I’m Certain This Is the Most Valuable Basic: 5 Outfits to Make It Feel Chic

Kris Jenner works hard but I’m convinced my white button down works harder. There is not one piece in my closet that single-handedly gets more wear than my white button down shirt. Whether it’s worn over a bathing suit with white linen pants, under a blazer with trousers, or tossed over a tank top and jeans, this piece is so versatile and polished all at the same time.

When we talk about best basics (often), there are a few main pieces that are so necessary including quality T-shirts, well-fitting jeans, tailored suiting, and (my hero piece) the button down. Layering options with a button down are endless, plus it gives an air of effortful dressing immediately, whether or not it was truly an effortful look.

Button downs don’t always have to be stiff and business-like, especially in the times of work from home and hybrid-work environments. I’ve tapped my favorite fashionable Instagrammers for five new button down outfit ideas. Shop my take on their looks below.

Vests are a great transitional piece and also super versatile in your wardrobe. Match them with a trouser for a full suit look and pop the set over a white button down for an ultra-tailored menswear-inspired outfit.

It may seem like a dichotomy but a well-tailored pair of baggy trousers is about as chic as it gets. Find a pair that has an intentional wide leg and somewhat of a puddle-pant feel. This gives just the right amount of effortless polish to any look. Wearing it with your oversized white button down is an obvious way to look super put together.

Upgrade your sweatpants by pairing them unexpectedly with your crisp button down. A fun tote bag and pretty flats perfectly complete this trend-forward look.

Elevated pajama pants or just wide leg satin trousers are a super comfortable way to make hybrid-work dressing chic. Add on a classic neutral bag and a longline coat to complete the ensemble.

Layering a button down underneath a cashmere sweater is always chic. Make it edgier with a pair of parachute pants and the cool-girl sneaker of the year, Salomons.