4 Ways to Style a Cotton Gauze Button Down for Work & Weekends

There are so many days in the summer when I just crave a light layer over my outfit—whether it’s for some sun coverage, or to keep away the office chills. My issue with cardigans is I was cycling through them super quickly, and tired of the same boring looks. Then came the cotton gauze button-down. This more versatile option has been a game-changer for my summer outfits. So in this post, I will share 4 different ways on how to style the cotton gauze button down that take you from work to weekend.

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How to Style Quince Organic Cotton Gauze Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt 4 Different Ways for Summer: (1) with satin slip skirt, (2) with a maxi dress, (3) with linen shorts, (4) as a swimsuit cover-up.

Button Down (XS) | Slip Skirt (XS) | White Maxi Dress (S) | Black Linen Shorts | Swimsuit (4)

Outfit Idea 1: Cotton Gauze Button Down & Slip Skirt

An office-appropriate way to style a cotton gauze button down is with a satin slip skirt! (For this light green skirt, I probably could have paired it with a top that’s a touch lighter) I love this look because it creates a nice balance in texture. You have the natural crinkle from the gauze, which contrasts nicely against the smooth, lustrous texture of the skirt.

Quince Organic Cotton Gauze Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt styled as an outfit for work with a satin slip skirt and pointed toe slip-on slides.

  • Cotton Gauze Button Down: Wearing size XS. I am in-between sizes XS and S, but sized down for a slightly more tailored look.
  • Slip Skirt: Wearing size S. One of my favorite elegant pieces that I can still style for the everyday.

Outfit Idea 2: Cotton Gauze Button Down & Maxi Dress

Another way I style my cotton gauze button down for the office is wearing it over a maxi dress or jumpsuit. When tied above the waist, I love the rule-of-thirds proportion it creates. I styled the ‘Hot Pink’ color here, and the color feels 80% red, 20% pink. Not too overpowering, and acts as a nice contrast against a white outfit.

Quince Organic Cotton Gauze Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt styled over a cotton maxi dress for an easy summer outfit.

Outfit Idea 3: Wear It Over a Romper or With Shorts

Transitioning to weekend looks, I love wearing my cotton gauze button-down as a light layer over my summer outfit. The possibilities are quite endless here. You can pair it with a romper, or separates (shorts + bralette / tank / tee). I am a huge fan of Quince’s linen shorts (also styled HERE), which would make a great companion for their cotton gauze button-down. Also sharing the link to a similar pair of platform sandals that have a comfy, waterproof EVA sole.

Quince Organic Cotton Gauze Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt worn over a pair of black linen shorts and platform sandals for an easy laidback summer outfit.

Outfit 4: Style It As a Swimsuit Cover-Up!

One of my favorite and final ways to style a cotton gauze button down is as a swimsuit cover-up. They are lightweight and breathable enough for the beach, but while a little extra sun coverage. My swimsuit is from Summersalt (reviewed HERE) – use code ‘VIANNAJS10‘ for $10 off full-priced purchases.

Quince Organic Cotton Gauze Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt styled as a cover-up for the Summersalt One-Piece Swimsuit.

Thank you for visiting Styled by Science—a fashion blog through the lens of a textile technologist. Get to know Vianna better by reading her story HERE.

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