What to Wear with Button Up Shirt Guys: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Stephanie Patterson

Stephanie Patterson

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When it comes to dressing up, a button-up shirt is a classic choice that can be worn in many different ways. As someone who has experimented with various styles and trends, I’ve found that a button-up shirt is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

One of the easiest ways to style a button-up shirt is to pair it with jeans. This simple combination can be worn for a casual day out or even a night out with friends. To elevate the look, you can add a blazer or a leather jacket. For a more polished look, tuck in the shirt and add a belt.

Another way to style a button-up shirt is to layer it with a sweater or a cardigan. This is a great option for colder months when you want to stay warm and stylish. You can also experiment with different textures and colors to add some depth to your outfit.

Color Coordination

When it comes to button-up shirts, color coordination is key to creating a stylish and put-together look. Here are some tips on how to coordinate colors:

Complementary Colors

Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel, such as blue and orange or red and green. When pairing a button-up shirt with a tie or pants, consider using complementary colors. For example, a blue shirt pairs well with an orange tie or brown pants. This creates a bold and eye-catching look.

Monochromatic Colors

Monochromatic colors are different shades of the same color. For example, a light blue shirt paired with dark blue pants or a navy tie creates a cohesive and sophisticated look. This is a great option for those who want to keep their outfit understated and simple.

Analogous Colors

Analogous colors are next to each other on the color wheel, such as blue and green or yellow and orange. When pairing a button-up shirt with other clothing items, consider using analogous colors. For example, a green shirt pairs well with brown pants or a yellow tie. This creates a harmonious and balanced look.

Remember to also consider the color of your skin, hair, and eyes when choosing colors to wear. Experiment with different color combinations to find what works best for you and your personal style.

Patterns and Prints

Button-up shirts come in a variety of patterns and prints, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Here are some tips on how to style different patterns and prints:

Solid Colors

Solid-colored button-up shirts are a classic choice that can be dressed up or down. They pair well with a variety of pants, including jeans, chinos, and dress pants. For a casual look, wear a solid-colored shirt untucked with jeans and sneakers. To dress it up, tuck the shirt into dress pants and add a blazer.

Stripes

Vertical stripes can make you appear taller, so if you’re on the shorter side, consider wearing a striped button-up shirt. Horizontal stripes can make you appear wider, so if you’re already broad-shouldered, you may want to avoid them. When wearing a striped shirt, pair it with solid-colored pants to avoid a clash of patterns.

Checks

Checks come in a variety of sizes and colors, making them a versatile pattern to wear. When wearing a checkered shirt, choose pants in a coordinating color. For example, if your shirt has blue and white checks, wear navy pants. If you’re feeling bold, you can mix patterns by wearing a checkered shirt with a striped tie.

Floral Prints

Floral prints are a great way to add some color and personality to your outfit. When wearing a floral shirt, keep the rest of your outfit simple. Pair it with solid-colored pants and shoes in a coordinating color. If you’re not sure how to style a floral shirt, start with a small print and work your way up to larger prints as you become more comfortable.

Layering

When it comes to dressing up with a button-up shirt, layering is a great way to add depth and dimension to your outfit. Layering can help you create a polished, put-together look while also keeping you warm and comfortable. Here are some layering ideas to help you create a stylish outfit.

Jackets and Blazers

Adding a jacket or blazer over your button-up shirt can take your outfit from casual to formal in an instant. A well-fitted blazer can make you look sharp and professional, while a denim jacket can make you look stylish and edgy. When choosing a jacket or blazer, consider the color and style of your button-up shirt. A neutral-colored jacket or blazer can complement any shirt color, while a patterned jacket or blazer can add some personality to your outfit.

• Pair a navy blazer with a white button-up shirt and khaki pants for a classic look.
• Wear a leather jacket over a black button-up shirt and jeans for a sleek, edgy look.
• Layer a denim jacket over a plaid button-up shirt and chinos for a casual, laid-back look.

Sweaters and Cardigans

Sweaters and cardigans are another great layering option. They can add warmth and texture to your outfit while also making you look stylish. When choosing a sweater or cardigan, consider the material and color. A wool sweater can keep you warm during the colder months, while a cotton cardigan can be worn during the warmer months. A neutral-colored sweater or cardigan can complement any shirt color, while a bold-colored sweater or cardigan can add some personality to your outfit.

• Layer a crewneck sweater over a button-up shirt and dress pants for a sophisticated look.
• Wear a cardigan over a striped button-up shirt and jeans for a preppy look.
• Pair a turtleneck sweater with a button-up shirt and slacks for a modern, stylish look.

Vests

Vests are a great layering option for a more formal look. They can add some depth and texture to your outfit while also keeping you warm. When choosing a vest, consider the material and color. A wool vest can keep you warm during the colder months, while a cotton vest can be worn during the warmer months. A neutral-colored vest can complement any shirt color, while a patterned vest can add some personality to your outfit.

• Pair a tweed vest with a white button-up shirt and dress pants for a classic, sophisticated look.
• Wear a puffer vest over a chambray button-up shirt and jeans for a casual, outdoorsy look.
• Layer a quilted vest over a plaid button-up shirt and chinos for a cozy, laid-back look.

Accessories

Accessories can add a lot of personality to your outfit. Here are some accessories that can complement your button-up shirt:

Ties and Bowties

Ties and bowties can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. If you want to keep things classic, go for a solid-colored tie or bowtie. If you want to add some personality, try a patterned tie or bowtie. Just make sure that the pattern complements the color of your shirt. For example, if you’re wearing a blue shirt, try a tie or bowtie with a complementary color like yellow or red.

Pocket Squares

A pocket square is a small piece of fabric that you can fold and place in the breast pocket of your jacket. It can add a pop of color or pattern to your outfit. If you’re wearing a patterned shirt, try a solid-colored pocket square. If you’re wearing a solid-colored shirt, try a patterned pocket square. Just make sure that the colors and patterns complement each other.

Belts

A belt can add some definition to your waist and pull your outfit together. If you’re wearing a casual outfit, try a leather belt with a simple buckle. If you’re wearing a more formal outfit, try a dress belt with a more ornate buckle. Just make sure that the color of your belt matches the color of your shoes.

Watches

A watch can be both functional and stylish. If you’re wearing a casual outfit, try a leather strap watch with a simple face. If you’re wearing a more formal outfit, try a metal strap watch with a more ornate face. Just make sure that the style of your watch matches the style of your outfit.

Shoes

Your shoes can make or break your outfit. If you’re wearing a casual outfit, try a pair of sneakers or loafers. If you’re wearing a more formal outfit, try a pair of dress shoes like oxfords or derbies. Just make sure that the color of your shoes matches the color of your belt.