Choosing a shirt to wear is not always a simple decision.

If this little tidbit of sartorial information has escaped you, youre not alone.

Instead, they discovered something like it during polo matches in England.

Button Down Shirt Collar

It was still being worn by the elite, but during play rather than while engaging in business.

You must learn when and how to make it work for you.

Heres the basic guide.

Origins of Button Down Shirts

Avoid loud or aggressive patterns because they break the professional look, even if your collar is buttoned down.

These have a fabric loop on the backside that holds the collar in place without the buttons sticking out.

Its the best of both worlds.

Modern Button Down Shirt Collar

Done badly, its gaudy.

Done right, its sartorial supremacy.

Going Tieless

Choosing to remove your tie when wearing a button-down collar is a dangerous proposition.

Basic Button Down Shirts

Forcasual drinks, its fine tolose the tie.

Otherwise, sticking to the rules of basicjacket-shirt-tie color-matchingwill keep you on track.

Make it clear that you did it intentionally by dressing up everything else.

Wearing a button down collar shirt with a tie

Button Up vs. Button Down Shirt: Whats the Difference?

Moreover, in modern parlance, people tend to use and understand the two terms interchangeably.

you could check out ourbuyers guide to OCBDs, or just cop one of these outstanding shirts below.

Button Down Collar Shirt and Jacket Combo

Weve included two button downs and two button upsjust in case you came for the latter!

What people do have time for is crease-resistant shirts that are silky smooth and itch-free.

LEstrange LondonsThe All-Day Shirtreally can be worn all day without looking like you wore it all day.

L’Estrange London | The All Day Shirt (Button Down)

A slightly more premium price tag, but a dress shirt that youll pick over all others.

Also available in a collarless variety, and a light blue variety.

Portuguese tailors used heavy organic cotton but somehow made it feel breathable and lightweight when worn.

ISTO | Oxford Shirt

A classic fit with a slimmer design, suitable for all occasions and all seasons.

Sizes up to 4XL.Luca Falonidesigned theirBrushed Cotton Shirtwith the finest Italian brushed cotton.

They created it to be a luxury addition to any wardrobe.

Luca Faloni Brushed Cotton Shirt (Button Up Shirt)

A classic year-round staple.

The material is soft, silky, but breathable.

It is a perfect dress shirt for the office or for weekends away.

4. Form & Thread | Grey Melange Essential Shirt (Button Up Shirt)

4.Form & Thread | Grey Melange Essential Shirt(Button Up Shirt)

Sustainable and stylish.

Organic cotton, recycled cotton, and PET bottles were woven together for a soft and versatile feel.

Minimal features, a large french-front pocket, and corozo nut buttons supply the shirt with a modern look.

Dress it up or down; the outfit possibilities are endless.

This requires keeping the fabric light and soft.

Unbutton Once:The only time those collar buttons should be undone is when youre putting on your tie.

During laundering, typical wear, or hanging in the closet, keep them snapped in and locked down.

Crisp but not starched is the key.

If one collar button begins to change color or needs to be replaced, get a new set.

Sleeve gauntlet buttons usually work for this purpose.

Were there any shirts on this list that you already own?

Maybe we convinced you enough to go out and add a few to your wardrobe?

Tell us, are you a fan of the button down collar?

Or are collared shirts a bit too formal for you?

What other style tips do you think we ought to include?

Leave us a comment below!