The Shirt Replacing Our White Button-Ups This Spring

A button-up shirt is one of those rare wardrobe staples that transcends personal style, age, and even season. It’s the kind of piece that quietly anchors an outfit. It’s elevated enough for the office, effortless enough for weekends, and endlessly versatile when it comes to styling. I personally own more than I can count and reach for them year-round. In fact, it’s often the very first item I pack for a trip.

For years, the crisp white button-up has been my default. It’s a classic I’ve been investing in since high school—timeless, reliable, and always in style. But recently, I’ve found myself gravitating toward iterations that feel a bit more expressive: deep-blue poplins, softly oversized striped versions, and even the occasional bold, color-saturated style.

After weeks of previewing new-season arrivals (an occupational hazard I happily accept), one thing has become clear. Designers and contemporary brands alike are reimagining the button-up in ways that feel fresh, playful, and decidedly less predictable. While the white shirt will never truly fall out of favor, the shift toward colorful and striped button-ups suggests it may be time to give our longtime standby a well-earned break—at least for now.

How to Style a Colorful Button-Up

With light wash jeans + a slouchy bag

Button-ups aren’t just meant for structured, office-ready outfits—they can (and should) feel relaxed. Instead of reaching for your usual tee or tank, try swapping in a softly oversized blue button-up. Styled with light-wash denim, flats, and a slouchy carryall, it creates an effortless off-duty look that still feels intentional.

With fun shoes

It’s natural to want to keep the rest of your outfit understated when wearing a colorful button-up, but leaning into the “wrong shoe theory” can make a look feel instantly more modern. Consider styling a pink version with an unexpected footwear choice—think slim sneakers, sculptural heels, or bold flats—to add personality and visual interest.

With a white tank and trousers

If styling a colorful button-up feels daunting, start by grounding it with familiar basics. Layer it over a simple white tank and pair it with tailored trousers, treating it the same way you would a lightweight jacket or elevated tee. The bold hue becomes a finishing touch rather than the focal point, making the overall outfit feel balanced and wearable.

With white jeans and flip-flops

Red can feel intimidating to style, but keeping the rest of your look simple makes it surprisingly approachable. While many fashion insiders gravitate toward bright, candy-apple shades, a deeper maroon or burgundy often proves more versatile for everyday wear. Paired with crisp white jeans and minimal accessories, the result feels polished, fresh, and quietly statement-making.

With opposite colors

Few shades capture the optimism of spring quite like yellow. Whether worn as a soft pastel or a saturated statement hue, it serves as an ideal foundation for playful color combinations. Try pairing it with unexpected contrasting tones for a fashion-forward look, or let it stand on its own against clean neutrals for maximum impact.

My Favorite Colorful Button-Ups to Shop Now

Sézane

Bilma Shirt

3 colors available

Shop now

Asos

Oversized Shirt

2 colors available
sizes 14 – 26

Shop now

Banana Republic

The Cotton Oversized Shirt

9 colors available

Shop now

Madewell

The Easy Shirt

8 colors available

Shop now

Free People

Sabine Articulated Shirt

3 colors available

Shop now

Old Navy

Oversized Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt

10+ colors available
sizes XS – 4X

Shop now

J.Crew

Étienne Oversized Shirt

sizes XXS – 3X

Shop now

Reformation

Eli Oversized Shirt

10 colors available

Shop now

Gap Factory

Oversized Poplin Shirt

7 colors available

Shop now

Boden

Sadie Relaxed Cotton Shirt

8 colors available
sizes 0 – 20/22

Shop now

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer

Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.

READ TINSLEY’S FULL BIO

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