Is My Search For The Perfect White Button-Down Over?

Finding a white button-down shirt that actually fits has proven…elusive. It’s been a problem area in my closet for a while now. While I haven’t done an official try-on, side by side (where I order 12 and try them all on, like Linzi’s t-shirt try-on), white button-down shirts are something I often throw in my cart when ordering other pieces, or I happen to be in-store trying something on.

A white button-down is one of those staples that is just part of a classic closet.

And while my style tends to lean a little more edgy than classic, I still appreciate timeless pieces like a good blazer, a beautiful trench coat…and a crisp white button-down.

What Makes The Best White Button-Down Shirt?

I know many of you will have your own criteria for the perfect white shirt (it really comes down to personal preference) but here is my criteria for the perfect white button-down:

• A classic, easy fit without being too oversized
• No gaping at the bust
• 100% cotton (I don’t love those stretchy or drapey blends for a classic white button down)
• A crisp feel without being stiff
• Oh, and French cuffs…always with the longer French cuffs
• Layers well
• Tucks well
• Under $150

Happily, I think I’ve found the one, friends. Finally.

The Best White Button-Down Shirt: Alex Mill x Cup of Jo

Shirt | Jeans | Similar Heels

At first glance, this shirt appears to be the Alex Mill Wyatt shirt, just with an adorable tiny heart embroidered on the sleeve…but after looking closely at the site description for the Alex Mill x Cup of Jo collab I see that it IS the Wyatt shirt, but “a bit roomier with an effortless fit, it has longer cuffs that you can roll up to reveal a cute heart detail.”

I mean, way to go Jo (she’s the best, yeah?). Perfection. Longer cuffs and roomier cut, meaning it actually doesn’t gape for me in the bust. Gah. A first ever. I swear.

Fit Notes: Wearing a size small here. I’m 32DD, 5’4″ and a 6 in fitted tops/dresses typically; 28 in jeans. I must have a wider ribcage because I have so many fit issues with button-downs gaping. Forever. That’s why I love this shirt! More room without being really oversized.

Shirt | Jeans

This one doesn’t lean tuxedo shirt, which isn’t the easy style I need for everyday, nor is it flowy or stretchy.

This shirt layers well. It tucks well. And I just ran my flat iron over some edges to get rid of the main wrinkles from shipping. (My favorite ironing hack…I HATE getting out that dang ironing board, but I HATE really noticeable wrinkles that aren’t from general wear, too.)

Shirt

The price point makes sense to me, too, for what you’re getting. The Cup of Jo shirt is $125 and their more basic shirts range just under $100 to $120. For a shirt that really works, this seems like a good mid-range price tag.

Two Outfit Ideas Featuring A Classic White Button-Down Shirt

While there are tons of ways to style a classic white button-down, here are the two fall outfits I’ll be wearing the most often.

1. Layer A White Button Down Under A Sweater Blazer

Sweater Blazer | Shirt | Jeans | Similar Heels

You may have seen me raving about this sweater blazer on my Instagram last weekend. This shirt layers beautifully underneath and the extra cuff link is just perfection.

The sweater blazer fits TTS, too and I’m wearing a S here. It’s offered in sizes XXS – 3X and is cozy but not drapey. I’ve been asked if it’s itchy, and it’s not to me; while I adore cashmere, I’m not that picky when it comes to sweaters. If you’re gonna style it like this though, with a collared shirt with longer cuffs, it won’t be an issue.

2. Layer A White Button Down Under A Half-Zip Sweater

Sweater | Shirt | Jeans | Similar Heels or Flats

I wanted to try it super preppy–like under my fav La Ligne fisherman style sweater. YUP. LOVING this collar-on-collar situation.

Jeans note: these are the FRAME pair from the NSale and I love them. High-waisted, yet comfy. I sized up to a 29 here and they fit in the waist without being tight around my thighs and hips, which I like.

The Takeaway

This Alex Mill shirt just has the feel of a forever piece for me, but one that isn’t fussy or too bold or too much. That’s why I also ordered it in the blue stripe 😃. I hope you’ve also found your perfect white button down! If not, perhaps give this one a try, too!

Let me know if you’ve tried any of their pieces out from this brand and stay tuned as I check out a few more. Thanks, friends!

xo,

L

Would love to have you follow me over on Instagram @laurajansenstyle for more rad fashion picks, kitchen dance parties, donut reviews and a side of taking things not too seriously, all from Portland, OR.