This Simple Trend Will Make a Basic Outfit Feel Less "Plain"

While timeless in nature, the classic button-down shirt has also been trending this season amongst the fashion crowd. Sure, an oxford blouse could be considered "plain” in theory, but its polished silhouette is what makes it an ideal piece in some of the chicest, effortless ‘fits. And as we’ve been spotting on the ‘gram recently, there’s one shirting trend that can enhance those button-down looks even more.
Yep, talking about the tie-front shirting vibe here. Whether purchased as an intentional tie-front top or tied on its own from a regular oversized shirt, the addition of this easy piece will take any simple ensemble to the next level as it will bring extra dimension to a look.
To showcase what we mean, we rounded up a bit of visual inspiration featuring the top. And if you’re shopping at the moment, we’re also showcasing how to master each look as well.
A tie-front white shirt is classic yet trendy with faded jeans.
For an effortlessly chic ensemble, consider teaming a tie-front blouse with an easy midi skirt and strappy sandals.
Bring your black blouse and high-waisted denim vibe to another dimension with a knotted shirt.
This vibe is similar to the previous skirt look, but features a maxi skirt instead for a comfortable yet unique silhouette.
A pastel tie-front shirt and light-wash jeans is fresh and cool for summer.
Your favorite pair of leggings will actually look quite stylish with a white blouse.
Next, check out more chic basics to consider now.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
The Easy-Yet-Elevated Outfit Formula Fashion People Will Be Wearing Straight Into Fall
Here are seven takes on the chic look.
-
Looking Chic at the Airport in 2025 Means Wearing This Shirt Trend and Shoe Trend With Jeans
It's just too easy.
-
I'm So Not Ready for Fall—16 Pretty Tops From Zara and H&M I'm Shopping to Keep the Summer Vibes Going
Polka dots and halters ahead.
-
Cooler Than a White Button-Down: This Specific Shirt Color Is the Key to Looking Chic This Fall
It's all over the streets and the spring/summer 2026 runways.
-
This Simple Fashion Person–Approved Layering Technique Changed the Way I Wear My Basics
Effortlessly cool.
-
Cue the Makeover Montage: My Bestie Wants a Closet Refresh, so I Sent This List of 11 Must-Have Basics
Lace-trimmed skirts and mesh ballet flats ahead.
-
5 Shirt Trends Everyone in NYC Is Wearing With Trousers and Jeans
Make your next outfit more interesting.
-
People Are Skipping Plain White Tank Tops for the Trend That Makes Outfits So Much Cooler
Texture for the win.