Remember Sunday’s Wardrobe Reset? Today I’m highlighting two pieces that should be automatic “keeps” in your closet: a white button-up and a white tee. If you already have these (and most of us do), this post will show you how to style them in ways you might not have considered. And if you don’t? These are the two foundational pieces worth adding—they’ll work harder than almost anything else in your winter wardrobe. White shirts aren’t just basics. They’re the ultimate layering pieces, they create fresh contrast against winter’s darker palette, and they work for virtually every occasion. A crisp white button-up can go from casual with jeans to polished with trousers, while a well-fitted white tee layers seamlessly under blazers, cardigans, and sweaters. Today I’m sharing six ways to style these wardrobe workhorses all winter long—and why they absolutely deserve to stay in your January Wardrobe Reset.
White Tee Outfit 1: Casual Elegance with a Cardigan
A white tee doesn’t have to feel basic when you style it right. Here, a simple white tee is layered under a relaxed cream cardigan for an effortlessly polished look. Paired with cuffed chinos and pointed-toe loafers, this outfit is perfect for lunch dates, shopping, or coffee with friends. The key is keeping everything in a neutral palette—the all-white and cream combination feels fresh and intentional, while the gold jewelry adds just enough warmth. This is the kind of outfit that looks pulled together without trying too hard.
Table of contents
- White Tee Outfit 1: Casual Elegance with a Cardigan
- White Tee Outfit 2: Elevated with Texture
- White Tee Outfit 3: Under a Statement Jacket
- Why White Shirts Deserve to Stay in Your Wardrobe Reset
- White Button-Up Outfit 1: Layered Under a Sweater
- White Button-Up Outfit 2: Styled with a Statement Sweater
- White Button-Up Outfit 3: Preppy Casual Perfection
- White Button-Up Outfit 4: Polished for Cold Weather
- White Button-Up Outfit 5: Dressed Up and Elegant
- Styling Tips for White Shirts
- 5 Effortless Ways To Elegantly Style A White Shirt
- When to Invest in New White Shirts (And When to Shop Your Closet)
- Shop Beth’s White Top Picks at Every Price Point
White Tee Outfit 2: Elevated with Texture
This outfit proves that a white tee can absolutely be dressed up. Layering it under a textured metallic cardigan instantly elevates the look, while the corduroy pants add richness and depth. The tweed slingback heels tie everything together beautifully, making this a perfect outfit for lunch, casual work days, or dinner with friends. The mix of textures—smooth tee, metallic cardigan, soft corduroy—creates visual interest without feeling overdone. This is how you make a white tee work for more polished occasions.
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White Tee Outfit 3: Under a Statement Jacket
A white tee becomes the perfect foundation for a bold statement jacket. Here, it’s paired with a striped tweed jacket in shades of pink, orange, and cream for a look that’s colorful but still sophisticated. The white jeans keep the outfit feeling light and fresh, while the pink belt adds a fun pop of color that ties back to the jacket. This is ideal for women who want to embrace color and pattern without feeling overwhelmed—the white tee grounds everything and keeps the look balanced and wearable.
Why White Shirts Deserve to Stay in Your Wardrobe Reset
If you’re doing the January Wardrobe Reset, here’s why white button-ups and white tees should be automatic keepers:
They’re incredibly versatile. Both pieces work for casual, polished, and dressed-up occasions. You can style them dozens of different ways.
They create contrast in winter. White shirts brighten up darker winter colors like black, navy, gray, and brown, making your outfits feel more balanced and intentional.
They’re layering powerhouses. White shirts work under sweaters, blazers, cardigans, and coats—making them essential for winter dressing.
They always look fresh and clean. A crisp white shirt instantly elevates even the most basic outfit and makes you look more polished with minimal effort.
They never go out of style. White button-ups and white tees are timeless classics that transcend trends. You’ll wear them for years.
White Button-Up Outfit 1: Layered Under a Sweater
This is one of the most classic ways to style a white button-up, and it never fails. Layering it under a V-neck cashmere sweater lets the collar peek out at the neckline for that timeless preppy-chic look. Add a luxe faux fur vest over the top, and you have an outfit that’s cozy, polished, and perfect for winter. The coated jeans add a subtle edge, while the suede ankle boots and bucket bag complete the look. This outfit works for everything from casual weekends to lunch with friends, and it always looks intentional.
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White Button-Up Outfit 2: Styled with a Statement Sweater
A white button-up layered under a statement sweater is a styling trick that never goes out of style. Here, the crisp white collar peeking out from a cream bow-print sweater adds polish and structure to an otherwise cozy look. Paired with white velveteen pants and burgundy riding boots, this outfit strikes the perfect balance between comfortable and elegant. It’s ideal for winter weekends, or anytime you want to look put-together without feeling overdressed. The key is letting the sweater be the star while the white button-up adds that refined finishing touch.
White Button-Up Outfit 3: Preppy Casual Perfection
There’s something so chic about a white button-up layered under a fun graphic sweater. This red dog sweater adds personality and playfulness, while the white collar keeps the look grounded and polished. Paired with jeans and suede loafers, this outfit is quintessentially preppy-casual—comfortable, stylish, and effortlessly put-together. It’s perfect for running errands, casual Fridays, or weekend activities where you want to look intentional without trying too hard. The white button-up is doing all the heavy lifting here, adding structure and sophistication to an otherwise playful look.
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White Button-Up Outfit 4: Polished for Cold Weather
When temperatures drop, a white button-up layered under a sweater and topped with a bold coat is the ultimate winter formula. Here, the crisp white collar peeks out from a black cashmere sweater, creating that classic layered look. The red double-breasted coat adds a pop of color and sophistication, while the plaid pants keep things interesting and modern. This is the outfit for get-togethers, winter dinners, or anytime you want to look polished and pulled-together in the cold. The white button-up might be hidden, but it’s what makes the whole outfit feel refined.
White Button-Up Outfit 5: Dressed Up and Elegant
A white button-up can absolutely work for dressier occasions—you just need to style it right. Here, a tuxedo-style button-up is paired with a stunning fuchsia maxi skirt for a look that’s elegant, festive, and fashion-forward. The crisp white shirt balances the boldness of the bright pink skirt, while the velvet heels and crystal clutch add glamour. This is perfect for winter weddings, parties, special dinners, or any occasion where you want to make a statement. The white button-up keeps the look grounded and sophisticated, proving that this wardrobe staple can go anywhere.
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Styling Tips for White Shirts
- Keep them crisp: White shirts look best when they’re bright, clean, and well-pressed. Invest in a good stain remover and iron (or steamer).
- Get the fit right: Too loose looks sloppy; too tight looks uncomfortable. Your white shirts should skim your body without pulling or bunching.
- Layer strategically: White shirts work beautifully under sweaters (let the collar and cuffs show) or under blazers (make sure they don’t bunch).
- Tuck or half-tuck: A full tuck creates polish; a half-tuck (front only) feels more relaxed and modern.
- Accessorize thoughtfully: White shirts are the perfect backdrop for statement jewelry, scarves, or bold accessories.
- Stick to neutrals or add color: White shirts pair effortlessly with neutrals (black, navy, gray, camel, brown) but also pop beautifully with jewel tones or brights.
YouTube
5 Effortless Ways To Elegantly Style A White Shirt
In this exciting video, I will show you how to take one simple white blouse and transform it into five stunning, versatile looks that will make you feel confident and stylish for any occasion. I’ll guide you through each outfit, providing valuable tips and tricks on how to mix and match accessories, layering techniques, and unique ways to wear the blouse for different body types.
So if you’re looking to elevate your style and make the most out of your wardrobe, then this video is a must-watch!
When to Invest in New White Shirts (And When to Shop Your Closet)
Keep What You Have If:
- Your white shirts are still bright (not yellowed or dingy)
- They fit well and feel comfortable
- The fabric is in good condition (no thinning, pilling, or holes)
- You actually wear them
Invest in New Ones if:
- Your current white shirts are yellowed, stained, or worn out
- The fit isn’t right (too big, too small, awkward length)
- You don’t have both a button-up AND a tee
- You need better-quality fabrics that hold up longer
Quality matters: Look for cotton or cotton-blend button-ups with good structure, and soft, substantial tees that aren’t see-through. You don’t need expensive designer versions—you just need well-made pieces that last.
Shop Beth’s White Top Picks at Every Price Point
Amazon Finds:
- ¾ Sleeve Scoopneck Tee
- Short Sleeve Harley Tee
- Softstyle Cotton Tees (pack of 2)
- Regular Fit Poplin Button Down
- Wrinkle-Free Button Down
- Oxford Cotton Button Down Shirt
Closing Thoughts
The White Shirts in Your Closet Are More Versatile Than You Think
If you’re doing the January Wardrobe Reset with me, I hope this post convinces you that white shirts—both button-ups and tees—are worth keeping. They’re not just basics taking up space; they’re foundational pieces that make getting dressed easier and elevate everything they touch. Before you purge your closet, make sure these two staples have earned their place—and if they haven’t, it might just be because you haven’t been styling them right. A white button-up and a white tee are two of the hardest-working pieces in any winter wardrobe. They layer, they polish, they create contrast, and they never go out of style. If you already own them, style them with intention. And if you don’t? These are the two pieces worth adding to your wardrobe reset.
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