Every fashion season has its go-to pieces: trench coats, little black boots, great jeans. This spring and summer, though, South Africans are giving the button-down shirt a fresh new look.
What used to be a borrowed-from-the-boys staple is now the base for our most creative summer outfits. Why the sudden interest?
Edited reports that global searches for “oversized shirt” and “blue button-down” are up more than 30% this year.
It’s one piece that can go from a beach cover-up to a boardroom to a rooftop sundowner without you having to change your shoes.
We’re moving past the usual “capsule” wardrobe staples. A classic trench is still great for a cool Joburg morning, but this summer is all about shirts that work for anything: brunch, the office or last-minute drinks.
Even minimalist bags, stylish flats and dressier pieces are showing up in our daytime outfits.
South Africans are also changing things up each season. More people are clearing out clothes they don’t wear and focusing on making the most of their favourite basics, instead of buying a whole new wardrobe.
True blues are the season’s MVP
You probably have a crisp white shirt in your closet. This summer, though, designers like The Row and Filippa K are all about blue, thinking every shade from cobalt to cerulean.
These shirts might remind you of office wear, but they feel fun and fresh, especially with summer fabrics. Even die-hard neutral lovers are saying yes.
@shaakiraa___ Ootd: Summer outfits loading… ✨ #summer2025 #outfitsinspo #ootdinspiration #fashiontok ♬ som original – andromeda
Think of it as the new neutral. In fact, colour psychology studies published in the Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management show that blue is perceived as both calming and confident, making it the perfect tone for a post-pandemic style reset.
How South Africans can style the blue button-down
Tucked into tailored trousers: Nothing is easier than a blue shirt tucked into black pants. Wear classic loafers now and switch to thong sandals come December. Add a slim belt and small silver hoops to polish an easy commute-to-cocktail look for Sandton or Seapoint.
Open over white jeans and a tank: A head-to-toe white look screams summer. Layer a bright blue shirt over a ribbed tank, push up the sleeves, and finish with kitten-heel sandals and a woven basket bag. It’s minimal effort, high impact, and perfectly suited to Durban’s sticky afternoons.
Oversized and effortless: Oversized shirts one or two sizes up are dominating street style from Braamfontein to Bree Street. Pair with skinny jeans or fitted trousers to balance the volume. Or throw over a slip dress for a brunch-ready, sun-safe layer.
The key is proportion; if the top is slouchy, the bottom should give you shape.
Playful twists: Roll up the sleeves. Tuck in only the front.
Tie it at the waist over shorts, keep a classic shirt feeling fresh without buying anything new.
Classic doesn’t have to be boring
Today’s button-downs come in cropped hems, asymmetrical cuts, and soft linen blends that flatter a range of body types. According to a survey by online retailer Superbalist, South African shoppers rank “comfort and versatility” as their top purchase driver for summer clothing.
Our climate demands clothes that multitask. Mornings can be cool, afternoons blazing, evenings breezy. A breathable shirt worn open, knotted or layered is a sensible choice.
