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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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.

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.

Cotton Gauze Button Down: Wearing XS in ‘Hot Pink’
White Maxi Dress: Wearing size S

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.

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.