The white linen button up is the version of a classic shirt that actually works in real life. Here are five ways I’ve been wearing mine this season and why it goes with so much more than you think.
I know the white button-up shirt has been a wardrobe staple forever but the traditional version can be really frustrating to actually wear. It gaps, it wrinkles the second you sit down, and it’s stiffer than you want when it’s 80 degrees outside. The short sleeve linen version fixes all of that. It has the same polished, put-together look with fabric that breathes, relaxes on your body, and actually feels good to wear. I’ve been reaching for mine on repeat and I want to show you all the ways it works.
Outfit 1: White Button-Up Top + White Jeans
White on white might feel like too much but it is not. This is one of my favorite spring pairings. A linen top tucked into white wide-leg or straight-leg jeans is such a clean, polished look. Tan or camel accessories break it up just enough, think a woven bag and simple sandals. This is the outfit I wear when I want to look like I have it together with minimal effort.
Why it works: The texture of the eyelet keeps an all-white outfit interesting and elevated without adding color.
WHITE ANTHRO TOP | WHITE TARGET JEANS | MADEWELL BELT | SIMILAR HEELS| SIMILAR BAG
Outfit 2: White Button-Up Top + Light Wash Shorts + Sandals
This is the everyday version. A relaxed denim short in a light wash, your white top half-tucked, and a simple flat sandal. It’s casual enough for school pickup or running errands but put-together enough that you won’t feel underdressed anywhere. A small bag, a colorful necklace if you want it, and you’re good to go.
Why it works: The top adds texture and intention to a simple jeans-and-sandals combo that would otherwise feel too basic.
WHITE ANTHOR TOP |TARGET SHORTS |SANDALS | QUINCE BAG
Outfit 3: Linen Button Up (Unbuttoned) + Swimsuit + Linen Shorts
This is my favorite casual way to wear it. Leave the button up open over a swimsuit, pair it with linen shorts, and add flat sandals. It’s effortlessly cool without trying to be. The open shirt acts almost like a lightweight jacket and it’s such an easy formula for everyday summer dressing.
Why it works: Layering an open linen shirt over a tank gives you polish without warmth, which is exactly what you need in the summer.
ANTHRO WHITE TOP | BLACK ANDIE SWIMSUIT | ATHLETA SHORTS | REEF SANDALS | MADEWELL HAT | SIMILAR BAG
Outfit 4: Linen Button Up + A Floral or Print Maxi Skirt
This is the dressier version and it’s so good. A print or floral maxi skirt with the linen button up either tucked in fully or knotted at the waist gives you a complete feminine look that works for brunch, a wedding shower, or a night out. Block heeled sandals or strappy flats depending on how dressed up you want to go. Keep the jewelry minimal because the skirt is doing plenty.
Why it works: A simple white linen top gives a bold skirt the clean foundation it needs to shine without competing.
WHITE ANTHRO TOP | ANTHRO SKIRT | JELLY SANDALS | SWEATER | SIMILAR BAG
The white linen short sleeve button up is the version of a classic shirt that I actually want to wear. It works in the heat, it relaxes into your body instead of fighting it, and it goes with more things in your closet than you’d expect. Start with white since it’s the most versatile and I think you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly.
