The Best Button

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Chic wardrobe staples for this summer and beyond.

Is there anything quite as classic as a crisp button-down shirt for women? The style comes in nearly every color, pattern, fabric, and cut—from slouchy, oversize versions to crisp white shirts and breezy linen button downs. Plus, button-down shirts can be worn with a ton of different outfits and in a ton of different ways. You can't go wrong by tucking one into a pair of jeans or tailored trousers. Button-downs are fantastic as layering pieces in the summer. Throw one over your bathing suit when you're pool or beachside, or tie it over your shoulders to have as an added layer for strong AC. However you wear a button-down shirt, it's bound to look stylish.

Because there are countless options out there, we’ve selected 20+ of the best button-down shirts around. The list includes everything—cotton poplin shirts, sustainable linen, and even washable silk. There are a range of fits, too, from tight to fitted to oversize. And some different cuts, like cropped shirts, and short sleeves button down tops.

Read on for our favorite button-down shirts for women to wear this summer and beyond.

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.

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.

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.

If you’re looking for a super basic, absolutely no frills, need-it-in-a-day button-down top, this is the one. The 100 percent cotton comes in around 20 colors and patterns and is incredibly budget-friendly—and reviewers say it's decent quality for the price.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.)

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.

Go all into the classic preppy look with this striped button-up shirt. Made with easy-care cotton, this shirt would look equally good with khaki pants as well as a more casual denim skirt and sneakers.

Oprah-favorite brand Kule's take on the button-down shirt is this classic, oversize cut. It's 100 percent cotton and borrows its style from men's shirting, meaning it’ll have a polished, crisp feel with a slouchy, relaxed fit. Best of both worlds, if you ask us.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cassie Hurwitz (she/her) is an assistant editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers everything from culture to entertainment to lifestyle. She can typically be found in the middle of multiple books and TV shows all at once. Previously, Cassie worked at Parents, Rachael Ray In Season, and Reveal. Her love language is pizza (New York slices, Chicago deep dish, and otherwise).

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily.

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