The timeless classic button-up top is an incredibly versatile piece of clothing that can adapt to different occasions. By making just a few adjustments to your overall look—such as pairing it with tailored trousers for a polished, professional appearance or wearing it with your favorite jeans for a relaxed, casual outing—you can transform your style in little time. Its adaptability makes the button-up shirt a wardrobe staple! Here are four ways to style your thrifted button-up shirt. 

For a professional look: Start by buttoning the shirt 4-5 buttons down to just above the waistband of your dress pants. Next, gather the back of the shirt to create the fit you desire. Use a rubber band or hair tie to secure the gathered part on the inside of the top. Once finished, step back to admire your look. 

For a chic look: Start by buttoning the shirt all the way down, leaving the bottom two or three buttons undone. Take both ends of the shirt and tie them together to form a neat knot. For extra stability, tie a double knot. Pair the knotted shirt with your favorite denim jeans or a skirt to complete the look!

For a casual look: Begin with a fitted shirt (for underneath) and a pair of blue denim jeans as your base outfit. Next, take your button-up shirt and button it up in the middle, leaving the top and bottom buttons unbuttoned. Tuck one side of the shirt into your jeans while leaving the other side out. Complete the look by pairing it with sunglasses and sneakers for a fun outing! 

For a modern look: In this outfit, the button-up shirt serves as an accessory rather than the focal point. Start by buttoning up your shirt completely, leaving the last one or two buttons undone. Next, choose your favorite oversized sweater or sweater vest and layer it on top of the shirt, allowing the collar to rest on top of the sweater while the shirt’s hem hangs outside. Pair this look with any shoes from your closet!

All items shown were purchased at a Salvation Army thrift store.