagined.

Styling tip: Don’t be afraid to size up for a relaxed, borrowed-from-the-boys vibe. Roll up the sleeves. Pop the collar. Let it speak to your mood.

In a world of fleeting trends, the white button-down shirt is a reminder that true style lies in simplicity. If your closet doesn’t already have one, now’s the time. Here are a few of my favorites (click the photos or links to shop):

For a dressy or elevated casual look, the Sézane Chlo shirt in ecru silk is my go-to. We’ve mentioned the Chlo shirt a lot on the Real Chic Life because it really is that good. This shirt drapes beautifully, and the embroidered placket and collar give it a little wow factor that makes it effortlessly chic. This is a shirt that can also be dressed down with jeans, and it still looks luxurious. Sézane also makes the Chlo in different fabrics and prints each season, and if you want a button down that really stands out there are options like guipere lace and embroidered flowers to choose from.

I also love the look of the Sézane Bilma shirt (this one is currently on my wishlist, but you can see it on Tonya’s Instagram) because its classic look and wide cuffs are so chic. This is a traditional poplin shirt with an oversized fit that also looks good dressed up or down.

For a more casual look, my absolute favorite white button down was a maternity find from the brand Storq. Hear me out— while this is technically from a maternity line, there is nothing about this shirt that makes it exclusively for pregnant women. Storq designs their clothes to be worn at all stages of life. I’ve been wearing mine for years now, because the material is the perfect silky, soft texture that drapes beautifully. If you’re looking for a white button down that doesn’t have that business casual stiffness, but isn’t as high maintenance as silk, this is a wonderful option for a relaxed look. It’s also machine washable and mine has looked as good as new for years. It even won a Best Of award from Forbes. It’s currently sold out in most sizes, but you can sign up to join the waitlist.

For a great linen option for spring/summer, you can’t go wrong with J.Crew’s Garçon classic shirt in Baird McNutt Irish linen. This high-quality linen shirt has a classic fit and is easy to pair with trousers or a midi skirt for a slightly dressy look or with shorts for an elevated resort look.

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The beauty of the white button-down is that it doesn’t ask for attention—but it always earns it. It’s the kind of piece that quietly holds your wardrobe together, no matter how your style evolves. So if you’re building a closet with intention, start here. It’s not just a shirt—it’s a foundation.

Do you have a favorite white button down or another wardrobe item that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments.

Xo,

Courtney