There are many different types of button-down shirts, but they all are able to bring order to an outfit. Whether you’re wearing an impeccably tailored Brooks Brothers white shirt, a casual cotton twill work shirt, or a colorful stripe that wakes up blue jeans in a second, button-down shirts have an ability makes everything look better without much effort.
Because wearing a button-down shirt instantly sharpens an ensemble, it gives denim, in particular, a much clearer direction. The combination of a crisp business shirt with relaxed jeans doesn’t require any spectacular accessories or styling to work. Instead, they help a woman feel confident as soon as she looks into the mirror.
Fashion has understood this for decades. Katharine Hepburn found it as a way to dress with poise and freedom, while Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy wore her classic fit with an understated elegance that continues to fascinate.
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy
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Katharine Hepburn
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But, we’ve always known how well a crisp white button-down shirt works with all manner of garments. It’s the first thing we grab from our closet when we’re not sure what else to wear. For fall 2026, however, it’s time to expand into new territory. I’ll be trying several different types of button-down shirts that are just as effective at creating a smart look as a classic white one—yes, even with jeans.
Keep scrolling to see my favorite jeans and button-down shirt combos to wear this fall.
