https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:49:29 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1868962 Sun, 17 Dec 2017 00:27:00 +0000 The Cat 1868962@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I will admit that classic button-front shirts can be difficult to wear. But on the other hand, they can look so crisp.</p> <p>In some periods of my life, I have had many button-front shirts, and in others, none. At present, I have a few and love the ones I have. Earlier this year, I donated a few others and took the time to analyze why some button-fronts work for me while others don't. Now I know that mine need to be in a soft fabric, have a generous fit (especially at the shoulders) and preferably pockets. I want the first buttons to be open, but as V-neck lines don't look great on me, I need to soften the neckline by wearing either a necklace or a scarf in the neck opening.</p> <p>In my present (winter) wardrobe, I have button-front shirts in solid pink, solid white, blue &amp; white stripes, and blue &amp; white checks.</p> <p>By the way, I just read an interesting article by Brenda Kinsel about white shirts: <a href="http://www.brendakinsel.com/singing-the-praises-of-white-shirts-even-rumpled-ones/" rel="nofollow">http://www.brendakinsel.com/si.....pled-ones/</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1868808 Sat, 16 Dec 2017 17:05:13 +0000 Janet 1868808@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>SF, I have a couple of great chambray shirts -- I also like and wear casual plaid or patterned button-front shirts, which seem to fit a little looser and don't need ironing. It's the crisp ones and the dressier silk ones that are going unworn.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1868804 Sat, 16 Dec 2017 16:59:26 +0000 Style Fan 1868804@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I find it interesting to read everyone`s reflections on button-ups and other tops.&nbsp; I have never worn button-ups because they are impossible to fit.&nbsp; I have a narrow torso and a larger bust.&nbsp; I also find the fabric too stiff on the shirts.&nbsp; I prefer softer fabric.<br />The exception is a chambray or denim shirt.&nbsp; For some reason, I can find lots of denim shirts that fit me.&nbsp; Lots. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1868716 Sat, 16 Dec 2017 10:00:40 +0000 Gigi 1868716@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am not feeling button-downs either, except for these two poly ones that I got from Express recently. They are sufficiently fluid, and the V neck is sufficiently deep, to fit with my boho glam style. But I can't imagine wearing any other button-downs. I have a button-down tunic in a lovely cobalt color that is feeling very ho-hum. But it is starting to develop holes around the waistline, so it is on its last legs anyway.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867493 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:49:31 +0000 cindysmith 1867493@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I gave up on button front shirts a very long time ago because they're just too hard to fit properly without more money spent on alterations than I spent on my most recent vehicle. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867486 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:35:17 +0000 tanstaafl 1867486@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It's so interesting to hear everyone's take on button front shirts.&nbsp; I don't like stiffer fabrics for button fronts, but softer a softer, silky, more feminine feel to the fabric.&nbsp; I prefer for them to have a pattern and tend towards a more masculine stripe.&nbsp; And I don't&nbsp;want boob pockets.&nbsp; What am I ever going to put in a pocket right on my chest?&nbsp; I don't need extra lumps and bumps there. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867459 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 12:30:15 +0000 Janet 1867459@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great observations, all! </p> <p>Funny enough, the shirts that stayed in my closet have a bit more masculine style — cotton plaid or stripe, even though I’m not wearing them a ton. Something about the not so feminine vibe works for my casual style. Examples below are my Burberry plaid shirt and the white-and-pinstripe Vince one. And I kept my white shirts because they are the most versatile and do get some wear. But I passed on my Brooks Brothers crisp white shirt, nice as it is, because it feels too classic or stiff for me now. But the black velvet stays — I enjoy it in the winter for a bit of casual glam! </p> <p>Also notable that I’m not buying expensive blouses these days — I’m indulging in a little trendiness from Zara, etc, knowing that I’ll probably move on from these styles after a couple of seasons. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867458 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 12:23:10 +0000 lyn67 1867458@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I never could fit so effortlessy in any stiff button downs-and do not have any. Tryed the softer flowy ones &amp; they fit better but&nbsp; still never felt fab enough in them. Now I only use them left unbuttoned to layer over camis or tops to add interest like a softer, more casual version of a jacket. OTOH I do still love wowen but flowy tops-blouses&nbsp; with some detail on the&nbsp; neckline (added shine/gems/rufle) or patterned ones but slightly transparent for an intentional grinning&nbsp; over a matching cami. And love knits everything, of course. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867455 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 12:09:39 +0000 Anonymous 1867455@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Krish - interesting observation about utility shirts vs regular shirts. I think the utility styling (with the front placket pockets) and softness of the fabric is why the chambray shirt feel more like “me”. It hadn’t occurred to me before, but I think this is why. Also, the detailing is more casual too, which is also more me.</p> <p>I think I’ll look for a few other military/utility style shirts this spring. Thanks for your comment! It really resonated! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867450 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 11:40:07 +0000 Anonymous 1867450@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>the ladies you are in my world. I am a fan of the classic buttoned shirt I wear them every day I like it a lot I take great care I have a hard time getting rid of them if I do not put them over for a while they are folded and tidy I really like the classic style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867433 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 10:24:16 +0000 approprio 1867433@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I completely get this. There's definitely a move towards more interesting blouses lately, which is nice, although I've only acquired one so far. On the other hand, I don't think the "collar and cuffs" thing ever really goes away. So I'm probably with Greyscale on Team Buttondown. I'm not wearing them as much as I have in the past, but a white shirt under a black sweater is still working for me this winter.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867422 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 08:43:13 +0000 bella 1867422@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Unlike you, I am a ruthless purger, and I have only one proper button-down in my closet at the moment. I love them, but I guess over the last few years, they did not see a lot wear, and I got rid of them, or did not replace them when got worn out.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />It is my staunch belief that even when things come back, they are slightly different, and look just old. (unless it is proper vintage, and you enjoy that style, which I know that you don't necessarily). So let go and enjoy the new stuff in the stores and in your closet that float your boat right now.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867420 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 07:11:56 +0000 Eliza 1867420@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm over most of my button downs, especially the classic ones. I have a casual lifestyle now; I want to have fun getting dressed in comfortable tops that are current and not fussy. I love that third piece and have grown weary of the demands stiff blouses with collars and button details put on my toppers. </p> <p>Right there with you; haven't passed them all on yet, but am trying to figure it out. Went through a phase of silk blouses for nights out a few years ago, too. Have held on to those high quality pieces, though need to take a second look there. I did get a longer soft, fluid blouse in a print that works with many of my pants this fall. </p> <p>Great topic. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses/page/2#post-1867410 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 06:00:47 +0000 Violettt 1867410@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It's so funny but I have never in my life worn classic button down "shirt" type blouses. &nbsp;I've always found them too stiff, and prefer a more flowey feminine sillouette, but lately since I'm older, and trying to dress more "classic", I have purchased a couple in basic white, and one blush colored. &nbsp;I have to put some fabric softener to soften them up a bit, but I think they may look good worn with more of a feminine bottom, don't know exactly what yet. &nbsp;I have worn one of the white "shirts" which is long, like a tunic, over some black leggings, and I liked that look. &nbsp;I also have a big bust, (D), so I like shirts where the buttons stop around the middle of the breasts. &nbsp;Then I don't have to worry about gaping open buttons. &nbsp;I think material and cut is key. &nbsp;Brooks Brothers have a lovely white button down "shirt", but it has nice tapered darts, and the material is lovely. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867387 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 03:54:05 +0000 columbine(erin) 1867387@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A button down that fits well is such a HEWI, and hard to fit, but I’m probably going to pass on mine. Softer blouses and interesting sleeves are just more interesting and comfortable to wear, at the moment. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867381 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 03:37:51 +0000 Janet 1867381@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for all your reflections and words of wisdom! I’ve edited my closet so many times over the years, but it’s amazing how some things just refuse to leave. </p> <p>Today I spent some time pre-packing/ planning for Europe, and took the opportunity to do a little editing — a few things went in the donation bag, but quite a few more went to the holding zone. More than I want to hold, really, but I put some things there that are currently too snug *sob* but I haven’t given up on them because I suspect I’m near my peak weight again and plan to do something about that after the holidays (I’m not torturing myself by dieting in Europe on vacation!). I may need to sign up for some 10k’s to get myself on a training schedule. </p> <p>I’m slowly coming to grips with having too many options in my closet that are going unworn. Despite the fact that I crave variety and like having a large-ish wardrobe. I *do* wear a lot of my stuff, and I don’t mind having some things that only get worn 2-3 times a year IF the joy-per-wear factor is high. If not, it needs to go. </p> <p>But at least a half dozen button-front tops departed from my closet today — along with a few clutches, three jackets, and two very old pairs of shoes that I’m finally giving up on. Now, maybe I will be ready to pack! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867336 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 01:46:15 +0000 Aida 1867336@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I still like my <i>soft</i> shirts that have interesting color/pattern to them but they definitely come out less than my blouses; for weekend wear, my flannels still get worn. I've mostly passed on my crisper shirts but have set aside a couple that still have color/pattern that I love as well as a couple with particularly good fit. If the time comes that I want to wear them again I'll reassess for current-ness and go from there. But I'm not sure that you would want to go back to those classic shirts, even if you do end up back in a studio Janet. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867330 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 01:35:47 +0000 krishnidoux 1867330@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Janet</b>, you are definitvely not alone! Although I have a different physique than you or <b>tanstaafl</b>&nbsp;- shorter, I think, and slimmish long-waist -&nbsp; I, just like you, never reach for my beautiful button-downs because they are too stiff. Not in texture, but in vibe. They are too preppy for me right now.&nbsp;<br />On the other hand, I find I have been using and using again my utility (or utility-inspired) button-down shirts, that I like to put on over tees or long sleeves undershirts (with often undershirts'sleeve peeping out of rolled cuff). I wear them open, or half buttoned and knotted at the bottom, or yet again buttoned up, untucked with a belt overtop. On a hanger, classic button-downs and utility shirts look like twins. On me, it's a totally different story! It's the fabric (softer, better for curves), the rolled-up sleeves (with tab) and the pockets (more casual) the collar (that I can turn up). I have one chambray, one denim, one olive green military inspired one that I love, a voluminous small flower print one in a soft rayonne and a couple of plaid ones too although I think the plaid ones are yet of another category.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867316 Tue, 12 Dec 2017 01:12:25 +0000 Anonymous 1867316@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have one button-down shirt and it’s oversized. In the summer, I can roll up the sleeves and undo the button low and then it looks good. In the winter, the shirttail peeks out under cropped sweaters.</p> <p>I don’t like wearing button downs any other way as it feels too masculine on me. </p> <p>You might try a mandarin collar instead.</p> <p>Oh wait! I also have a chambray button down tunic in a rayon blend (ie: good drape). For some reason, if it’s chambray, it’s ok! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867284 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 23:04:31 +0000 karen13 1867284@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Janet, I think you just diagnosed my button down problem. I want to wear them, but they gap in the front and have tons of excess at the back and waist and hips. I've tried getting darts, but even then they are too full at hips and waist. And I don't love tucking with my short waist, especially as pants are getting higher waisted.</p> <p>Maybe less crisp, more fluid fits in button downs, with princess seaming and back darts? Then we could take in the excess fabric at the back. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867275 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 22:38:07 +0000 Angie 1867275@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Pass them on to DFS! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867206 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 20:05:48 +0000 texstyle 1867206@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My button downs are all casual and many have a quite different boxy or a-line shape (Madewell courier style and such) so those never feel too classic to me - some of my older ones are plaid, a few flannel and some summer linen - those haven't been worn as much this year so maybe that is why. </p> <p>One button down I am enjoying is a newer solid soft grayish-white flannel A-line shape with side pockets - love it on colder days with skinny jeans. Another is an interesting pieced striped short sleeve lighter flannel (very roomy, flowy cut) and that one is a new favorite. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867204 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 19:48:14 +0000 Ginger 1867204@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>If you have the room, I would save them in the holding zone. I did!&nbsp; I have a similar shape to yours - short waist, small back, hourglass - and well-fitting button shirts are very rare. Blouses don't tend to take much room and can even be folded at the bottom of a box or bag without trauma. Some of my shirts I haven't worn in *mumblety* years, but the color/pattern and fit are still winning. I have the room to keep them, so I am. And I'm glad to know they're there. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867202 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 19:40:27 +0000 Sal 1867202@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have never worn them a lot- I like them on others- Skylurker comes to mind here and Carla- but I always struggle. I do have one popover shirt that I like, one sleeveless patterned blouse with buttons. And a large shirt to throw over denim shorts and a bikini. I have just seen some candid pics of myself in this shirt and am tempted to bin it!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867186 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 18:27:42 +0000 Greyscale 1867186@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm still wearing the heck out of them, but you're definitely right. The trend seems to be soft blouses with details like subtle poet sleeves or softer necklines. Those register as too feminine for my own look, so I'm sticking with buttoned shirts. Actually, my most recent buttoned shirts are all from the men's section, so that only emphasizes the point. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867175 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 18:08:11 +0000 deb 1867175@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are not alone. I started last year with the button down purge and I think this year I only have 3 or 4 left. I am back on tees of any neck style. I wish cowl necks would come around again. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867173 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 17:58:37 +0000 Barbara Diane 1867173@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I only have a few, and they are patterned. I started wearing them again when I started wearing a substantial shiny textured multi strand short necklace with the top button(s) open. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867168 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 17:52:00 +0000 Janet 1867168@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Good to see I’m clearly not alone!</p> <p>I agree that there is something about getting a bit older and trying to wear these classic styles makes me feel...older somehow. Whereas when I wore them 10 years ago I felt sophisticated. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867164 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 17:40:58 +0000 Anonymous 1867164@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm actually finding that anything too classic is too classic these days. My wardrobe was all classic tomboy but I think there's a freshness and sexiness to the contrast between a younger person and classic clothes that just isn't the same for me now that I'm older.</p> <p>I think they really need a little "wild" mixed in for me to feel attractive.</p> <p>I resist re-discovering iconic clothing items from previous decades for the same reason although I think that people with more creative styles than myself find new and interesting ways to wear them.&nbsp;</p> <p>Happily, I also think that that softer, more feminine styles feel much more natural now than they did, almost as though I have the authority now to wear them without feeling self conscious. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/reflection-on-shirts-and-blouses#post-1867161 Mon, 11 Dec 2017 17:37:29 +0000 Anonymous 1867161@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sara L took the words right out of my mouth. There are so many other options out there right now, why feel like you have to stick with the same silhouettes and cuts when you don't love them? &nbsp;Things change as we age too, and I mean in terms of what we find interesting and attractive, and that's not a bad thing. &nbsp;The older I get, the less classic I want to dress. &nbsp;Standard button -front blouses are a PITA , quite frankly &nbsp; </p>