The notion that white shirts are solely for formal events is a myth that’s long been debunked. In today’s fashion landscape, a white shirt has evolved into a staple piece in many men’s wardrobes, capable of effortlessly transitioning between styles and trends. Gone are the days when a white shirt was only reserved for special occasions; it can now be spotted on high streets, beaches, and everywhere in between. Its versatility is what makes it a wardrobe essential for modern men.
How to Wear a White Shirt in Different Ways
When shopping for a white button-down shirt, keep these key points in mind. For formal occasions, opt for a plain white one over self-printed or striped options. Make sure the shirt fits you well, and if not, consider taking it to a tailor for alterations. In terms of footwear, your white shirt can be dressed down with sneakers for a relaxed look or paired with classic accessories like a wristwatch for a more polished appearance.
As a wardrobe staple, a white button-down shirt is versatile enough to be worn on both formal and semi-formal occasions. For the latter, you can match it with chinos or jeans, tuck it in, roll up the sleeves, and you’re ready to go. Wearing a tie is also an option for semi-formal events. In addition to its versatility, having a white button-down shirt simplifies your morning routine, as there’s no need to spend too much time thinking about what to wear.
However, be aware that the color white can show dirt, stains, and dust easily, especially when spending time outdoors. To maintain the quality of your shirt, use gentle soap when washing, iron it after drying, and hang or fold it properly. This post will explore different ways to style your white button-down shirt, including suggestions for trousers, footwear, and accessories that complement your chosen look.
↓ 33. With Casual Blazers For Reunions
When a former classmate invites you to a reunion party, the excitement is palpable! As you start planning your outfit, consider a versatile and stylish option – a casual blazer. Whether it’s a solid color or a patterned one like plaid, a white dress shirt underneath will create a timeless look that exudes confidence. To add a touch of personality to your ensemble, throw in an optional pocket square for added flair.
↓ 32. With a Cream Suit
For men with a penchant for sophistication, this style of fashion is the perfect choice for dressing up. Whether attending a wedding or christening, a premiere, or even a corporate event, this look exudes refinement and elegance. It’s not uncommon to see well-dressed gentlemen sporting this outfit at car shows, too – a nod to their appreciation for fine automobiles.
The beauty of this style lies in its versatility; by simply removing the tie and pocket square, it can easily transition from formal to semi-formal attire, making it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions.
↓ 31. With Grey Chinos
When it comes to dressing down, simplicity can be key. Consider pairing a plain white or gray shirt with neutral-colored chinos or trousers. This versatile combination can easily transition from a business-casual workplace setting to a casual outing with friends. The key is to swap out your footwear to match the occasion. For instance, dress shoes are better suited for the office, while sneakers or sandals would be more fitting for a relaxed evening at the movies.
↓ 30. With Black Slacks
In addition to the previous guidelines on dressing professionally for a workplace, it’s essential to note that certain nuances exist within the realm of business casual attire. A fundamental aspect of this style is the requirement for sleeves to remain unrolled at all times. Furthermore, the topmost button of one’s shirt should be kept closed, unless explicitly permitted by a superior or as part of a specific corporate culture.
↓ 29. With a Black Suit
When it comes to formal attire, there’s no style more enduring than a man in black. While traditional choices might include boots or dress shoes, why not add a touch of flair by opting for sleek and stylish kicks instead? In fact, a pair of black kicks can perfectly complement the rest of the outfit, elevating the overall look from classic to cutting-edge.
↓ 28. With Plaid Pants
When it comes to dressing for shorter men, vertical prints on pants can be a game-changer. While they won’t actually add inches to their stature, they can create an illusion of height. For a stylish and confident look, pair these printed pants with a crisp white shirt. Consider unbuttoning the top half to showcase your chest and accentuate your physique. To complete the outfit, roll up the sleeves for a touch of sophistication. This versatile ensemble is perfect for spring and summer wear.
↓ 27. With a Camel Peacoat
Elevate your style with a versatile peacoat that can be worn in various ways. Combine it with a crisp white shirt for a classic look, and pair it with ripped jeans for a stylish contrast. This outfit is equally flattering on any guy. For more inspiration, explore the different ways to wear a peacoat, from casual to dressy, and make it your own.
↓ 26. With an Earth Toned Sweater
Elevate your casual street style by layering a crisp white shirt under a lightweight brown sweater. Pair this combo with comfortable pants and sneakers to create a chic outfit that’s perfect for everyday errands, a casual date, or just running around town.
↓ 25. With Blue Slacks
For men who have reached a certain level of maturity, the color blue can surprisingly work in their favor by giving off a youthful impression. This versatile smart-casual style is perfect for social gatherings with colleagues, old friends, or even acquaintances. To take your outfit to the next level, carefully select a watch and shoes that harmonize with your overall look, taking into account the occasion you’re attending.
These thoughtful details can make all the difference in presenting yourself confidently and stylishly.
↓ 24. With Tailored Chinos
For men who prefer a tailored fit in their shirts, consider pairing a slim-fit white button-down with skinny jeans or chinos. To achieve a streamlined look, tuck the shirt into your pants and roll up the sleeves. Complete the outfit with loafers or slip-on shoes to keep things effortless. You can also skip socks altogether and show off your ankles for a stylish touch. For more tips on dressing sockless, check out our comprehensive guide.
↓ 23. With a Green Trench Coat
If you’re looking for ways to spice up your everyday white shirt and jeans combo, consider adding an overcoat to give your outfit some extra flair. A green trench coat, in particular, can add a chic touch to your overall look, making it perfect for incorporating into your winter wardrobe.
↓ 22. Smart Casual Look
When it comes to dressing up, men who take the time to groom their beards and hairstyles tend to make a more stylish impression. For a sharp look, pair a crisp white shirt with chinos that are neatly tucked in to highlight your accessory game. A key takeaway is to maintain consistency across your outfit by sticking with a single color theme for your belt, shoes, and other accessories like watches and sunglasses. This approach will help create a cohesive and polished overall appearance.
↓ 21. White Shirt With a Blue Suit
A timeless classic, a well-tailored blue suit paired with a crisp white dress shirt is a versatile ensemble that can elevate any man’s style. This sophisticated combination works equally well on men of all ages, from young professionals to seasoned executives. The beauty of this look lies in its simplicity – the absence of socks or carefully chosen minimalist footwear allows the focus to be on the quality of the suit and the wearer’s confidence.
When paired with white sneakers, the overall effect is understated yet put-together, perfect for a day out or a special occasion.
↓ 20. Athleisure
Athleisure wear has become increasingly popular as it seamlessly transitions from athletic settings to casual occasions. The versatility of this style is undeniable, making it a staple in many people’s wardrobes. To create a chic athleisure look, combine a crisp white shirt with comfortable jogging pants or sweatpants.
While a blazer can add a touch of sophistication, it may not be the most practical choice for high-intensity activities – you don’t want to risk ruining your outfit when you’re in the midst of a sweaty workout. Instead, opt for sleek white sneakers to complete this stylish ensemble and take it from gym to street with ease.
↓ 19. Precious Gold
When dressing to impress, men often overlook the power of a well-chosen suit. The rich, vibrant hue of a navy blue or dark gray ensemble is not only stylish but also imbued with psychological significance. It’s said that this color combination represents inner wisdom, quality, and even wealth. By donning a suit in these tones, you’ll exude confidence and sophistication, making you the man-of-the-hour.
So, take a cue from the wise and stylishly dressed men of yesteryear – opt for a classic, high-quality suit that’s sure to make a lasting impression.
↓ 18. Summer Vibe
When the scorching summer heat becomes unbearable, it’s essential to prioritize comfort while dressing. Opt for lightweight fabrics that will help keep you cool and dry. For instance, if you’re heading to the beach in a white shirt, consider wearing it with the buttons undone and sleeves rolled up to allow for maximum airflow. Pair this with shorts or sweatpants for a comfortable and practical outfit.
↓ 17. Business Casual
For a productive Monday morning, consider a versatile outfit that combines style and comfort. A crisp white shirt paired with a crew-neck jumper and finished off with a blazer creates a professional yet relaxed look that’s perfect for the workweek ahead.
↓ 16. Semi-formal
↓ 15 – White Shirt for Formal Dinner Date
Timeless elegance is the hallmark of classic men’s fashion. A crisp white shirt paired with a subtle striped tie and tailored black trousers creates a sophisticated look that exudes confidence. Add a stylish watch and a tasteful tie clip to complete the ensemble. For those looking for inspiration, here are 20 expertly curated outfits for men to wear on a date, sure to make a lasting impression.
↓ 14 – Classy White Shirt with Blazer in Winters
For a stylish yet relaxed look, consider pairing crisp white sneakers with dark denim jeans. This classic combination is perfect for smart-casual occasions, such as a dinner party or a casual get-together with friends. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to wear sneakers in a more dressy setting, check out our comprehensive guide [Ideas for Men to Wear Sneakers]
↓ 13 – Casual Look
Elevate your everyday look by pairing a crisp white shirt with distressed denim jeans and adding a touch of sophistication with brown leather shoes. The contrasting textures and styles create a visually appealing and effortlessly cool outfit perfect for a casual day out.
↓ 12 – Evening Style
Pairing a crisp white dress shirt with grey suit trousers is an excellent foundation for a stylish outfit. To take it to the next level, consider adding a black tie and matching black oxford shoes. The sleek, monochromatic color scheme will create a sharp, put-together look that’s perfect for formal events or professional settings. For even more inspiration on how to style a dress shirt, be sure to check out our guide to 16 Ways to Style Check Shirts.
↓ 11 – How to Wear White Shirt with Shorts
For those looking to dress casually yet stylishly for their summer vacations, consider pairing a crisp white shirt with dark navy shorts. This classic combination is elevated by the addition of blue and brown boat shoes and a coordinating brown belt. The resulting outfit exudes effortless sophistication, making it perfect for a day spent exploring new destinations or simply lounging by the water.
↓ 10 – Different Ways to Wear a White Oxford Shirt in Summers
To achieve the perfect style for a white oxford dress shirt, we’ve put together a comprehensive step-by-step guide that’s now available in a concise and easy-to-follow video format. By following this visual tutorial, you’ll be able to master the art of styling your white oxford dress shirt with confidence.
↓ 9 – Street Style in White Button-Down Shirt
For a winning combination, consider pairing white shirts with black suit trousers, black smart shoes, and braces for a stylish look that’s elevated by the addition of a suit jacket and finishing touch of sunglasses. This ensemble is versatile enough to be dressed up or down, making it an excellent choice for a day out in the city during the summer months.
Alternatively, opt for a simple yet chic look that incorporates a white shirt with navy trousers and blue plimsoles.
The matching jacket adds a touch of sophistication, while sunglasses provide a sleek finish. This outfit is perfect for a traveling companion or a casual day out.
If you want to add some personality to your look, try pairing a white shirt with blue trousers and brown brogues. The contrasting colors create a visually appealing combination that’s sure to turn heads.
↓ 8 – How to Layer Under Your White Shirt for Fall
There’s an undeniable charm to wearing a crisp white shirt, particularly as the Fall season approaches and the need for blazers or coats becomes less pressing. To elevate your style without sacrificing comfort, consider pairing your white shirt with a grey tee. This effortless combination can instantly add a touch of sophistication while keeping you cozy on chilly days.
For an added pop of personality, leave a few buttons undone and complete the look with white sneakers and boldly patterned socks.
↓ 7 – Which White Shirt to Wear to the Beach
The quintessential patterned white shirt is a timeless choice for both casual beachwear and elegant evening attire. Its lightweight design makes it an ideal addition to any summer wardrobe, perfect for staying cool on warm days.
↓6 – What Suit to Wear with White Shirt
For warm-weather events like summer weddings or parties, an off-white suit paired with a crisp white shirt is an excellent choice. Add some visual interest by introducing contrasting elements – think a dark brown belt and brown suede oxford shoes. For more inspiration, explore the world of men’s suits with 30 Amazing Men’s Suits Combinations to Get Sharp Look. Another versatile option is a casually tailored greyish suit paired with a white shirt and sleek white sneakers.
The undone top buttons create a comfortable and relaxed look that’s perfect for everyday wear or dress-down occasions. This smart yet understated combination allows you to easily adapt the outfit for various events.
↓ 5 – How to Wear a White Shirt to a Wedding
For a stylish wedding guest outfit, consider pairing a crisp white shirt with wide strap braces and a matching tie. This classic combination exudes sophistication. Alternatively, make a fashion statement by wearing a white shirt with an electric blue blazer and slim-fitting pants. Complete the look with sleek black oxfords.
To achieve this ensemble without breaking the bank, head to Macy’s and explore their Men’s Bar III collection.
With careful selection, you can put together a complete outfit for under $180.
↓ 4- Swag Style
Crafting a stylish city look requires a thoughtful combination of pieces. Start by pairing a crisp white shirt with clean-fitting blue jeans, then add a touch of sophistication with a checkered jacket. To ground the outfit, opt for a pair of brown brogues that complement the earthy tones in the clothing. Finally, top off the look with a pair of shades that add a dash of cool to the overall ensemble.
↓ 3- White and Waistcoat
A classic combination of a white shirt, black waistcoat, and blue jeans is a timeless formula for a stylish look. The addition of sunglasses brings a touch of casual elegance, while a brown tie injects a pop of color. For inspiration on how to style your waistcoat in different ways, be sure to check out our related article: 18 Ways to Style Men Waist Coat.
↓ 2- Wear Bow Tie with it
Pairing a waistcoat with jeans and a crisp white shirt creates a stylish and casual ensemble that’s perfect for students or anyone looking for a smart-casual attire. The addition of a dickie bow adds a playful touch, elevating the outfit from ordinary to extraordinary. For those who want to take their bow tie game to the next level, check out our guides on how to make a bow tie and 16 ways to wear it.
↓ 1 – The Classic White Shirt Outfits for Work
Elevate your professional attire by pairing a crisp white shirt with silver tie and tailored suit trousers. This timeless combination exudes formality, perfect for a business setting. But, simply rolling up the sleeves of that same outfit instantly injects a laid-back charm, making it suitable for a more casual gathering or after-work social event.
