The button down shirt is fashion’s quiet overachiever: Crisp yet effortless, structured yet adaptable, it moves seamlessly between seasons and settings. In winter, it peeks out from beneath cozy knits and sharp tailoring; come summer, it’s thrown casually over a bikini or tucked into denim. Few pieces deliver such instant polish with so little effort—so, there’s really no such thing as owning too many.
Vogue’s Favorite Button-Down Shirts:
Still, finding the perfect button-down can feel surprisingly difficult. With a saturated market of cuts, collars, and cotton weights, the search requires a curious eye. The best styles strike a balance between timelessness and statement—not too long nor too cropped, perhaps with an exaggerated cuff or delicate mother of pearl buttons. Thankfully, a handful of brands have mastered the art of shirting—offering everything from heritage-inspired classics to modern interpretations. Whether you’re investing or on the hunt for a well-made find that feels like a steal, the right shirt can transform your wardrobe.
And while your shirting collection will likely start with the classics—your whites and blues, and striped iterations that combine the two—don’t be shy to embrace color. Across the spring runways, designers leaned into bold hues as a canvas for expression. Think a flash of crimson red underneath a black winter coat, or a subtle pastel yellow peeking out from a grey cashmere. To really go for gold, layering two button downs will make a directional statement.
Below, discover the shirting brands that have perfected the silhouette—and deserve a permanent place in your wardrobe rotation.
Comme Si
If you’re looking for an under-$300 steal, look no further than Comme Si’s La Classica shirt. Offered in a range of stripes and saturated solids, the relaxed cut delivers borrowed-from-the-boys ease with an A-line silhouette that’s only slightly oversized. It’s the kind of piece you’ll reach for on repeat, whether styled with worn-in denim or layered beneath tailoring. (Besides cotton, the shirts come in silk, too.)