What Color T-Shirt Looks Good Under a Navy Button-Down?

Of all the classic wardrobe staples, a navy button-down ranks right at the top of both men and women’s must-have items. When you’re looking to wear your blue button-down as a layering piece or simply want to let a little color peek through, the right tee can help you stay conservative or elevate your go-to shirt to a new level of fun and funky.

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White and Other Neutrals

Whether you’re male or female, you can never go wrong when you put on a bright-white tee under a navy button-down shirt. But white isn't the only neutral that makes a classic statement -- ivory, heather-gray, tan and beige are particularly appropriate in the fall when fashion trends incorporate warm, earthy hues. As a general rule, stay away from black under navy, as the contrast is too minimal to make an impact.

Bold and Bright

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If you’re looking to jazz up your otherwise simple button-down, reach for a bright, vibrant T-shirt. Women can get away with coral and turquoise tops, along with a variety of citrus colors such as lemon yellow and tangerine. Both men and women can make a bold statement with a red tee. The navy and red look has subtle patriotic elements, making this combo a great look for summer holiday parties and backyard barbecues. Just be sure to leave the shirt open to show off your vibrant color choice 1.

  • If you’re looking to jazz up your otherwise simple button-down, reach for a bright, vibrant T-shirt.
  • Both men and women can make a bold statement with a red tee.

Pastels

Brights aren’t the only game in town, pastels play as a springtime look for women who wish to make a button-down a little more feminine. Reach for a baby-pink, ice-blue or light butter-yellow tee to add a romantic vibe to your dark-blue shirt. Because orange is a complementary color to blue, a soft-peach tone also works well as a contrast to navy.

Stripes

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From a subtle tan-and-ivory to a bold red-and-white, striped tees offer a classic look that provide the perfect way to walk the line between conservative and fashion-forward. The decidedly nautical feel of a striped shirt under a navy button-down is polished and pulled together. Add a pair of white capris or khaki trousers, and you have a striking ensemble that’s ready to set sail.

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