Frank & Eileen have recently rekindled my love of classic button-up shirts. And while I highly (highly!!) recommend their featherweight ‘Eileen’ button-up (more on that, below), this style of shirt has an easy, comfortable sexiness that’s surprisingly easy to pair with my usual summer pieces. So if you’ve been eyeing up an old button-up that may be currently hanging in your closet, consider this your personal invitation to dust it off.
shirt (s)
That said, if you happen to be in need of a new button-up shirt, this super lightweight shirt by Frank & Eileen (aptly named “Featherweight”), has swiftly become a favorite in my wardrobe. Made from 100% cotton, making it wonderfully breathable (so breathable, in fact, I can feel a breeze right through it), it’s a dream in terms of comfort—right from the moment it slipped on, I was smitten by its softness and airy feel.
The lightweight cotton texture not only feels amazing against the skin but also drapes beautifully. It can be tucked into jeans or skirts without adding any bulkiness, or knotted at the bottom for a more casual, laid-back look. The sleeves can be rolled up (and they stay up!) and because it’s so lightweight, I can wear it even on the warmest days.
5 Summer Outfit Ideas With A Classic Button-Up Shirt
So here are 5 summer outfit ideas for button-up shirts. While I’m partial to the darker colors (I have it in both navy & black), these outfits would also work just as well with classic white.
1. With a Denim Maxi Skirt
shirt (s) | skirt (27, runs slightly big) | sandals | bag
I mean, why not pair featherweight with featherweight? I tried a number of denim skirts last year and Rag & Bone’s Featherweight Avery Maxi was by far my favorite. It’s incredibly comfortable—super soft, lightweight, and obviously a perfect match for the shirt. Together, they create such an easy, effortless look. (And the skirt is on crazy sale right now…over $150 off, but selling out pretty quickly!)
2. With Baggy Jeans
shirt (s) | jeans (s) | sandals | similar bag
I’ve had these jeans for a while now, but with the trend of baggy and loose fits everywhere, they somehow feel fresh again. Even though I’m not a huge fan of barrel jeans, these “barrel-adjacent” ones are some of my favorites–I love the drawstring waist! They run slightly big…I’m wearing size small here and am a 6/28. (They come in a TON of different washes, too!)
3. With Denim Shorts
shirt (s) | shorts (28, darker wash here) | sandals | bag (on sale!)
I love pairing button ups with denim shorts…it’s actually one of my favorite summertime combos. My go-tos have been my AGOLDE Parkers for a couple of years now, but I recently discovered this pair from PAIGE that adds a little extra comfort to the mix. With a hint of stretch and a slightly longer inseam (4″ versus 3″), they somehow feel even more comfortable and, dare I say, “appropriate.” (Can’t believe I just used that word—thanks, Dad!) 🤣 Also…I’m obsessed with these sandals (and they also come in a heeled version!).
4. As a Top Layer
I hesitate to call this shirt a jacket because it’s so lightweight, but it works as a top layer over dresses–and is a great alternative to denim jackets (although it’s thin enough to layer under one as well!). It’s the perfect way to add a little coverage and give dresses a more laid-back vibe for daytime wear.
5. Make it Fancy
shirt (s) | sandals | skirt (6)
This top is absolutely perfect for pairing with a fancy skirt. I stumbled upon this gem on Rent the Runway, and while I instantly fell in love with it, I was at a loss for what to pair it with. After rummaging through my closet, I grabbed this shirt because I knew it would tuck in seamlessly without adding any extra bulk and the casual, laid-back style of it helps to balance out the boldness of the skirt.
This is definitely my favorite piece from Frank & Eileen…and it’s absolutely perfect for summer!
XOXO,
Scotti
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