What makes a piece a classic: Utility?  Versatility?  Style?  Some combination of all three?

In my view, a classic piece is one that you can wear regardless of trend, season, or occasion.  This striped button-up shirt is such a piece.  You can wear it with business pieces or casual separates.  It would look just as good tied over a silky slip as it would used as a cover-up with a cute bikini.  If you own one, here are some pieces you might need to make it work.

The Shirt // This striped blouse from COS has a sleek hidden placket and a classic look.  This shirt has a more masculine, modern cut.  If you like a more fitted look, try this LOFT shirt.  Banana Republic also has a relaxed cut blouse in several blue and white combinations.

Petite? Check out this BR Factory shirt.  Plus?  Try this Madewell shirt.

Want something really relaxed, more of a swimsuit cover?  This Gap shirt is a nice option.  If a striped shirt is a staple piece for you, then this Reiss shirt is the one you want.  The color is a bit darker, bolder, and the style is perfect.

White Denim Shorts + Braided Sandals // This summer, white denim shorts are on my must-have list.  This pair from Nic + Zoe has a distressed edge and a 5-inch inseam.  It’s a cool look, but long enough for those of us who aren’t looking for something shorter.  If you prefer a shorter inseam, this Rag & Bone short is worth a look.

Not loving the distressed hem?  These Daily Ritual shorts have a rolled cuff.  I chose a denim short because you can wear white without it being showy.  If you would prefer twill, these Ted Baker shorts would qualify as “fancy.”

I bought a pair of braided sandals for this summer, and I love them.  They’re easy to dress up or down.  They’re great with shorts or a dress.  They’re nice enough to wear to dinner, but relaxed enough for the pool.  This pair from Amazon are very affordable.  If you like a thinner strap, this pair from Matches is phenomenal.

Navy Pencil Skirt + Red Flats // This is a simple, easy combination for work.  If you want to wear it on a Wednesday, you can add a navy blazer or a white one.  For a Friday in a professional office, just pop the collar and go about your life.

Pencil skirts are tougher to find in a post-COVID world, but J.Crew always has a classic pencil.  If you want more of an investment piece, this Hugo Boss skirt is a great option.

I chose these red Journee flats because I actually loved the little bow (it was a surprise to me too).  Want a stronger, more structural bow?  This pair is a chic option.  If you wear red flats frequently or you think they could be a staple for you, I would try this pair from M.Gemi or this pair from Tory Burch.

Prefer a round toe flat to a point toe?  Many women find it more comfortable.  Personally, I think it can look a little juvenile in an office setting (a controversial opinion, I know), so I prefer a square toe.  These Bells & Becks flats are phenomenal.  For something more affordable, you can try a pair of Rothy’s or these faux-leather Amazon flats.

So what would you wear with a striped button-up shirt?  Leave your thoughts in the comments.

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