I recently pulled my warm weather clothes off the really-high-up, top shelf in my closet and was happily reunited with a simple summer workhorse: my short sleeve button ups. I had two beloved ones from storage, and now a new one c/o Tradlands, laid out on my bed (along with my other summer clothes) looking up at me, begging to by styled into some spring and summer outfits. I accepted the challenge.
I don’t tend to wear a lot of button up tops in the cooler months, because I’m usually too busy wearing sweaters, ha. But I really like wearing them in the spring and summer.
Why?
–> Spring and summer styles tend to be minimal, because it’s hot. Short-sleeve button ups are perfect to wear because they add visual interest to an outfit with details like buttons and collars.
–> Warm weather items can feel really casual (I’m looking at you shorts). Adding a button up top can keep an item like cut-off shorts from feeling too casual. In other words, business on top, party on the bottom. Kind of perfect for Zoom calls, right? Pairing a smart button up with casual bottoms, shorts, elastic waist, or almost anything can easily conjure up a top-notch, weather appropriate outfit.
Alright, let’s get to the fun stuff!
OUTFIT 1: Distressed Jeans
I’m always a fan of a good Canadian tuxedo. And when I wear them, I like my blues to be similar rather than contrasting. Makes for a nice monochromatic look. I love the way this soft, voluminous shirt looks paired with relaxed-fit jeans, the volume on volume doesn’t feel like too much when there’s a gentle tuck of the top (half a French tuck?).
These are decidedly warm-weather jeans because of the epic holes, and the epic holes make them decidedly casual. The button up top makes me feel less teenager-y and more me.
Box Top in Vintage Denim (M), c/o Tradlands, 100% cotton
90’s Jeans (27) AGOLDE
Cow Pony Clogs (41), No.6 (more sizes here)
OUTFIT 2: Cutoffs (or shorts of any kind!)
I love me some cutoff shorts! In fact, the pair I usually wear is a few inches shorter and even more casual/distressed. (See them here, in a repeat of this outfit.) I love cutoffs so much because they are the summer version of jeans, and jeans are my very favorite clothing item to wear. Something about denim is casual, cool and a little bit nostalgic. Cutoffs are no exception. I’ve learned over time that pairing my shorts with a nicer top helps me feel exactly how I want to in the summer: pulled together, but still casual and weather-ready.
Hat, Brookes Boswell
The Friend (S), c/o Power of My People
Everlane Cut Off Short (c/o) sold out (similar)
Huaraches (9.5), Nisolo
OUTFIT 3: Stretchy Pants
These aren’t stretchy pants per-se, but rather pants with a stretchy waistband. However this simple formula would be really effective with most stretchy pants. The tied shirt tails create a waist, and that means basically anything goes on the bottom, and sometimes, the looser the better! You could go with trousers (like above), wide leg pants, wide leg sweatpants (yassss), regular sweatpants, the list goes on. As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, it’s a business on top, party on the bottom situation. And a pretty darn good one!
The Philosopher, c/o Power of My People
Keaton Pleated Pants in Oatmeal (8), c/o Only Child
Woven Clogs, 11, c/o Everlane
BONUS: Tied over a dress
And in case you weren’t convinced that short sleeve button ups are a workhorse for warmer months, here is another great example! This video is from a few years ago, but I definitely want to wear this combo again soon!
Before You Shop…
If you’re in the market for a short sleeve button up top, here are a few more options for you. When you’re shopping, pay close attention to the fit and fabric. Those two things can make or break an item. Be sure the fit lines up with what you’re looking for (oversized or slim) and that the fabric serves your lifestyle, ie: washable, breathable, long lasting, which usually comes in the form of natural fibers.
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I absolutely adore all of these looks Andrea! You have struck the perfect balance between casual and chic Spring/Summer style which is something I am constantly trying to do. Definitely adding a short sleeve button up to my wish list so I can try and recreate these gorgeous outfits!
Thank you so much for compliment Emma! I feel like I am forever a student of style, it’s so fun to learn. Happy spring styling!
I LOVE outfit #1! I’m a big fan of double denim already but mega distressing and cow mules(!) really give it some oomph. I can’t wait to try something similar with my own pieces, so thanks for the inspo!
Thanks Allison! It’s definitely a bold choice. I’m so happy to have inspired you, happy styling! xx
It’s getting warmer here and your post is a good reminder to not just throw on a tee! I do feel like I need a waist-tying tutorial though. My attempts never look as polished as yours do! Any tips?
Hi Zoey, oh, that’s such a great idea, I might try and share something on IG. I would say. the longer the shirt tails the better. And if they’re too short, cheat and use a clear rubber band!