Men’s button-down shirts are universally loved in the fashion industry due to their versatile and flattering design. Whether you’re trying to make a good first impression at work or you’re headed to a bougie brunch, a button-down is the perfect item of clothing to accompany your attire.
This item of clothing dates all the way back to the 19th century when American John E Brooks saw a polo match while visiting England. Here, he noticed the athletes fashioning these point collared fastened down shirts – a simple design, helping to enhance polo player performance. Taking this inspiration to his grandfather’s company back home, in 1896, The Brooks Brothers introduced it into their menswear collection, with the very first ‘Polo’ shirt.
Button-Down Shirt FAQs
How do I casually wear a button-down?
A button-down is highly versatile. That's why this shirt is so beloved. If you're going for a more laidback, casual look, leave the shirt untucked with a pair of jeans and cool sneakers. However, if you want to be more formal, definitely pair the button-down with some chinos and a sleek blazer.
What's the difference between a button-down and a button-up?
Though these types are similar, a button-up shirt has buttons that can be fastened all the way down the body, whereas a button-down has this plus buttons on the point collar.
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If you’re looking to elevate your wardrobe and invest in quality shirts, we’ve uncovered which brands produce the best men’s button-down shirts. Whether you’re looking for a vintage vacation shirt or a more refined, classic button-down, we have a variety of different styles suited for every type of look.
1/23Hugo Boss
Hugo Boss is one of the most iconic menswear brands that has been serving the best luxury pieces since its launch in 1924. This German clothing label manufactures the finest men's button-down shirts, with many of its designs crafted from premium cotton. Hugo Boss have supreme men's shirts suitable for a formal, more put-together look.
2/23Everlane
Everlane is of the best sustainable clothing brands on the market, delivering apparel from the finest materials and fabrics. The company responsibly produces its products through partnering with solely ethical factories. But, beyond being eco-friendly, their menswear is highly stylish and functional as well. Make sure to check out their range, as these shirts are 100% linen, promising to feel super soft while carrying heat away from the skin - the perfect summer shirt.
3/23Outerknown
For the past six years, Surfing legend Kelly Slater and John Moore's lifestyle clothing brand has served quality apparel to outdoor enthusiasts while preserving the planet. If you're searching for a brand pioneering the sustainable clothing industry, look out for Outerknown as they're putting fast fashion to shame. Their collection of button-down shirts fuse fabric technology with recyclable materials. Their series of shirts are also exceptionally durable and rugged, ideal for cold weather.
4/23Rhone
Rhone's motto is “inspire one another in the pursuit of progress” and they do just that through their fashion-forward designs. Their shirts are all about providing ultimate comfort as they're made from lightweight stretch fabric geared to be super flattering. Through their collection, Rhone prioritises form and function.
5/23Bonobos
Bonobos started as an e-commerce apparel store in 2017 when the idea of online shopping seemed foreign. Bonobos quickly developed a large following, recognised for their super comfy and flattering apparel. Their shirts are extremely well-made as they feature super flexible and lightweight materials geared to move with you. Bonobos have an extensive range of men's shirts available in different colours, styles and sizes.
6/23Mango
Mango is a Spanish clothing brand founded in the mid-80s by the Andic brothers. With an entrepreneurial dream “to be present in every city in the world”, they have become a global empire with stores in over 100 countries. Mango supplies chic and effortlessly cool shirts for a great value. If you're looking for a button-down shirt impeccably tailored for a low price, make sure to check out their collection.
7/23Ministry of Supply
Ministry of Supply was born in Cambridge and is headquartered in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) labs, ensuring their clothing is well-constructed and of high quality. This brand is committed to tailoring the finest men’s shirts so you'll look and feel your absolute best.
Ministry of Supply offers some of the best casual designs for a more polished and sharper look. With button-downs that feature all the finer details, these designs come with moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable stretch fabrics, suitable for everyday wear.
Ministry of Supply offers some of the best casual designs for a more polished and sharper look. With button-downs that feature all the finer details, these designs come with moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable stretch fabrics, suitable for everyday wear.
8/23Reiss
David Reiss founded this eponymous label in 1971, setting out to create designs that would redefine how British men present themselves. Reiss has a massive range of men's shirts featuring classic designs to playful, bold shirts promising to elevate your personal style. From monochromatic coloured shirts to ones including busy patterns, you're sure to find something that suits.
9/23AllSaints
AllSaints is a British fashion label that was founded in 1994 by Stuart Trevor and Kait Bolongaro. This brand is responsible for producing some of the most stylish menswear the fashion industry has ever seen, designing everyday clothing geared to last. They create exceptional men's shirts available in slim and oversized fits. AllSaints' collection includes a vast range of simplistic button-downs and flamboyant vacations shirts.
10/23Boohoo Man
Boohoo Man has a huge collection of menswear, offering quality clothing for a great price. Check out their online store as Boohoo have button-down shirts available in various colours, styles and patterns. If you're looking for a shirt great for the warmer months, Boohoo Man has a series of short-sleeve playful, vacation dad shirts. However, if you're looking for something providing more coverage, definitely opt for their heavyweight twill button-downs.
11/23J. Crew
J. Crew is a staple lifestyle clothing brand creating modern designs that feature advanced technology. They have set a global benchmark for their accessible, high-quality products that feature premium materials. J.Crew features clothing that’s “classic with a twist”. Make sure you check out their latest collection as they feature stylish casual men's shirts featuring all kinds of fabrics, no matter if you're looking for a broken-in oxford shirt, one with brushed twill or a flannel shirt; they have it all.
12/23Todd Snyder
Todd Snyder launched his label in 2011, with the dream to infuse his love of New York in his collection. This brand offers the finest men's shirts made from premium fabrics, guaranteed to last a lifetime. These shirts come in a whole range of different playful prints and colours, offering a more decadent, elegant style than your classic casual button-down shirt.
13/23Taylor Stitch
Taylor Stitch is all about creating better products that will last a lifetime. Taylor Stitch's clothing combines excellent style and functionality while being influenced by the Californian lifestyle. Their collection of men's button-downs is high performing and suitable for carrying out all your daily tasks -whether you're chopping wood or simply heading into the office. These shirts are also exceptionally rugged and durable, built to last.
14/23ASOS
ASOS is everyone's favourite online store as their offer a various styles, prints, size and colours. Starting in 2000, the company sell over 850 brands as well as its own range of clothing and accessories. Make sure you check out their collection, as they feature every type of men's shirt imaginable. They even feature iconic brands, including Ralph Lauren and Pull & Bear.
15/23Club Monaco
Club Monaco, defined as "affordable luxury", is ideal for the modern man seeking out sportswear apparel without breaking the bank. Club Monaco launched in 1985 and was founded on the dream to create "better basics" through their classic, chic, and effortless pieces. If you're looking for a laidback button-down shirt, great for building the basics of your wardrobe, Club Monaco have you covered. These designs are super minimalistic, suitable for all different occasions.
16/23Banana Repbulic
Banana Republic was founded in the late seventies by two Californian creatives passionate about the outdoors. Banana Republic captures a youthful and fun essence into their brand while inspiring people to get moving. They have created a bunch of excellent men's button-downs as they feature superior materials made to feel super comfortable and soft on the skin.
17/23Uniqlo
Uniqlo is one of the most reliable clothing brands around. The company began as a textiles manufacturer in Yamaguchi, Japan, in 1949, but now has over 1000 stores globally. Known for combining extraordinary style with advanced technology, you're sure to find some great shirts money can buy. Uniqlo has an extensive range of flannel shirts that feature excellent heat retention. If you're looking for a shirt that will have you properly equipped for the winter season, make sure you check out their store.
18/23American Eagle
American Eagle is the pinnacle of casual, high-quality clothing. Available for affordable prices, American Eagle is accessible without compromising its designs. This company manufactures the best button-down, printed and flannel shirts, perfect for casual wear. They have an endless range featuring stretchy short-sleeve button-ups to soft cotton long sleeve shirts, providing extra coverage.
19/23Paul Smith
Paul Smith is Britain’s foremost designer brand known for its creative aesthetic that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Launching in 1970, this brand creates pieces that are ‘classic with a twist ’. Paul Smith has a collection of casual button-down styles to formal shirts. These shirts come in an array of colours and prints, with the designs showcasing Paul Smith's signature floral pattern.
20/23Buck Mason
Neighbours Sasha Koehn and Erik Allen launched their highly successful clothing brand, Buck Mason, in 2013. Initially, their shop was a 50 square foot garage selling basic jeans and tees. However, since then, the brand has cultivated a loyal following thanks to its laidback, fresh style. Buck Mason is primarily known for creating the finest men's shirts in superior cotton blends. These shirts are highly functional as many of the designs come with a chest pocket and are a relaxed fit.
21/23Lands' End
Lands' End is all about providing "Sunday comfort" for your everyday wardrobe. Providing super soft clothing, Lands' End makes comfort a priority in everything they design. This is even reflected in their cosy button-downs, as they are crafted from exceptionally soft fabrics. Lands’ End has a range of traditional shirts available in different colours and patterns.
22/23Tommy Hilfiger
Tommy Hilfiger has been the purveyors of classic, American relaxed style since the mid-80s. Make sure you check out their collection as they’re offering the most fashionable formal men’s button-downs, perfect for the office or even work drinks. If you’re looking for a sharp camp collar shirt, Tommy Hilfiger has you covered, supplying classic styles that will never go out of fashion.
23/23River Island
River Island has created innovative menswear for over 60 years. This brand has a diverse collection of shirts available in different colours, patterns and fits, no matter if you’re looking for a shirt suitable for your off-duty aesthetic or a button-down perfect for formal wear. These items are also available for affordable prices, as River Island believes excellent style should be accessible to everyone.
