Chic Button-Down Shirts for Women to Wear Anywhere and Everywhere (2024)

This 2021 Oprah’s Favorite Things pick is an all-around excellent button-down shirt. According to the brand, the shirt “was a banker on Wall Street until she cashed out and started a new career as a florist on Nantucket.” The fit is exactly that—just the right combination of structured and oversize. Wear it to the office, drinks with friends, on weekend errands, or as a beach cover-up.

Many button-down tops feature a button right in between the chest, causing that dreaded peekaboo moment. This one is different: the front has a stitched-down placket to stop the gape. Beyond that, it’s a perfect white poplin button-down for work or play.

If you want the classic work shirt style without feeling trapped in something too fitted, try this oversize poplin version. The 100 percent cotton body still has that structured feeling—but the relaxed, I’m-wearing-my-dad’s-shirt fit is ultra cool.

The high-quality, 100 percent cotton makeup of this shirt is a play on Everlane’s men’s oxfords—meaning it has that classically crisp work shirt look but with an effortlessly relaxed spin. The best review? It’s an “I’m cool but also serious” kind of shirt.

Silk is typically much more expensive, but this version is much cheaper than standard retail, machine-washable, and available in nine beautiful colors. It’s also blended with the tiniest bit of spandex for a comfortable stretch. And with more than 1,000 positive reviews—saying it fits true to size, feels luxe and airy, and looks flattering—you’re guaranteed to love it.

Uniqlo's linen long-sleeve button-downs are made from premium cotton without breaking the bank. They come in a ton of different summery hues (white, orange, pink, blue, and lavender) as well as sizes XXS - XXL.

A basic white linen shirt can take you from hot summer nights (layered over a tank or swimsuit) to chilly winter days (worn underneath a sweater). This one has a modern, oversize feel, doesn’t wrinkle too much, and is long enough to cover your butt.

Uniqlo's affordable, versatile, and quality satin button-down should be one of your wardrobe staples. It's easy to dress up or down and makes you look put together without even thinking. Available in five colors and sizes XXS - XXL.

Do you want to look like you threw your boyfriend’s shirt on over yesterday’s pants? This button-down is a subtle nod to that grab-and-go style (but in an oversize fit that’ll actually flatter you, not drown your body). The slightly dropped shoulders keep it feeling relaxed, and the high/low hem adds a cute touch.

If you’re craving that relaxed, I’m-just-throwing-this-over-my-swimsuit look, this is the button-down for you. Made from soft 100 percent cotton in a lightweight gauze (that’s meant to mimic linen), it’s beautifully comfortable dressed both up and down.

Faherty's premium linen button down-shirt comes in white, blue and white stripe, and summery shades like hibiscus and yellow. It has a relaxed, oversized fit that's perfect for lounging or layering.

This button-down is 100 percent unique and looks stylish whether worn with the matching pants or a simple pair of jeans. Plus, it’s available in a wide range of plus-size options.

This vibrant button-down is made from L.L. Bean's super-soft cloud gauze fabric. It's made from cotton for optimal breathability in warmer months.

We saw someone wearing this top on the street and had to stop them to ask where it was from! Known for their premium fabrics and modern designs, COS is an ideal place for all of your summer essentials – including this short-sleeved button-down top.

H&M's premium selection 100 percent linen shirts are soft and breezy unlike other cotton blends. You can get this classic piece in a range of shades like black, white, blue, and green.

This classic and feminine silhouette features a removable neck-tie for three ways of styling, and an adjustable cuff to ensure the sleeve length works for everyone. Made with Numi's stain-resistant Sustainable Silk™ fabric, this blouse is a wear-to-work essential or perfect for a family outing like Easter Dinner

One reviewer called this shirt “the best piece of clothing Everlane makes”—are you sold yet? The purposely boxy button-down comes in several muted shades and stripes and is made from 100 percent organic cotton, too. The shoulders are dropped, meaning it’ll look slightly more relaxed.

This is the ideal top for the summer. Made from extremely breathable linen—in seven gorgeous shades—and with a flattering, camp-style cut, it’s perfect for lounging poolside and too-hot nights. Plus, it’s a fraction of the price of other linen tops. (Try the long-sleeved version, too.)

Cropped button-down tops are the perfect solution to struggles with tucking in long shirttails. This one features a 100 percent cotton twill weave—meaning it’s got a slightly textured look but still hangs in that balance between structured and soft. Reviewers say the cut feels unique and unexpected.

A striped shirt is a closet staple, and this lightweight linen version is the perfect one. It’s tunic length – just long enough to cover your butt but also can be worn open or tucked in.