Button down blouses have long been a staple in women’s wardrobes for their versatility and classic, polished look. A button down blouse can be worn for various occasions and dressed up or down with the right accessories.
In this blog post, we will explore the history, styles, and variations of button down blouses and offer tips on how to wear and accessorize them.
So if you’re looking to add a classic piece to your wardrobe, a button down blouse is a must-have.
What is a button down blouse?
A button down blouse is a type of women’s top with a collar with buttons that fasten down the front of the shirt. Button down blouses are typically tailored and have a slim, sleek fit.
They are versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down and are often worn for work or formal occasions. Button down blouses are made in various materials, colors, and patterns and can be paired with multiple bottoms, including dress pants, skirts, and skirts.
History of the button down blouses
The button down blouse has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s. It is believed that the style was first introduced by John E. Brooks, the son of the founder of Brooks Brothers, who the shirts worn by polo players inspired. These shirts had buttons on the collar that kept it from flapping around while the game was going on.
The button down blouse quickly gained popularity among the preppy; Ivy League set and has remained a classic wardrobe staple ever since.
In the decades following its introduction, the button down blouse has undergone numerous style updates and variations.
Today, button down blouses can be found in a wide range of materials, colors, and patterns and are worn by women of all ages and styles.
Styles and Variations
When it comes to button down blouses, there are endless styles and variations to choose from. Some popular styles include:
- Traditional button down blouse: This is the classic style that features a button down collar and a tailored fit. It is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down and is perfect for work or casual occasions.
- Oversized button down blouse: This style features a looser, more relaxed fit and is great for a laid-back, casual look. It can be paired with jeans or leggings for a comfortable, stylish outfit.
- Fitted button down blouse: For a more polished, formal look, a fitted button down blouse is a great choice. It features a slim, tailored fit that pairs well with dress pants or a skirt.
- Long sleeve button down blouse: A long sleeve button down blouse is a type of women’s top with long sleeves and a collar with buttons that fasten down the front of the shirt. Long sleeve button-down blouses are a versatile and stylish wardrobe staple that can be worn for various occasions, from casual to formal.
Cotton, silk, and linen are all popular choices, as are solid colors, prints, and patterns. No matter your personal style, there is a button-down blouse to suit your taste.
How to wear a button down blouse
A button down blouse is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Here are some tips on how to wear a button down blouse:
- For a professional look, pair a traditional button down blouse with dress pants or a skirt. Add a blazer or cardigan for an extra layer of sophistication.
- For a casual, laid-back look, pair an oversized button down blouse with jeans or leggings. Add sneakers or sandals for a relaxed, comfortable outfit.
- Dress up a fitted button down blouse with a skirt or dress pants and heels for a formal occasion.
In addition to choosing the right style of button down blouse for the occasion, accessorizing can also make a big impact. A belt can define the waist and add a pop of color, while a statement necklace or pair of earrings can add some glamour. Experiment with different accessories to find the look that works best for you.
How to style a button down blouse?
Here are a few tips on how to style a button down blouse:
- Layer it: Button down blouses are great for layering. Pair them with a sweater or cardigan for cooler weather, or layer them under a jacket or blazer for a polished, professional look.
- Tuck it in: Tucking a button down blouse into a pair of dress pants or a skirt can create a sleek, polished look that’s perfect for the office or a formal event.
- Knot it: For a casual, laid-back look, try knotting the front of your button down blouse. This can add a touch of effortless style to your outfit and help to define your waist.
- Accessorize it: Adding accessories such as a statement necklace, earrings, or a belt can help to elevate your button down blouse and add a touch of personal style to your outfit.
- Experiment with colors and patterns: Button down blouses come in many colors and patterns, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your outfits. Pair a bold, patterned blouse with a solid-colored bottom to create a balanced, eye-catching look.
- Mix and match: Button down blouses are versatile pieces that can be easily dressed up or down. Try pairing them with different bottoms, such as jeans, chinos, dress pants, or skirts, to create various looks.
Button down blouse outfit ideas
Here are a few outfit ideas featuring a button down blouse:
- Business casual: Pair a classic, tailored button down blouse with dress pants and loafers for a professional, business casual look. Add a blazer or cardigan for an extra layer of sophistication.
- Weekend casual: For a laid-back, casual look, pair an oversized button down blouse with jeans or leggings and sneakers or sandals.
- Formal event: Dress up a fitted button down blouse with a skirt or dress pants and heels for a formal occasion. Add a statement necklace or earrings for an extra touch of glamour.
- Office chic: Pair a button down blouse with a pencil skirt and ankle boots for a chic, stylish look that’s perfect for the office.
- Everyday casual: For an everyday casual look, pair a button down blouse with jeans or chinos and sneakers or loafers. Layer with a sweater or cardigan for cooler weather.
- Date night: Dress up a button down blouse with a pair of dress pants or a skirt and heels for a stylish date night outfit. Add a belt to define the waist and add a pop of color.
Are button down shirts out of style?
Button down shirts are a classic wardrobe staple that have been popular for decades and are not out of style.
Button down shirts are versatile and timeless pieces that can be worn for various occasions, from casual to formal. They can be dressed up or down with the right accessories and pair well with different bottoms, including jeans, dress pants, and skirts.
Button down shirts are available in a few different styles, materials, and colors, so there is a shirt to suit every personal style.
Whether you prefer a traditional, tailored fit or a more relaxed, oversized silhouette, there is a button down shirt to suit your taste.
As such, button down shirts are a versatile and stylish choice that is here to stay.
Read Also: Fashion Advice to See You Into 2023.
How to tie a button down blouse?
There are a few different ways that you can tie a button down blouse to add some flair to your outfit:
- Knot the ends of the blouse: If you have a longer button down blouse, you can tie the ends in a knot to create a cropped, more fitted look. This is a simple and easy way to change up the silhouette of your blouse.
- Create a bow: Another option is to create a bow by folding the ends of the blouse and tying them together. This creates a feminine and playful look that is perfect for a casual, summery outfit.
- Wrap the blouse around your waist: If you have a shorter button down blouse, you can wrap it around your waist and tie the ends together to create a more fitted, cinched look. This is a great way to add some shape to a boxy or oversized blouse.
- Tie the blouse at the back: For a more elegant and formal look, you can tie the blouse at the back by crossing the ends over each other and securing them with a knot. This creates a sleek, sophisticated silhouette that is perfect for a formal occasion.
Plus size button down blouses
Plus-size button down blouses are a stylish and versatile wardrobe staple for women with larger sizes. They are available in different styles, materials, and patterns and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Some tips for finding the perfect plus-size button down blouse include the following:
- Look for blouses with a relaxed fit: If you prefer a more casual, laid-back look, opt for a plus-size button down blouse with a comfortable fit. This will provide plenty of room for movement and comfort.
- Choose a blouse with stretch: A button down blouse with a little bit of stretch can be more comfortable and provide a better fit. Look for blouses made with stretchy materials like spandex or lycra.
- Pay attention to the collar: A button down blouse with a collar that is too small or too large can be unflattering. Look for a collar that fits well and complements your face shape.
- Consider the length: If you prefer a longer blouse, look for a style that falls at or below the hips. This can be more flattering and provide coverage in the areas you are most comfortable with.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a plus-size button down blouse that fits and flatters your figure.
Conclusion
Button down blouses are a classic wardrobe staple that can be worn for a few different occasions. From the traditional style to oversized and fitted variations, there is a button down blouse to suit every personal style.
By following the tips on how to wear and accessorize a button down blouse, you can confidently rock this versatile piece in any setting. Feel free to experiment with different styles and variations to find the perfect button down blouse for you.
