Trend Watch: Button Downs

OK, so this may seem arrogant, but I know that I am the one that has inspired one of spring’s hottest looks: the classic button down. I have been pairing button down blouses with anything and everything for years and this spring, I will totally own this look. Designers across the board have reincarnated the traditional shirt and has made it a spring staple.

When you think of button-up, your father’s work shirts may come to mind. Push those thoughts aside. This year’s button-ups are getting a fabric face-lift.

Low Key – If you are going for a casual look, a cotton button-down is key. I love to wear my cotton shirts with straight or skinny dark-washed jeans and flats. If you are looking for low-key, pair your shirt with shorts and converse.

Work Appropriate – Button-ups are a work staple for men or women. I personally love pairing a bright blouse with subtle pin-striped dress pants and heels for an easy, but fabulous look.

Night Out – Ooooh, yeah. Work is over. Slip on a pair of fabulous heels, accessorize with a chunky beaded necklace, do the smoky eye and you are ready girl!

If you are looking for a designer button down for spring, however, expect to pay designer prices. As I am not a fan of paying for a label, I have a few suggestions to help you find these buttoned beauties.

1) Second-Hand – Thrift store, thrift store, thrift store. Yes, I just sounded like broken record, but you would be surprised at the quality of button downs you can find. If you are not finding a blouse you love in the women’s section, skip down to the men’s. You will find an plethora of fabulous dress shirts beckoning for your woman touch.

Three of my favorite button-up shirts hanging in my closet right now came from a second-hand store. The first came from Salvation Army for $.50. The second, Goodwill for $2.00 and the third, Savers $.99. I know, right? These are the kinds of prices I am talking about! You could buy 30 of these shirts and not feel guilty! Plus, if you buy this many, you can wear them all through spring and then pair them under a cardigan or sweater during winter and still look totally chic.

2) Go Western – One of the looks this spring is also Western. So, go to any local western shop. You will know a western shirt when you see it, but just in case: Look for a button-down with pearl buttons (love, love LOVE), angular front pockets and a seam below the shoulder.

3) Retail – As the snow melts, J. Crew, Anthropologie and others, are throwing out the sweaters and stocking up for spring. You can find dressy, flirty and casual button-ups almost in any department store. Just keep your eyes open.

Button downs have been on the fashion radar since Fall 2010, but are just now spreading like wildfire. As many may not know about this reincarnated trend, be on the lookout NOW for button ups. You may get a better deal now than you will when they are the “it” item. Good luck!