I love a good button down.
So much so that almost all of my tops are button downs. Which is surprising because not only am I plus sized, I have an hour glass figure and large bust. T_T
Originally intended for men, the construction of a button up was designed for someone with very little (or no) curves. It is true that the construction of button ups have slowly transformed with darting and patterns to fit a larger audience, but even so, looking for a button up is a painstaking (and probably delusional) task.
Originally intended for men, the construction of a button up was designed for someone with very little (or no) curves. It is true that the construction of button ups have slowly transformed with darting and patterns to fit a larger audience, but even so, looking for a button up is a painstaking (and probably delusional) task.
Over the years I have come to terms with never looking like This Is England's Lol (or even Woody for that matter).
This look is generally geared for skinny people because most "looks" are, big surprise. God knows I wouldn't be caught dead with my shirt tucked into my jeans. But there are some girls who just live and breath this lifestyle no matter what size they are and I really admire that. I wish I could say I was that confident. Or that stylish.
I can only hope Part One of my button down review will help them and the many other struggling to find The Perfect Button Down.
This Zara button up was a pleasant surprise. I almost never find anything at Zara, so I was so excited I almost bought it in two colors.
- Pros: Fits my bust, good quality fabric, somewhat expensive, good for tucking into skirts or high waisted pants
- Cons: high-low cut is not long enough (for me), the arms fits me but there could be problems if you have thicker forearms.
I ordered this off an E-bay site (comment if you want the link) and was very surprised with the fit. I got an XXL because I wasn't sure on the sizing, but as you can tell from the collar, the shirt is over sized. My guess is that this XXL would fit up to a size 20 or 22.
- Pros: very long, comes in bigger sizes, very cheap
- Cons: poor quality and I am not sure of the conditions it was manufactured.
This is actually a men's button down, but hey, sometimes you have to be creative. This shirt was perfect for layering in the winter. I thrifted this piece from Meeps.
- Pros: fits over my hips and waist, good quality and pattern, great for layering
- Cons: creates a boxy shape, arms are a little too long.
Another men's shirt, but this one was a gift from my friend in Texas. This is one of those shirts that people either love or they hate. I personally love it and it is hands down one of the most comfortable shirts I own.
- Pros: comfortable, fits over my hips and waist, makes my torso look longer
- Cons: the collar gets wrinkly easily, doesn't match with everything
That is all for now! I have so many more button downs to review and I hope this helps some of y'all. Don't give up! There are options out there, you just have to keep on looking.
What are issues you have when looking for a button up?
