You Have, You Need: A Striped Button Up

As I try to buy less, wear more of what I have, and build a wardrobe where every piece is worn, I’m thinking about new ways to style pieces I already own. Recently, I purchased a black and white button up to replace one that had worn out, and while I love it, it took me a few tries to figure out how to style it. Here are some suggestions.

The Shirt // I bought this Relaxed Button Down shirt from Ann Taylor, and I adore it. The stripes are the perfect width — not too thin, not too thick. The color is a muted white, not a stark white. And the fit is relaxed and casual, but not oversized. The shirt is currently on discount, and it’s totally worth it.

A number of influencers are also wearing this Madewell shirt. The stripe is more of a brown-black, but it seems to be a favorite. It also comes in plus-size.

A Brown Cardigan and Flats // It’s easy to pair the striped button down with light colored jeans. It looks casual and chic. But this basic pairing benefits from a little something more.

This Ba&Sh Gaspard Cardigan is chef’s kiss. This cardi is more of a soft jacket, and it works beautifully in an office wardrobe or a WFH one. I also adore the buttons, which have a little bit of black enamel on them to smooth the black-brown pairing. Looking for a more affordable option? H&M has a close pairing, and you can swap out the buttons for these ones to make it look even better.

Finally, I chose a Mary Jane flat because the demure style pairs well with the jacket. This pair from Madewell are easy to wear and a good price. For a pair with more support and cushion, but the same sleek look, Vionic makes these fantastic Alameda flats.

A Ribbed Tank and a Cargo Pant // Maybe it’s because this was my go-to style in high school, but I often forget that a button up shirt can also be worn as a topper for a tank. But how chic does Amy look here? I mean, come on. In a world where I miss wearing blazers, maybe a buttoned shirt over a tank is my replacement?

This tank is the one I own. It came from Amazon, and it’s great. I love the thickness, the racerback style, the thin ribbing. I sized up for a not-so-skin-tight fit, and it’s perfect. I bought a second one in black because I liked it so much, and I’ve paid way more to get less.

Also, I think the racerback style is the best for layering under a shirt because you really see the tank. But if you want something that fits lower, try this one with the same wide stripe and a scoopneck. Plus-size? Old Navy has you covered.

I own two pairs of cargo joggers. They’re a great option for when you want a casual pant, but you don’t want to wear leggings. I own this pair from Athleta, but this pair from Old Navy are nice too. I also own and recommend this BR Factory pair that come in several colors.

Do you have an item in your closet that you don’t know how to style? Drop a comment, I’ll keep them in mind for future posts in this group, because we could all use a little styling help.

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