How to Wear a Short Sleeve Button-Down Shirt
If there’s one summer-ready menswear piece that’s making a splash these days, it’s the short-sleeve button-down. Men’s short-sleeve button-down shirts are perfect for a hot, sunny day when you want to look put together but can’t tolerate the heat that comes with wearing long sleeves. Wondering how to wear a short-sleeve button-down? Here are four outfit ideas to get you started.
Grilling Out
For an effortlessly cool look for that backyard get-together, look no further than a patterned short-sleeve button-down with trim-fit shorts in a vibrant tone. Opt for prints or tones that can hide small spills without being noticed.
Wear your shirt untucked and top off the ensemble with a pair of slip-on sneakers. Bonus points if you bring along your famous potato salad and a pitcher of summer cocktails.
Casual Date Night
Want to look good without having to try too hard? Date night calls for a look that’s both polished and playful. Try a printed dock shirt with chinos or casual pants in a neutral tone like khaki, navy, or charcoal, and round out the look with a pair of classic boat shoes or canvas sneakers.
Tuck in your shirt and wear a leather belt for a more hip look, or leave it untucked for a carefree vibe.
Casual Friday at the Office
Short-sleeved button-down shirts belong at the office—at least on Casual Friday. If you work in a more corporate environment, a short-sleeved button-down with a classic pattern like stripes, plaid, or gingham is your best bet. If your workplace permits denim, go for dark jeans, or keep things professional-looking with gray, navy, or khaki chinos.
Tie your ensemble together with a matching belt and dress shoes. Remember: You can tuck your shirt in or wear a blazer to achieve a more upscale look.
Lounging Around the Resort
There’s no style rule that dictates you can only wear a T-shirt or tank to the beach. Pack a couple of short-sleeve button-down shirts for that tropical getaway you’ve been looking forward to for months.
Pair one with your swim trunks and a pair of canvas sneakers or leather sandals. You’ll still look put together with minimal effort, even if you’re just lounging by the pool or grabbing a cocktail at the tiki bar.
Style Tips for Short-Sleeve Button-Down Shirts
A short-sleeve button-down shirt is meant to be a bit more casual than its long-sleeve alternative, so skip the stuffy tie. Also, feel free to unbutton two of the top buttons (or three if you’re feeling adventurous)—just don’t be surprised when you turn a few heads.
Need more style tips? Find out how to style different types of short-sleeve button-down shirts, including the ideal length and fabric to choose from.
Colors and Patterns
Men’s short-sleeve button-down shirts come in a bevy of bright colors and playful patterns, and you shouldn’t shy away from those bolder options. However, if you want to create a balanced outfit, we recommend pairing a printed shirt with solid shorts or pants. If you wear patterned shorts or slacks, keep things simple with a solid short-sleeve button-down.
Fabric Choices
Short-sleeve button-downs come in a range of fabrics, too. You can never go wrong with cotton, which is among the most breathable materials. Linen is also a stellar choice on particularly hot and humid days. Its looser weave means you’re bound to feel cooler while wearing it. Opt for performance short-sleeve button-downs made with high-tech, quick-dry fabrics that can wick moisture away.
Focus on the Fit
Don’t forget that the most important factor to consider is the fit. A flattering shirt will fit close to the torso without being too tight, with the sleeves ending somewhere near the middle of the bicep. Choose a short-sleeve button-down with comfortable stretch material for an ideal fit.
The right length is also key. If it hits right at the waistband, it’s too short, and if it falls below the fly, it’s too long. The ideal length is a couple of inches below the top button of your shorts or pants. You want to have just enough fabric at the bottom so that you have the freedom to wear it tucked or untucked, depending on the occasion and desired look.
Make Your Men’s Short Sleeve Button Down an Outfit Staple
Whether you’re choosing an outfit for a cruise or picking out what to wear on a first date, men’s short-sleeve button-down shirts offer a helpful compromise between style and comfort. They look more polished than your average cotton t-shirt but are less formal than the traditional long-sleeve button-down shirt, making them highly versatile. Add some short-sleeve button-downs to your wardrobe if you’re ready to elevate your summer look.
