The classic white button down…a must on my list and hopefully after reading this, yours too!

The white button down is a classic closet must have. It’s a clean, timeless and versatile staple that can be worn day or night and all year round. Very few closet pieces can do the same. Lets face it, many styles come and go, but the perfect white button down will continually remain en vogue. It’s also on every stylist and designer’s top ten must have list. This perfect wardrobe essential can be paired with a pencil skirt and pointy pumps (great for boardroom meetings). Or you can mix it with ripped/distressed denim and heels for a casual look. One of my favorite ensembles (and I have worn it many times) is coupling your white button down with a sophisticated formal skirt. Fabulous and would make Mr. Oscar de la Renta proud! How could we forget Sharon Stone’s memorable Oscar moment when she stepped out in her then husband’s Gap white button down tucked into her lilac Vera Wang evening skirt. Now that look was an award winner (even if she didn’t walk home with the golden statue). This past year, Julia Roberts catapulted a new trend by wearing her Dolce and Gabbana creation that paired the white shirt under a black strapless gown and adored with rhinestone belt (beyond stunning)! Just goes to show you can’t go wrong no matter how you wear it. How about trying it as a beach cover up! The combinations are endless!

 

How to wear

• Looks effortlessly chic by rolling messily up the sleeves and half tucked in denim or another casual pant and a cool belt. Toss on some pearls for some added classic glamour.
• Since it’s a closet staple and can be worn a multitude of ways, this should be a piece you invest in. The cotton should be of good thread count and the buttons should be made of out shell. One of my all time favorite companies when looking for a new white button down is achaten-suisse.com Anne Fontaine, www.annefontaine.com. And of course just head to your local Gap.
• Fit is essential here, you must make sure it fits perfect to your frame. Make sure when you button your shirt, there are no gaps, gathering or awkward folds and the buttons line up straight.

 

• If you choose to invest in a few different styles. Try one with ruffles, French cuffs or in another fabric such as silk or satin.
• The white button down is a perfect plain canvas, now is the time to add a pop of color, with a statement necklace, add a bow tie (why not!) or pull out your favorite silk scarf and toss it around your neck.

Please note, your crisp white shirt should have no stains, wrinkles, yellowing under the arms or cheap buttons. If so, that needs to be relegated to the trash quickly! The key is to look sophisticated not like you slept in it!

As always I hope I have inspired you to look outside your comfort zone and try something new. Empowering YOU makes me beyond happy.

Xo- ck.