After traveling across Europe and the U.S. this summer, I’ve found the singular outfit combination that’s universal to nearly every stylish person out there: a simple tank top or T-shirt paired with a button-down shirt. Whether you’re wearing this foolproof look with jeans, running shorts, or a maxi skirt, the timeless dress-shirt layering look is perfect for a polished yet simple outfit formula, especially in between the seasons.
As summer slowly starts to set and shoppers begin their hunt for cool fall pieces, the button-down–and–T-shirt combo has never looked better. If you’re looking for an outfit that’ll seamlessly work in transitional weather, look no further.
Below, browse some inspiration on how to style a simple button-down with a tank top or T-shirt, and then shop our favorite transitional pieces for the season ahead.
How to style: White button-down + khaki pants + white tank top + heeled black sandals + black belt
Madewell
Plus Easy Y-Neck Button-Up Shirt
Nordstrom
Pima Cotton Blend Crewneck T-Shirt
Nordstrom
Double Loop Trouser Belt
Madewell
The Plus Harlow Wide-Leg Pant in Drapey Twill
Steve Madden
Tracie Black Crocodile Thong Strap Kitten Hee
How to style: White button-down + white T-shirt + black maxi skirt + black slingbacks + thin leather belt
French Connection
Alexis Cotton Poplin Button-Up Shirt
Favorite Daughter
The Favorite Organic Cotton T-Shirt
COS
Linen A-Line Maxi Skirt
Jeffrey Campbell
Persona Slingback Pump
How to style: Striped button-down + white tank top + Adidas shorts + loafers
Reformation
Will Oversized Shirt
Nordstrom
Rib Scoop Neck Cotton Tank
Adidas
Adicolor Classics Sprinter Shorts
G.H.Bass
Whitney Leather Loafer
How to style: White button-down + white T-shirt + black capri pants + skinny bag + strappy mules
Mango
Relaxed Fit Button-Up Shirt
Alaïa
Le Teckel Small Leather Shoulder Bag
Mango
Buckle Leather Sandals
How to style: White button-down + white T-shirt + gray trousers + brown leather belt + brown sandals
H&M
Oversized Cotton Shirt
Forever 21
Cotton Crew Tee
Nordstrom
Rebecca Croc Embossed Belt
Steve Madden
Marnie Flip Flops
How to style: Baby-blue button-down + white T-shirt + white denim maxi skirt + black leather belt
Everlane
The Must-Have Oxford Shirt
Nordstrom
Relaxed Fit Pima Cotton Crewneck T-Shirt
Afrm
Amiri Maxi Pencil Skirt With Back Slit
Madewell
Chunky Metal Leather Belt
How to style: Blue button-down + white T-shirt + slouchy jeans + black sweater draped over shoulders
COS
Oversized Tailored Shirt
Zara
Z1975 High Rise Long Length Straight Cut Jeans
Treasure & Bond
Crewneck Raglan Cotton Blend Sweater
How to style: Striped button-down + white T-shirt + black slip skirt + black sandals
Reformation
Eli Oversized Shirt
Madewell
Supima Cotton Rib T-Shirt
J.Crew
Gwyneth Slip Skirt
Steve Madden
Hadyn Black Leather Sanda