Style Guide: Button-Up vs. Button-Down Shirts – What Every Man Should Know

At its core, the difference lies in the collar. A button-up shirt is any shirt that fastens all the way up the front with buttons. This includes dress shirts, formal shirts, and even some casual styles. It’s the foundation of most men’s wardrobes.

A button-down shirt, on the other hand, is a specific type of button-up that features small buttons at the collar points. These buttons fasten the collar to the shirt, preventing it from flapping around. This design originated in the 19th century when British polo players needed a way to keep their collars in place during matches. The style caught on, and today, it’s a staple in smart-casual and preppy fashion.

As Taelor Lead Stylist Melissa Slavick puts it simply, “Every button-down shirt is a button-up, but not every button-up shirt is a button-down.”

Want some help finding clothes that will make you the best possible version this season? Let Taelor help. Taelor is a menswear rental subscription service dedicated to helping men look their best when it matters most. Our styling service, powered by a human stylist and assisted by artificial intelligence, finds the clothes that help you win – at work, on a date, at a party, or wherever you spend your time.

In general, yes. Most button-up shirts—especially those with a structured spread or point collar—are considered more formal than button-down shirts. They are the go-to choice for professional settings, black-tie events, and occasions where a suit and tie are expected. 

However, don’t rule out button-down shirts just yet. As Melissa Slavick points out, “A high-quality button-down shirt can absolutely work for a formal occasion. It’s all about the fabric, fit, and styling.” A button-down made from a crisp cotton fabric can pair well with a blazer and dress pants, making it a versatile choice for business-casual settings.

If you’re aiming for a sharp, dressed-up look, a button-up shirt with a stiff collar is your best bet. But if you want a relaxed, effortless vibe that still looks polished, a casual button-down shirt is the way to go.

This depends on the cut and style of the shirt. Dress shirts, which are a type of button-up, are almost always designed to be tucked in. Their longer tails make them look awkward when left untucked, and they pair best with dress pants or suits.

However, like button-down shirts, some casual button-ups are designed with a shorter hem, meaning they can be worn untucked. Linen and chambray button-ups are great examples—they work well untucked with jeans or chinos for a relaxed but stylish look.

A quick trick to determine whether your shirt should be tucked? Check the hem. If it’s long and uneven, tuck it in. If it’s short and even all around, you can leave it untucked.

Styling these shirts correctly can elevate your look and make sure you’re dressed appropriately for any occasion.

• For formal events – Stick to a structured button-up shirt with a spread or point collar. Pair it with a suit and tie for a polished, professional look.

• For business casual settings – A button-down shirt with chinos and loafers strikes the perfect balance between professional and relaxed.

• For a casual weekend look – A casual button-down shirt worn untucked with jeans or tailored shorts keeps things stylish and effortless.

When in doubt, button-ups generally lean dressier, while button-downs have a more laid-back feel. But remember, rules can be bent as long as the fit and fabric work for the occasion.

At the end of the day, knowing the difference between a button-up vs. button-down shirt helps you make more informed style choices. A button-up is a versatile staple that works in both formal and casual settings, while a button-down adds a sporty, relaxed touch to your wardrobe.

Still not sure? No need to worry. Our stylists have it all figured out. Sign up and reach out so you never have to second-guess your shirt choice again. With Taelor, you’ll have exactly what you need—and also have expert guidance on how to style it right.