Button downs are a must for men’s wardrobe and are perfect for several occasions. Whether you are interviewing for that new job, attending a wedding, or want to impress your partner on a night out, dress shirts are always the safest bet for dress code attire.

Though there are many minuscule details that go into finding the “perfect tailored fit,” there are a number of shirts online that still do the trick. Before we give you a rundown on some of our favorites, we recommend that you know your upper body measurements so you can find a buttoned shirt that fits you appropriately.

1. White Patterned Button Down Dress Shirt | The Melati [Overall Favorite]

Our Favorite Twist on the Classic White Button Down

Having a white button down shirt is great, but this white shirt is for those looking for some extra style points to wear something with a little more character than your classic plain white button down shirt.

If you are a slimmer-built guy who is in search of their white button down, then we highly recommend wearing ours at Nimble Made called “The Melati.”

It is silky smooth, and its sheen will surely stand out. White button downs are difficult because they can look tacky if not done right, but the patterns of the Melati make it a little easier to wear with more outfits. A common complaint of other dress shirts is that the material is too see-through or that it’s just not comfortable.

We pride ourselves on quality and excellence and this lightweight, 100 percent cotton dress shirt will hug your body like a cloud. Fitting with our theme of shirts, this white button down dress shirt is also a slim-fit dress shirt made with 100% cotton.

Pros:

• Hassle-free exchanges & returns
• 100% cotton
• Machine washable
• Unique slim fit sizes

2. Nimble Made's Navy & Red Flannel | The Showa

The Best Button Down Flannel Shirt

Since the last shirt we mentioned was for fancy occasions, we'll contrast it with something that's a little more casual - The Showa, our Navy & Red flannel that is as eye catching as it is bold. This is our favorite button down flannel shirt for slim guys.

It’s not a dress shirt, but it is still trendy and nice to wear on dates or casual events. Roll up the sleeves for extra style points. This shirt features a light cotton blend - 59% cotton, 29% bamboo, 12% acrylic with 2-button adjustable rounded cuffs.

 

3. Slim Fit - Black and White Flannel | The Script 

Our #1 Flannel Shirt for Slimmer Men

If you are looking for something a bit more casual and comfortable, we highly recommend you check out one of our newest items, the black and white button down flannel or what we like to call “the script.” This 100% medium weight cotton flannel looks great on skinnier men.

This black and white button down compliments your stature and is flexible to shape your movement. Though we believe all dress shirts need to be tucked in, flannels are just one exception. We like to specialize in dress shirts for slim men, but we also sell a variety of different style button downs.

Our website also has a feature where you can find your ideal size range just by inputting your height and weight. Not all button down dress shirts need to be for business occasions, and this black and white button down proves you can still be casual while looking sharp. Looking for black button ups instead? You'll want to add this black dress shirt to the collection.

4. Nimble Made Blue & White Flannel Button Down | The Indigo

Our Most Eye-Catching Flannel Shirt

Flannels play a multifaceted role in your wardrobe, serving as versatile pieces that can adapt to various occasions and settings. With their eye-catching patterns and textures, this blue and white button down adds a touch of fun and personality to your outfit, effortlessly transitioning from laid-back casual events to stylish nights out at the bar.

These blue and white button downs are a wardrobe staple, offering versatility as they complement almost any color palette. Crafted from high-quality cotton and featuring a 2-ply construction with a high thread count, our blue and white button downs ensure durability and comfort with every wear.

Whether you're dressing for a romantic date, a crucial business meeting, or a sophisticated luncheon, these blue and white button downs strike the perfect balance between fashion-forward style, playful charm, and professional refinement.

 5. Dark Blue and Red Flannel | The Betta

Our Coziest Maroon and Navy Button Down Shirt

Introducing our exquisite Dark Blue Red Flannel Button-Down Shirt, meticulously crafted to elevate the wardrobe of any discerning gentleman. Each detail of this shirt has been carefully attended to, ensuring precision tailoring and an unrivaled level of sophistication and comfort.

Fashioned from the finest quality flannel fabric, it delivers a sumptuous feel and cozy warmth, making it an ideal choice for cooler days or effortlessly layered looks. The deep, rich hue of dark blue, highlighted by subtle red accents, imparts an aura of refinement to both casual and semi-formal ensembles.

Designed in a slim fit silhouette, this shirt effortlessly molds to the body, creating a sleek and modern appearance. From the office to a night out or a leisurely weekend getaway, this versatile shirt effortlessly enhances your style, making a statement wherever you go.

6. Burgundy and White Flannel | The Azuki

A Refined and Stylish Button Down Flannel Shirt

Discover the allure of our Burgundy and White Button Downs, a harmonious blend of modern flair and timeless charm. Meticulously crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these burgundy and white button downs embody superior craftsmanship and impeccable design.

Enveloped in the richness of burgundy and the purity of white, its plush flannel fabric ensures both comfort and refinement, lending a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. These white button downs exude understated elegance, effortlessly adapting to any setting with effortless ease.

Whether paired with tailored trousers for a polished look or dressed down with denim for a casual vibe, this shirt promises versatility and style in equal measure. Elevate your wardrobe with this exquisite piece and experience the unmatched sophistication it brings to your everyday attire.

7. Tommy Hilfiger Long Sleeve Casual Button Down 

Regular Fit Button Down Shirt for Men

Introducing the epitome of timeless sophistication, the Tommy Hilfiger Men's Long Sleeve Button-Down Oxford Shirt in Regular Fit. Designed with the modern gentleman in mind, this shirt boasts a classic silhouette with a twist.

Cut with slightly more room for greater waist and chest size than our Slim Fit, it offers unparalleled comfort without compromising on style. Crafted from 98% organic cotton and 2% elastane, it provides a luxurious feel with just the right amount of stretch for ease of movement to avoid an ill fitting outline.

Whether you're heading to the office or a weekend brunch, this Oxford shirt is a versatile wardrobe staple that effortlessly transitions from day to night. Easy to machine wash with cold water for convenience and imported with impeccable craftsmanship, elevate your ensemble with the understated elegance of Tommy Hilfiger.

8. Non-Iron Long Sleeve Button Down Stretch Oxford Shirt 

Stretchy Oxford Sport Shirt

Elevate your wardrobe with the timeless sophistication of the Brooks Brothers Men's Non-Iron Long Sleeve Button-Down Stretch Oxford Shirt. Renowned as one of the most imitated pieces in fashion history, this iconic shirt now features our innovative non-iron fabric, ensuring your shirt stays virtually wrinkle-free from morning to night, effortlessly keeping you sharp and polished.

Crafted with a new stretch finish for easy movement and wrinkle-proof machine wash wear, it boasts a classic look with modern functionality. Embrace the distinctive collar roll, relaxed fit, and signature 6-Pleat Shirring on the buttoned barrel cuff for a touch of refined elegance.

Explore our wide range of short and long sleeve dress shirts, sport shirts, the best Oxford shirt, golf shirts, and more, available in an array of styles and fabrics including stretch and wrinkle-free options. From suits to casual attire, Brooks Brothers offers an entire range of men's clothing, shoes, and accessories, catering to every style and occasion, including slim fit, regular fit, and big and tall sizes.

Experience the original authority on American style with Brooks Brothers, where stylish modern clothing meets fresh takes on heritage designs for men, women, and kids alike.

9. ARIAT Men's Twill Classic Fit Shirt 

Long Sleeve Western Style Button Down

Discover the essence of western sophistication with the ARIAT Men's Team Logo Twill Classic Fit Shirt, tailored for the discerning cowboy. Crafted from robust twill cotton fabric and reinforced with double-needle topstitching, this long-sleeve shirt promises durability without sacrificing style.

While not a tailored fit, this generous classic fit and extended body length, it ensures a polished appearance with the assurance of a neatly tucked shirttail. Engineered with Greater Arm Mobility technology, this shirt offers unparalleled freedom of movement, ideal for those with an active lifestyle.

Complete with a button-down collar, front button placket, adjustable cuffs with two-button holes, and a single patch pocket on the left chest adorned with Ariat logo embroidery, every detail speaks of quality and craftsmanship that's durable for machine wash.

Embrace both tradition and innovation as Ariat pioneers advanced technologies to deliver superior performance, comfort, and durability, setting the standard for western wear excellence.

10. Nautica Men's Classic Fit Stretch Solid Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt 

Comfortable Stretchy Long Sleeve Button Down

Indulge in timeless elegance and unmatched comfort with the Nautica Men's Classic Fit Stretch Solid Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt. Meticulously crafted with the modern gentleman in mind, this shirt seamlessly blends classic design with innovative stretch fabric, creating a wardrobe essential for versatility and style.

The classic fit silhouette offers a tailored yet relaxed appearance, while the stretch fabric ensures effortless movement and enduring comfort throughout the day and is tough enough to withstand a machine wash. Whether for casual outings or formal occasions, this shirt is the go-to, boasting a traditional button-down collar and solid construction for a refined finish.

Elevate your attire with the understated sophistication of Nautica, where the fusion of timeless elegance and contemporary flair awaits.

11. Prana Men's Short Sleeve Button Down Shirt 

Best Casual Short Sleeve Button Down

Introducing the prAna Men's Zuckerfield Shirt-Slim, a must-have short sleeves addition to your spring-to-summer wardrobe. Crafted from a breathable and lightweight blend of moisture wicking organic cotton and recycled poly, this shirt ensures comfort without compromising on style.

Inspired by our trip to Portugal, the cheeky prints, including playful sardines, add a touch of conversation-starter to any occasion, whether it's a backyard BBQ or a casual outing with friends. Plus, with the assurance of being made in a Fair Trade Certified Factory, this shirt not only looks good but also does good, ensuring that the people who made it received a fair premium for their hard work.

With its slim fit silhouette and organic cotton/recycled polyester blend printed poplin fabric, the prAna Zuckerfield Shirt-Slim combines sustainability, style, and ethical production for a go-to shirt that's as conscientious as it is fashionable.

12. Bowery Premium Fine Cotton Dress Shirt 

Best Brand Name Dress Shirt

This slim fit dress shirt from J Crew is highly rated for its quality and comfortable fit. Made from 100 percent cotton and 2 ply, 100s yarn, you can expect a silky smooth feel that snugs your body and shapes to your contour. J Crew’s website also allows you to find your perfect fit under the “Find your True FIt” section.

You just input your weight and height information, information regarding where you bought your last dress shirt and what size that dress shirt was, and viola. It is like a reference guide so they can choose the best size for you in their store. You can choose between their fairweather blue or light pink end-on-end colors.

These are highly recommended for business casual or business professional purposes. If you are someone who is cautious about finding quality dress shirts, this particular one from J.Crew is a great example of quality shirts to look into.

13. Slim Fit Easy Iron Shirt

 Most Accessible Dress Shirts

You can find H&M stores basically at any mall or shopping center and they do sell stylish clothing. Though the quality may not be the best in terms of their formal wear, it is still a great place to do some last-minute shopping.

If you have an unexpected interview coming up and need a dress shirt, our pick from H&M should do the trick. This slim fit style dress shirt comes in 7 different colors and in 7 different designs, totaling to 14 different types to choose from. The light blue is a very safe option since they are easier to pair other articles of clothing with.

They are mostly made of polyester with a cotton blend. Other style attributes include a turn-down collar, visible yoke at the back, narrow and adjustable button cuffs, and narrow shoulders, and tapered waist. Overall, it is an easy-to-find and decent dress shirt for the price you pay.

14. Classic Fit Denim Shirt 

Best Denim Button Down Shirt

This next shirt is for our denim lovers. The classic fit denim shirt from Ralph Lauren is the type of denim shirt where casual and formal styles mix. This is by no means a business formal shirt, but it is quite versatile. It can be worn alone with some nice khaki pants or used as an outer layer button down with a t-shirt underneath. Here's our guide to the best t-shirts for skinny men.

For not being a business shirt, you may be impressed to hear that it is a split back yoke with a box pleat in the back for added comfort, range of motion, and pizzazz. These features make sense when you think of the fact that it comes from Ralph Lauren. Though on the pricier side, it is a high-quality button down that can be worn on a number of occasions.

15. Stretch Big & Tall Dress Shirt, Non-Iron Pinpoint Ainsley Collar 

Best Dress Shirts for Larger Men

While our focus tends to lean towards shirts tailored for slim men, we understand that individuals come in all shapes and sizes, including tall, short, slim, and big. For those on the larger side, the struggle of finding the perfect-fitting shirt is all too real.

That's where Brooks Brothers steps in, renowned for their commitment to crafting high-quality dress shirts with consideration for larger gentlemen. While their shirts may come with a higher price tag, the investment is well worth it, as Brooks Brothers prioritizes both quality and fit.

Available in classic hues like blue, lavender, and pink, there's a color option to suit every preference. However, it's important to note that these shirts are produced in limited quantities. So, if you find one that you love and that fits just right, don't hesitate to make it yours before it's gone.

Button Up Vs Button Down: Key Differences

Button-up and button-down shirts are both staple pieces in men's fashion, distinguished primarily by the presence or absence of buttons on the collar. The terms are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different styles of shirts.

A button-up shirt is a broad term that encompasses any shirt that features a row of buttons running vertically down the front, typically from the collar to the hem. This style of shirt can come in various collar styles, such as spread collar, point collar, or club collar, and may or may not have buttons at the collar points.

Button-up shirts are versatile and can be worn in both formal and casual settings, depending on the fabric, pattern, and styling details.

On the other hand, a button-down shirt specifically refers to a shirt with buttons at the collar points, which are used to fasten the collar to the shirt front. This design detail originated in early 20th-century American fashion, popularized by Brooks Brothers.

The purpose of the button-down collar was originally practical, intended to keep the collar points in place during sports activities like polo or tennis. Today, button-down shirts are a classic menswear staple known for their casual yet polished appearance.

The presence of buttons at the collar points is the key distinguishing feature between button-up and button-down shirts. While all button-down shirts are technically button-up shirts, not all button-up shirts are button-down. Button-down shirts have a more relaxed, laid-back vibe compared to other dress shirts, making them a popular choice for business casual attire, smart casual occasions, or everyday wear.

In summary, button-up shirts are a broad category of shirts that feature a row of buttons down the front, while button-down shirts specifically refer to shirts with buttons at the collar points. Both styles have their own place in men's fashion, offering versatility, functionality, and timeless appeal for a range of occasions and personal styles.

Occasions for Wearing Button Ups vs Button Downs

The choice between wearing a button-up or button-down long sleeve shirt often depends on the occasion, personal style preferences, and the desired level of formality. Both types of shirts have their own unique characteristics and are suitable for various situations.

Button-up shirts, also known as dress shirts, are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the styling and accessories. These shirts typically feature a row of buttons running vertically down the front, from the collar to the hem, and may come in a variety of collar styles, such as spread collar, point collar, or button-down collar.

Button-up shirts are a staple in professional settings, commonly worn with suits or tailored trousers for business meetings, interviews, or formal events. However, they can also be worn in more casual settings when paired with jeans or chinos for a smart-casual look. The key to wearing a button-up shirt is to ensure proper fit and styling to maintain a polished and put-together appearance. 

On the other hand, button-down shirts specifically refer to shirts with buttons at the collar points, which are used to fasten the collar to the shirt front. This design detail originated in early 20th-century American fashion, popularized by Brooks Brothers.

Button-down shirts have a more casual and relaxed vibe compared to other dress shirts, making them a popular choice for smart-casual or business-casual attire. The button-down collar adds a touch of laid-back charm to the shirt, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from weekend outings to casual Fridays in the office.

Button-down shirts can be paired with chinos or khakis, and even shorts for a more casual look, and they can be accessorized with ties or worn open-collar for added versatility.

When deciding between wearing a button-up or button-down shirt, it's important to consider the dress code of the event or occasion. For formal events or professional settings, such as weddings, job interviews, or important meetings, a button-up shirt is usually the more appropriate choice.

Pair it with a well-fitted suit, tie, and dress shoes for a sharp and polished look. On the other hand, for casual outings, social gatherings, or everyday wear, a button-down shirt offers a more relaxed and laid-back aesthetic. Style it with jeans, sneakers, and a casual blazer for a smart-casual ensemble that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and style.

Ultimately, the decision to wear a button-up or button-down shirt comes down to personal style preferences, the dress code of the occasion, and the desired level of formality. Whether you opt for the tailored sophistication of a button-up shirt or the casual charm of a button-down shirt, both options offer versatility, comfort, and timeless appeal that can elevate any ensemble.

In Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality button-down Oxford shirt can significantly boost your confidence and help you tackle the challenges of your day with ease. The ideal shirt not only feels comfortable against your skin but also exudes a sense of style and sophistication while remaining affordable.

Fortunately, the market offers a plethora of options to suit every taste, preference, and budget. Whether you prefer classic designs, trendy patterns, or unique embellishments, there is undoubtedly a button-down shirt out there that perfectly aligns with your individual needs and preferences.

So take your time exploring the options available, and rest assured that you'll find the perfect shirt to accompany you on your daily adventures.