Forget Basic Button-Downs: These Shirts Make a Statement and Still Go With Everything

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Photographed by Phil Oh

It doesn’t matter if you work in a corporate office or if you’re your own boss, a crisp white shirt is an essential piece in every woman’s closet. Though you probably have your go-to classic button-down by now, blur the lines of the office and the everyday wardrobe by adding a new staple into the mix—the white statement shirt. Even with eye-catching details like pouf sleeves and ruching, many of the great styling qualities of a simple button-up shirt remain, making these ruffled, belted, and wrapped-up tops more versatile than they look.

Although BA&SH’s Nova shirt swaps hidden closures for contrast buttons and a pointed collar for a banded one, this top doesn’t miss the mark on looking professional when tucked into a midi skirt or a pair of dress pants. Rejina Pyo’s ruffled blouse was practically made for the straight-leg denim and kitten-heel slingback combination, the perfect outfit for casual Fridays or even date night. Let’s not forget about what layering can do; pare back Paris Georgia’s sculptural off-the-shoulder top by working a black turtleneck underneath for an office-appropriate look that is sure to impress, or wear it on its own for a day at the museum. Whether you’re dressing for your nine to five or just looking to add another stylish piece into your repertoire, these impressive shirts are sure to make getting dressed a whole lot easier and way more fun.

It’s time to take a break from clean lines and starchy collars, and opt for a blouse with a big personality and a lot more to offer. Shop 15 alternatives to the white button-up below.

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Paris Georgia white jack shirt, $660, thedreslyn.comPhoto: Courtesy of thedreslyn.com
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Lorod asymmetrical placket shirt, $220, needsupply.comPhoto: Courtesy of needsupply.com
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Calvin Klein Jeans utility white denim shirt, $90, intermixonline.comPhoto: Courtesy of intermixonline.com
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Veronica Beard Clarke top, $295, shopbop.comPhoto: Courtesy of shopbop.com
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Sandro broderie anglaise collar shirt, $140, sandro-paris.comPhoto: Courtesy of sandro-paris.com
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Rejina Pyo Isla ruffled blouse, $395, farfetch.comPhoto: Courtesy of farfetch.com
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BA&SH nova crepe shirt, $210, selfridges.comPhoto: Courtesy of selfridges.com
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Pixie Market white bustier shirt, $99, pixiemarket.comPhoto: Courtesy of pixiemarket.com
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Loewe gathered cotton top, $655, selfridges.comPhoto: Courtesy of selfridges.com
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Proenza Schouler PSWL poplin tied shirt, $295, farfetch.comPhoto: Courtesy of farfetch.com
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White Story Victoria shirt, $353, farfetch.comPhoto: Courtesy of farfetch.com
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Ammara Maya shirt, $350, ammaranyc.comPhoto: Courtesy of ammaranyc.com
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Layeur belted high-neck tunic, $220, themodist.comPhoto: Courtesy of themodist.com
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Ellery Voltaire frill-sleeve shirt, $625, farfetch.comPhoto: Courtesy of farfetch.com
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Joie Bobette top, $228, shopbop.comPhoto: Courtesy of shopbop.com