For all my non-fashionistas out there: I get it. You think white button-downs are boring, overused, and -- dare I say -- stuffy! But the truth is, that couldn't be FURTHER from the truth. Sure, your mom wore them back in the day AND still does, but that doesn't make them "old-fashioned." In fact, it makes them a classic. Here's how to upgrade this no-fail staple for 2017.
While I love wearing my white button-downs solo, you can never go wrong with layering. A lace mesh fusion jacket is effortlessly modern and oh-so gorgeous. I snagged this unique zip-up from an Elie Tahari sample sale in the fall, and I have been in love with it ever since. Pairing it with such a timeless top juxtaposes its delicate edginess and creates a truly eye-popping combo.
I'm here to tell you that button-downs (or is it button-ups...?) don't have to be worn with dress pants. In fact, some would argue they look BETTER when paired with denim or more casual bottoms like leather leggings. To urbanize my ensemble, I chose to wear my go-to pair of dark-wash skinny jeans. And guess what? I can STILL wear this outfit to work or to cocktail hour. Mission = accomplished.
Here is the portion of this blog post where I discuss the amazingness that is the white blouse. I can't stress enough how essential this baby is; they're not just for bankers, I repeat, they're not just for bankers! Worn tucked in, tucked out, over, under, buttoned, unbuttoned, oversized, cropped, etc., this piece is one must-have top that will never let you down. So don't be scared to wear it - it's all in the styling!
Putting a positive spin on "winter blues," I wore my cobalt pointed-toe loafers as a way to inject some major coolness into my look. These Tibi shoes may be too pointy for some people's liking (cough cough, Dad, cough), but I happen to think they're the bee's knees. Even better, they're beyond comfy!
Classic piece: check, edgy factor: check, pop of color: check. This Rebecca Minkoff bag allowed me to check off my "bold print" checkbox, thus giving me a well-balanced ensemble. Let's not forget it only increases the street credibility of my buttoned up blouse too.
Chic sunnies are a must - even in the depths of winter. These make me feel super polished and pulled together. Can you say movie-star status?
Alexis Bittar is one of my very favorite jewelry designers and I am absolutely in love with these earrings of his. Their translucent purple color is pure magic and I love how the tips are dipped in silver.
Did anyone notice my hair makeover? I got balayage highlights for the first time eva! TBH though, they're not EXACTLY how I pictured they'd turn out (I'm aiming for a more all-over blonde look) so I kind of want to go back and get more done. Does anyone have recommendations for me? Are foil highlights best, or should I stick with balayage? Enlighten me in the comments section below!
Have I convinced you yet that white button-downs are Queen? If not, no worries. Maybe these lovely ladies can help persuade you...
See how she wears hers with dark skinnies, red lipstick, and nude sandals? Genius, right? This beauty styled hers with denim and loafers - LOVE! And paired with boyfriend jeans? Brilliant!
Photos by Dan Harper
[jacket: Elie Tahari (similar here) // blouse: Ann Taylor // jeans: Gap // shoes: Tibi (I also like this style) // purse: Rebecca Minkoff (I also like this one) // sunglasses: Ann Taylor (I also like this pair) // earrings: Alexis Bittar // eyeshadow: Urban Decay smoky palette // lipstick: Clinique's Bare Pop]
I don't repeat outfits super often in the same season, but when I do, it's because I REALLY love it! And yep, this particular look has seen the light of day multiple times in the past few months. It's something I feel confident in but also sexy and put-together. I challenge you to style a white button-down in a way that makes YOU feel that way! Yes, I just gave you homework ;)
// SHOP //
You and your pictures are beautiful! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat outfit darling! Love the jacket! xoxo
ReplyDeleteVesna - Home Chic Club
I'm honestly in love with your jacket! It styles up the outfit and the white blouse perfectly, definitely keeps it from being boring! x
ReplyDelete|Georgia Megan|
Right from your first picture I was like "WOW'! Such a fabulous outfit! I agree button-up blouses are so classic but I love how you made yours so edgy! That jacket is spectacular and how amazing that you found it at a sample sale! Such a great find! I am loving your new hair! I love the lightened look. I have only ever gotten foil highlights before and I like them. They usually are a bit bolder though but I like that.
ReplyDeleteRebecca
www.winnipegstyle.ca/blog
Great look!
ReplyDeleteI'm loving the Balayage on you Kat! You can definitely go more blonde or leave it as is because it looks really pretty. As for the lace jacket layered over the white shirt = perfection! Hope you're doing well girl! :)
ReplyDeleteI love white button downs! Such a closet staple!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.elementsofellis.com/