5 Button-Down Shirts That Make Jeans Look Better

Jeans are one of those fashion trends that never goes out of style, every season, denim always finds its way back. But where the challenge lies, is finding new ways to wear it without feeling like you are repeating the same outfit. A button-down shirt is an easy way to change that.

Aside the traditional classic white shirt everyone wears with jeans, there are other styles and patterns of button down shirts that can give your jeans a different look. From satin to pinstripes, the right shirt can make a pair of jeans look more put together.

Satin Button-Down Shirt

Photo: Pinterest/@ani.maar

Satin brings a smooth glossy texture to an outfit, which makes it a good match for the more rugged feel of denim. The contrast between the two fabrics keeps the outfit from looking plain. A satin shirt works well with straight-leg or dark-wash jeans. For a more relaxed outfit, pair it simple flats or sandals, but if you are going for a casual office setting, pair with pointed-toe heels.

Fitted Button-Down Shirt

Photo: Pinterest/@brooke

A fitted button-down shirt gives jeans a more defined shape, unlike an oversized shirt. It sits closer to the body and brings attention to the waist. This style works well with wide-leg and baggy jeans because the closer fit on top balances the extra volume below. It can also work with straight-leg jeans for a cleaner look. You can also add a belt, simple jewellery and loafers or heels to complete the outfit.

Plaid Button-Down Shirt

Photo: Pinterest/@Be Daze Live

Plaid adds pattern to an otherwise simple jeans outfit. Choose a fitted plaid shirt with light-blue or grey jeans. Straight-leg denim works well here. Finish the outfit with loafers, sneakers or ankle boots. You can leave the shirt partly unbuttoned over a simple tank top.

Gingham Button-Down Shirt

Photo: Pinterest/@ amie alden

Gingham can look similar to plaid, but the two are not quite the same. Gingham has smaller, more even checks, made from two colors, while plaid tends to have different lines and patterns crossing each other. This makes gingham feel a little cleaner and less busy. This type of button-down shirt fits well with both straight-leg and wide-leg jeans. You can keep the styling simple with mesh ballet flats, sneakers, or loafers.

Pinstripe Button-Down Shirt

Photo: Pinterest/@Evi

Pinstripes shirt aren’t meant for plain trousers only, it can also be worn with jeans. The thin vertical lines draw the eye up and down, giving the shirt a longer, cleaner appearance. Style them with straight-leg dark jeans, and pair with sneakers for a simple weekend outfit. You can switch to pumps or sling-back heels when you want it to look more dressed up. The contrast between the dressier shirt and casual denim is what makes the combination work.