Not Everyone Needs a White Button Down
Not a white button-down person? That’s ok! Here are other workwear tops that can still get the job done.
Every list says you need a white button-down. Natalie says: not necessarily. In this episode, she shares versatile alternatives to wear under blazers and other layers . . . or solo, so your workwear foundation actually reflects your personal style while aligning to the dress expectations.
Episode Notes & Resources:
Check out our 'Core'drobe Style Guide to help you create your own unique wardrobe foundation
Join BU Style Circle to get more style resources, live Q&A sessions with Natalie, and more
Submit your style questions to be answered in a future Nat Chat
READ THE FULL & RAW EPISODE TRANSCRIPT:
[00:00]
Hello friends, welcome back to another Nat Chat of Wear Who You Are. As you know, I’m answering your questions. There’s always a Google form where you can submit them, you can slide into my DMs, or send them however you’d like. I’m here to answer your style questions, so let’s hop right to it.
[00:32]
This question comes from Ali L. in Illinois, say that ten times fast, Ali L. from Illinois, Ali L. from Illinois. Okay, I’m ready for Broadway.
[00:46]
Her question is, “I hate button-downs. What are some other basic tops I can wear with blazers and layers?” I love this question because it brings up something that has irked me since I started in this business, the must-have list of wardrobe essentials. I’ve had so many clients say, “I know I’m supposed to get a white button-down,” or the first time I look through their closets they tell me, “I read that I’m supposed to have this, but I don’t like it, I never wear it.”
[01:22]
So I am here to give you permission to say hell no to a wardrobe essential that doesn’t feel like you. I believe in the concept of a core’drobe. A core’drobe is what works with the core of you, your core essentials. The goal isn’t a button-down, the goal is to have something that works with your layers and works for you. The goal isn’t the piece, the goal is the function.
[01:54]
With that, let’s talk specifically about the white button-down, or button-downs in general. So many of my professional clients say, “Okay, well I tried it in silk and I didn’t like it.” If it’s not you, it’s not you, and that’s fine. If it is you, amazing, you have a lot of options. But for those who don’t resonate with the button-down as a must-have list item, there are great alternatives.
[02:23]
Elevated T-shirts are a big one. There are so many great options now in slightly heavier weights, or blends that include silk or other fabrics that give them more drape. They’re everywhere and they’re great, easy layering pieces. A fitted ribbed knit is another option, or maybe a vest shell. Silk or satin shells are one of my go-tos, I used them over and over for clients, and even when I was at Bloomberg TV.
[02:55]
There’s a great option from Ann Taylor that’s woven in the front and knit in the back, so it gives you some shape, it’s always on sale, and it works with almost everything. This is especially great for clients who don’t want a high neck or a collared shirt. You can also look at soft, structured mock necks or turtlenecks, thin sweaters, or a clean draped blouse, maybe with a tie detail. If you like the idea of a button-down but not the collar, there are collarless options with a full button front or a partial placket, where it buttons just a few inches down.
[03:34]
The goal here is to understand what necklines you like. If you’re asking, “What is my version of a white button-down?” start there. Do you prefer a crew neck, scoop neck, square neck, or V-neck? Do you like turtlenecks or mock necks? Then think about sleeves. Are you comfortable taking your jacket off and wearing something sleeveless? If yes, great. If not, if you prefer your arms covered, that helps guide your choices.
[04:08]
Next, consider what you’re layering with. Are you wearing more blazers, cardigans, or light jackets? What lengths are those layers, and what looks best with them? Then look at what bottoms you’re pairing with these pieces. Are you wearing trousers? Is this for business casual? These details help you eliminate options and clarify what actually works for you.
[04:36]
So instead of relying on what someone says you must have, you know what you need and what works for you.
[04:47]
A couple of additional resources for you, we’ve created a core’drobe style guide, which is linked in the show notes. It includes different ideas for what your version of a white button-down could be, and we update it regularly. Hopefully it gives you some inspiration.
[05:02]
This is such an important question, so if you have other “must-have” pieces you want alternatives for, or want help shopping for them, send them my way. Thanks again, have a great day, and I’ll see you next time.