Summer is here and it’s a perfect time to build a lightweight Hawaiian style button up shirt into your wardrobe!

Layers always add interest to a look, but it can be hard to use layers in the summer heat though, especially if you don’t want to end up all sweaty and miserable. Fortunately, there are some light breathable options that can go a long way. One staple summery button up can be styled many ways so you look hot while staying cool!

The easiest way to wear a button up in summer is to simply layer it over a cami, t-shirt, or a crop top and leave it unbuttoned and floating loose around you. This lets a nice breeze under the shirt to keep you cool while looking effortless.

If you love an asymmetric look, try tucking in just one side of the front of the shirt and leaving the other side loose. This one-in one-out style keeps it loosey goosey while creating a slightly more curated appearance.

You can get the appearance of a fully tucked in button up without having to mess with actually wedging all of that fabric under your waistband. Button the bottom one or two buttons and just tuck in the very front of the shirt. The remaining fabric will bunch up around your waist on its own. From here you can always play with how many buttons are done up to change up the effect!

Take on a more commanding presence by tucking the sleeves into the shirt. Reach inside the sleeve, grab the edge, and pull it back through to give the illusion of a sharp shoulder or sleeveless shirt. If you want to wear this version for an extended time, you might want to try pinning the sleeves in place. Set the safety pins under the collar so they stay hidden.

Tying up the sides of the shirt around the natural waist or under the bust is a classic look that can be tricky to make look good.  Let me show you an easier way that looks cute and doesn’t have the bulk of tying a normal knot.

• First, button two neighboring buttons where you want the tie to sit.
• Take one corner of the shirt and pull it through the opening between the two buttons.
• Take the other corner of the shirt and pull it through the loop of the first corner.
• Pull on the corners to snug them tight and manipulate the edges of the shirt so that the pattern shows and the underside is hidden.

You’re all set!

Shop my button ups here!

How would you style a button up for summer? Let me know in the comments!