The 21 Best Free People Gifts For The Most Specific Friends On Your List

Is your list of people to shop for growing by the second? It’s as if one day you have three friends you’re planning on gifting loungewear to and then the next day, you’re surfing the internet for budget-friendly cashmere picks for your luxe relative. But what do you get for those specific hard-to-shop-for people? No need to fret, as Free People’s gift shop is open for business, and the brand has everything from festive home decor to workout gear to pillowy jackets — which our editors reviewed and loved. You can now check off your list with only a click.

To ease you into Free People’s never-ending carousel of holiday gifts, we’ve categorized each section by superlatives. So get going and find the right present for your loved one. It’s your choice whether you gift the whole bundle or browse through for your — I mean their — fave. Happy gifting!

For The Christmas Tree-Obsessed

If they deck the halls with boughs of holly and jazz up their Christmas tree with quirky ornaments, they’ll love this holiday decor. There’s everything from a playful embroidered ornament with a handmade touch to a shiny color-coordinating set.

For The Yogi In Your Life

Does it seem like your yoga-loving friend only has a rotation of black activewear? Gift them a new set of colorful workout attire that’ll add a pop of color to their wardrobe. And since the weather is chillier, they’ll appreciate a snuggly thermal long-sleeve top and cozy knit leggings. For the cherries on top — because Free People has too many great gifts — add a cute oversize quilted gym bag and a new pair of lightweight and colorful sneakers.

For The Celeb Devotee

Celebrities always have the best street-style looks to grab inspiration from. Luckily, if the person you’re gifting is always on top of the latest celeb trends, Free People offers easy access to all the must-have items.

If your friend gravitates toward effortless pieces they can throw on after the gym or for errands, they’ll adore the Hit the Slopes Pullovers — the style is one of Kaia Gerber and Hailey Bieber’s favorites. Meanwhile, opt for Selena Gomez’s baggy wide-leg jeans or Chanel Iman’s equestrian-style boots for the fashion enthusiast in your life. You know they’re always looking for new additions. The homebodies will adore Free People’s bestselling Hailee Sweater set — Ashley Tisdale and Selena Gomez do.

For The Ultimate Holiday Host

There’s a Monica Geller in every friend group. You know the one who loves playing host, creates the perfect charcuterie board, and has the best-smelling house. While they probably already have an extensive list of dishes to make, it never hurts to add to their party collection with a card game and a new martini shaker. You know to bring that bit of convivial holiday spirit to the party.

For The One Whose Pet Is Their Baby

Who needs presents more than anyone? Your fur babies. It’s not fair if you’re the only one wearing their best for the holidays or receiving presents.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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15 Great Last-Minute Gifts From Nordstrom That You Can Get FAST

If you’re feeling the increasing pressure of that looming December 24th deadline but have yet to finish your holiday shopping, you’re in luck. Nordstrom, our favorite they-have-everything destination, has a plethora of perfect gifts from the worlds of home, fashion, and beauty — and the speed-shipping power to ensure all your gifts make it to their destinations by your deadline. From expedited two-day shipping to curbside pickup, you can comfortably click “add to cart” knowing your present will get to you (or your giftee) in time.

The retailer offers detailed instructions on its site to help shoppers optimize its quick-shipping options, including the option to calculate shipping lead times while your goods are still in the cart or filter search results by a product’s availability for curbside pickup. Now that you’re confident you’ll have gifts to wrap in time, don’t endlessly stress-scroll the website, frantically looking for everything you need. Keep on scrolling (but like, in a relaxed way) to see the best last-minute gifts Nordstrom has to offer — from a trio set of Maison Margiela’s best-selling smelling candles, an aesthetically-pleasing tea kettle to the Marc Jacobs crossbody and a viral gua sha — and rest assured that all of your treasures will arrive with time to spare.

Home Gifts

Oscar De La Renta Coralina 4-Piece Setting, $180

Gift your luxe relative or friend a lustrous porcelain plate setting from Oscar De La Renta. Don’t be surprised if you only see it being used on special occasions because of its elegant and delicate appearance.

Maison Margiela Replica Candle Trio, $85

Not sure which scent profile your friend prefers? Gift them a trio set of Maison Margiela’s top three best-selling scents — By The Fireplace is of course included. Each candle is 2.5 ounces, which is generous enough to let them enjoy a new scent for a few hours without committing them to a full-size candle.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw Blanket, $147

Gift your friend who lives in only loungewear a cuddly and warm microfiber throw blanket, which is the perfect touch for chilly days and nights.

Le Creuset 9 Inch Enamel Cast Iron Skillet, $175 $120

We are all here for any Le Creuset sale. We want it all, whether it’s the deep dutch oven, cocotte, or skillet. Your cooking fanatic bestie will adore a new cast iron skillet for their kitchen and daily use.

Fellow Stagg EKG Electric Pour Over Kettle, $165

I live and breathe by my Fellow kettle. All the color palettes are aesthetically pleasing, so it perfectly fits any kitchen. Plus, making tea or any hot beverage is incredibly easy to do with its temperature control and precision-pour spout.

Fashion Gifts

Free People Sweater Weather V-Neck Sweater $128 $76.80

This oversized super-soft fleece from Free People is the perfect way to bundle up, whether over a winter-ready dress or on its own. Coming in 10 colorways, you have the option of a sea blue, this unique marzipan color, olive green, peach, and a plethora of others.

Marc Jacobs The Snapshot Leather Crossbody Bag $325

There’s no doubt that Marc Jacobs handbags have been iconic this year. Your label-loving giftee will definitely appreciate this recognizable purse in whatever colorway you choose, from classic white to chic green. For a slightly more budget-friendly option, any iteration of the Marc Jacobs tote allows them to show off their love of the designer in style.

UGG Scuffette II Slipper, $95

Trimmed and lined with water-resistant suede and genuine shearling, these UGG slippers are just what your cozy heart desires. More than 2,700 reviewers swear by them, saying, “I will never purchase any other slipper. [They’re] so comfortable for the house and to wear all day.”

Kendra Scott Elisa Birthstone Pendant Necklace, $55

Make your jewelry gift extra special with an oversized, faceted stone from your giftee’s birthday month. Plated in 14K gold, this necklace comes in all of the 12 birthstones — although some months have already sold out.

UGG Classic II Genuine Shearling Lined Short Boot, $170

Is it even a gift guide without a mention of the classic UGGs? While they may not explicitly be on everyone’s gift lists, the iconic shoes are definitely still the most wanted. With over 2,900 fervent reviews, these boots come in seven different — already selling out — colorways.

Beauty Gifts

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Twist & Spray Test, $186

Undeniably sexy and iconic, this highly-coveted Chanel set includes the Coco Mademoiselle 3oz Eau de Parfum with a chic refillable travel spray. Both fresh and luxurious, this is the fragrance to go from workday to late night.

Charlotte Tilbury Iconic Mini Lip Trio Set, $32

This mini Charlotte Tilbury set includes the mini versions of bestselling Matte Revolution Lipsticks in the shades Pillow Talk, Walk of No Shame, and Supermodel. It’s a top-shelf-ready gift for all the makeup-collecting besties on your list.

Dyson Supersonic^™ Hair Dryer, $429.99

If you’re more of a go-big-or-go-home gifter, there’s no denying the power of this luxury Dyson blowdryer. If your giftee has longingly bookmarked one of these iconic, fanatically-reviewed hair tools, there’s no better time than the present to give them what their heart desires — even if it’s a $400 blowdryer.

Osea Gua Sha Sculptor, $32

I’m sure you’ve seen the gua sha stone all over your TikTok this year, as the buzzy skincare tool that officially replaced jade and rose quartz rollers. If you haven’t seen them, then the person you’re gifting this to definitely has.

La Mer Crème de la Mer Moisturizing Cream $100

The hefty price tag on La Mer’s iconic cream seems more than worth it, according to over 8.5K worth-the-hype reviews. Made for sensitive and dry skin, it contains the kelp-rich, cell-renewing Miracle Broth that is La Mer’s signature ingredient, and it promises to keep your face radiant and rejuvenated.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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We Scoured The Internet For The Best White Button-Downs

We've read that the late, great Karl Lagerfeld owned over 1,000 of his now-iconic Hilditch & Key white button-down shirts. Can you blame him? Once you find a white button-down that fits your body and wardrobe, you're committed for life. The beauty of this wardrobe staple is how it can elevate the most quotidian of outfits, from sweatpants (yes!) to jeans (obviously) to evening wear (definitely). The shirt's status as an icon of professionalism and formality is both upheld by corporate culture the world over and subverted by countless artists, designers, and other assorted "downtown types" (you know who you are).

Of course, to optimize this wardrobe staple for every possible outfit, the fit and functionality of your white button-down have got to be spot-on, so we've scoured the internet for some of the best white button-down shirts for women, including the coolest styles and hard-to-find fits so that you can look extra put-together without pinching or gapping. And as always, we've included only the examples that have earned serious accolades from vocal shoppers.

Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star-and-up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Free People's We The Free Summer Daydream Button Down

The Best Slouchy & Relaxed Fit White Button-Down

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 284 reviews on FreePeople.com

Throw on this button-down for that rolled-out-of-bed-like-this vibe — only better. The soft, slouchy fit with its raw hemline and already worn-in fabrication adds to the overall laid-back, effortlessly chic persona.

"Obsessed. I waited so long to get this in the white color. It was a splurge but I am so happy with my purchase," raves a reviewer. "It flows on the body so beautifully and leaves me feeling chic and confident. Perfect over any outfit and also makes the cutest swim coverup!"


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We The Free We The Free Summer Daydream Buttondown, $, available at Free People

The Best Silky White Button-Down

Everlane The Silky Cotton Relaxed Shirt

The Hype: 4.44 out of 5 stars; 419 reviews on Everlane.com

If you sweat or get hot easily (but still need to look presentable), get yourself a white button-down in the naturally cooling fabric of silk.

"It's comfortable, lightweight, versatile and flattering. The button-down is a perfect staple that I want to wear it everyday," raves a reviewer. "It looks cute tucked into high-waist jeans, dressed up if needed, or untucked for a more casual look. Everlane just does button ups so well."

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Everlane The Silky Cotton Relaxed Shirt, $, available at Everlane

Uniqlo Rayon Long-Sleeve Blouse

The Best Elegant Button-Down

The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 431 reviews on Uniqlo.com

Uniqlo's long-sleeved button-down is a closet staple in a crisp and professional white, but it also has real "need it in every color" potential. First, you'll fall in love with the piece's luxe appearance, then the versatility that makes it work for any upscale or business casual needs. And the under-$40 pricetag makes it easy to snag in accompanying pastels and neutral shades.

"I love the lightweight need and luxury look of the blouse. It looks great and professional for work or a fun day out with the girls," writes a reviewer. "I would definitely recommend this product. Great for mix and matching [with] any outfit."

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Uniqlo Rayon Long-Sleeve Blouse, $, available at Uniqlo

Anthropologie's Meme Embellished Button-Down Tunic

The Best High Fashion White Button-Down

The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on Anthropologie.com

Are you in the mood to spice up your wardrobe? Is everything starting to look the same? Opt for this pearl-embellished button-down. It's playful and polished and will still act as a versatile wardrobe piece while standing out.

"This isn't your typical white shirt! The pearls on this shirt are a very welcome detail, it adds a special detail on what would be an ordinary top," notes a reviewer. She adds that she styled the shirt in question with jeans and heels for a dressed-up look with lots of classic polish, nothing "I also tuck one side in to give a little flair."

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Mememe Mememe Embellished Buttondown Tunic, $, available at Anthropologie

Good American Tabbed Poplin Shirt

The Best Oversized Button-Down Shirt With Elevated Sleeves

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 44 reviews on GoodAmerican.com

Good American specializes in basics that are far from basic. In this case, this high-low top is not only a crisp, posh white, but it has an elevated touch at the wrists. With its removable belted cuff, you get a dainty cinched look.

"I love the shirt and the fit," writes a reviewer. "It's an oversized fit, but still flattering. The sleeves are also so unique too. I'm obsessed." Another reviewer praised the amount of detail that went into the intricately designed shirt. "Honestly, for the very reasonable price point[,] it's the nicest quality, cut, and construction that I've seen in a long time."

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Good American Tabbed Poplin Shirt, $, available at Good American

Abercrombie & Fitch Oversized Poplin Button-Up Shirt

The Best Classic Oversized Button-Down

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 90 reviews on Abercrombie.com

The internet has spoken, and 2022's style icon is Meredith Blake from The Parent Trap. For one happy customer, however, this top was all about the movie's true unsung fashion icon, Chessy.

"This shirt reminds me of Chessy from The Parent Trap. And I absolutely love it," writes a reviewer who we couldn't agree with more. "I paired it with my Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans and some flip flops for the summer!"

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Abercrombie & Fitch Oversized Poplin Button-Up Shirt, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

J.Crew Classic-Fit Cozy Gauze Shirt

The Best Classic White Button-Down

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 126 reviews on JCrew.com

As far as classic white button-downs go, J.Crew knows a thing or two: The preppy-cool brand has been crafting crisp oxford shirts since the 1940s. This cozy cotton-gauze style is no exception to its unprecedented tailoring excellence.

"I have to add my voice to all the others saying this is the best shirt ever," writes one reviewer, praising its season-agnostic style. "Perfect cozy shirt for warm weather, or as a coverup for hot sun. I love the long lean silhouette — and the fit and drape are beautiful. And, it is sexy despite being totally modest. A magician designed this!"

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J.Crew Classic-Fit Double Gauze Shirt, $, available at J.Crew

Madewell White Cotton Courier Shirt

The Best Short-Sleeve White Button-Down

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 252 reviews on Madewell.com

Oftentimes, white button-downs are reserved for formal environments. This boxy, short-sleeved version is a refreshing antidote to the fitted look.

"I have always loved Madewell's courier shirts. They work super well for tiny people, especially those with small frames and short torsos," writes one reviewer, who adores this shirt as a petite. But, that's not all — the reviewer also loves that it's work-appropriate. "Another important thing about this particular shirt is that it is super thick. No see-through here. I teach so it's important that my professional shirts don't allow my bra to be seen. I'm pretty sure my students think I live in it."

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Madewell White Cotton Courier Shirt, $, available at Madewell

Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Button-Down Poplin Shirt

The Best White Button-Down On Amazon

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 13,230 reviews on Amazon.com

Over 13,000 Amazon reviewers rave about this very affordable button-down's classic tailoring, comfortable fit, and wrinkle resistance.

"This shirt, the poplin, is lighter weight and wrinkles much less straight from the dryer. [It's] a men's style fit, with no darts to nip in the waist," writes one reviewer, who prefers the "boyfriend" fit. The details are not to be overlooked, either: "The cuff is crisp and has a double button to make turning the cuff once or twice secure and tidy. This style is best for layering, as it is light and cool. I rarely buy items before they go on sale, but I would pay full price again. Perfect."

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Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Long Sleeve Button Down Poplin Shirt, $, available at Amazon

Alex Mill Kit Shirt In Paper Poplin

The Best Peter Pan Collar White Button-Down

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 15 reviews on Alexmill.com

Talk about charming! This button-down has a cute peter pan collar, adorable sleeves that are slightly puffed, and a gathered detail at the cuffs and back. It's super unique and non-boring to say the least.

"Reminds me of a French painter's shirt but more stylish. This is nicely oversized and comfortable. Goes with a lot of items already in my closet," says one reviewer. "Plan to purchase a couple more colors as it’s really hard to find a woman’s shirt that fits this nice with unique sleeves and collar. Like the buttons too."

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Alex Mill Kit Shirt in Paper Poplin, $, available at Alex Mill

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse

The Best Washable Silk White Button-Down

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 856 reviews on Onequince.com

If you want a more elevated Oxford, a silky white button-down goes a long way. Put one on and you'll automatically look more luxe, more professional, and more evening-ready.

"I've spent years looking for a silk button-up. Cotton ones tend to be too stiff on my frame (petite with curves) but silk tops have always been towards the $100 range, which is unrealistic for me," writes one reviewer who finally find their unicorn. "My search for this top is how I found Quince in the first place. Really happy to fill out my wardrobe for work/events/daily life with this staple piece!"

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Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse, $, available at Quince

Columbia Bahama L/S Shirt

The Best White Button-Down For Sporting & Outdoors

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 494 reviews on Zappos.com

Spoiler alert: Technically, this is a fishing shirt — but it also has a mind-boggling, perfect 5-star rating pulled from 430+ reviews. Obviously, that warranted a closer look. As it turns out, this white button-down is perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities — but it suits non-sporty folks just as well.

"Although I don't fish, I like the extra pockets for storage and the way you can roll up the sleeves and keep them up," writes one reviewer who can't get enough pockets. "They are also very cool in the hot sun and come in great colors. I now have 3 of them and will be on the hunt for a few more." With strategic cooling features and quick-dry fabrication, this button-down is great for warmer days or for travel as well.

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Columbia Bahama™ L/S Shirt, $, available at Zappos

Banana Republic Classic-Fit Poplin Shirt

The Best Fitted White Button-Down

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 191 reviews on Bananarepublic.gap.com

Classic. Tailored. Crisp. Easy to tuck in. What more could you ask for in a white button-down? And, if easy upkeep is important to you, this particular Oxford is also made from 100% cotton, which means you can just throw it in the wash for that back-to-crisp reset.

"My go-to button-up shirt. The material feels so crisp and light on my skin. Love it," sums up one reviewer's straightforward testimonial.

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Banana Republic Classic-Fit Poplin Shirt, $, available at Banana Republic

Riders By Lee Indigo Women's Easy Car Three-Quarter Sleeve Woven Shirt

The Best White Button-Down For Big Busts

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 8,531 reviews on Amazon.com

There's no greater fit enemy than the dreaded gap, which can be the scourge of any cup size in an ill-fitting button-down. That being said, it certainly plagues our bigger-busted sisters more regularly, so we sought out the most gap-reducing style tailored for larger chests — and we found it on Amazon.

"I have owned several of these shirts. They fit great and are made for big-busted women. They have 2 buttons at the bustline so they don't gap," writes a large-chested reviewer. "I just heard all of the amply endowed women of the world cheer! Yes!!!"

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Riders by Lee Indigo Women's Easy Care ¾ Sleeve Woven Shirt, $, available at Amazon

Ann Taylor Petite Essential Shirt

The Best White Button-Down For Petites

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 116 reviews on Anntaylor.com

A near-unanimous declaration of perfection is rare, but Ann Taylor's Petite Essential Shirt has an almost flawless rating, and we can see why. With a silky fabrication and a dipped neckline, this shirt has the sought-after ability to transition from day to night, and elevate pretty much any outfit.

"Lightweight and versatile!!!!" writes one emphatic reviewer. "I am normally a PS (5'1, 124, 36C) but went with the PM to ensure no gapping." (Thank you for the tip, reviewer!)

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Ann Taylor Petite Essential Shirt, $, available at Ann Taylor

The LYSSÉ Schiffer Shirt

The Best Tall-Fit White Button-Down


The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 59 reviews on Nordstrom.com

Whether you've got a longer torso or simply want to wear a tunic-length button-down, this menswear-inspired style from LYSSÉ offers the coverage you seek.

"Love the material of this shirt and the longer length. It is a bit oversized, so I took an extra small even though I typically wear a small in button-down shirts to have enough room in the bust," writes one strategic shopper. "The slight stretch makes this very comfy. Will wear this tucked in for a more formal look, but also will look great with leggings and even unbuttoned as a layering piece," they write of how they'll style this closet staple.

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Lysse Schiffer Shirt, $, available at Nordstrom

The Best No-Iron White Button-Down

Uniqlo Women Rayon Long-Sleeve Blouse

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 29 reviews on uniqlo.com

You can always count on Uniqlo to pull through with high-quality capsule pieces at affordable price points — and this white button-down is no exception. "Love this blouse. Great for work or dress casual with jeans. Not too thin or sheer," writes one reviewer, who also mentions that they bought this shirt in five different colorways. One highlight of this blouse is that it's made of soft rayon fabric, meaning it's wrinkle-resistant and no ironing is required. "Very little wrinkle after wash and no shrinking. Feels nice and cool in summertime and in the wintertime I wear a heat tech turtle neck under," writes the reviewer on how they layer for cold weather.

Uniqlo WOMEN RAYON LONG-SLEEVE BLOUSE, $, available at Uniqlo

The Best "Vintage" White Button-Down

Abercrombie & Fitch 90s Oversized Button-Up Shirt

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 45 reviews on abercrombie.com

Heads up: A&F was not kidding with either the "90s" or "oversized" callouts when naming this shirt. This button-down is supremely baggy in a '90s grunge-style way — so much so that nearly all the reviewers recommend you size down. "Was looking for the perfect white shirt and this one *almost* fits the bill. It is oversized, originally I got the small but was swimming in it and had to exchange for xs," writes one reviewer, who still loves the top despite its big-ness. "It's a thin lightweight material that is great for layering or for the warmer months. [It's] a bit sheer, I can only wear a nude coloured bra with that. Other than that I love it!" they write.

Abercrombie and Fitch 90s Oversized Button-Up Shirt, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch

The Best Drapey White Button-Down

Treasure & Bond Drapey Classic Shirt

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars, 128 reviews on nordstrom.com

One of the cooler ways to wear your white button-down is with the slightest hint of it not actually belonging to you. While this is descended from a heteronormative trope that we have most certainly evolved beyond, there remains an air of insouciance in sporting a dress shirt that's ever-so-slightly oversized — which means it's also flattering for all body types. "This shirt is so divine. The drapey aspect of the shirt flatters my bigger chest and apple body," writes a reviewer. And yes, this button-down is a little sheer, but don't let that deter you — what other shirt seamlessly works day to night? "I may wear a shirt underneath but I may not," continues the reviewer. "This shirt is so divine. It feels incredible against my skin."

Treasure & Bond Drapey Classic Shirt, $, available at Nordstrom

The Best Relax-Fit White Button-Down

Universal Thread Women's Raglan Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 45 reviews on target.com

As previously stated, the classic white button-down will go with anything — so much so that it'll be worn to death. This is one such shirt that will stay with you till its final threads. "This shirt is perfect, soft, and very comfy. It replaces one that I had for several years that developed frays and holes in the sleeves because I wore it so much," writes one die-hard fan. "This one is taking its place and I am so happy with it so far." Best of all? This one's only $20.

Universal Thread Women's Raglan Long Sleeve Button-Down Shirt, $, available at Target

The Best White Lace Button-Down

Express Lace Inset Button-Up Shirt

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 3 reviews on express.com

After a while, white button-downs all tend to look the same, don't they? This one begs to differ. Take a looksy at the details and you may be smitten by the gorgeous lace insets, just as reviewers have. "Beautiful top. Fits perfectly. I love the feminine look, great quality. LOVE!!" writes one reviewer. In other words, this white button-down dares to be unique while still staying on assignment.

Express Lace Inset Button-Up Shirt, $, available at Express

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Meet MLE, An Accessories Line Specializing In Whimsical Keepsakes

You’re reading an On-Site Shopping story — meaning you can browse, add to cart, and actually purchase the product recommendations featured below without leaving Refinery29. To learn more about our new native checkout feature, click here.

“I had a full-circle moment when a store I visited on my honeymoon in Japan before I had even launched my brand, placed an order for my pieces,” recalls Emily Antonian Li Mandri, founder of the accessories line MLE. “I remember thinking how beautiful everything was in the store and am honored to now have my designs included.” Take a gander at the MLE collection and it’s of little surprise why La Mandri’s handbags, jewelry, and select apparel resonate as much as they do: They’re refreshingly playful, made of high-quality materials, and still retain a charming DIY, homespun flavor (most everything is made-to-order by a small team of craftspeople, including Li Mandri herself).

The current arsenal includes the likes of brocade clutches made from deadstock fabrics, hair clips of croissants and poodles, silk sleep masks with hearts for eyes, and sterling silver jewelry of eggs (10% of proceeds of the egg pieces, a nod to women’s rights, are donated to Planned Parenthood). Since its launch in 2018 from Li Mandri’s NYC apartment, MLE has been worn by style tastemakers like Emma Chamberlain and Iskra; the Gentlewoman’s Agreement Necklace, which features a handshake clasp, was worn by model Jasmine Sanders on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s 2020 Swimsuit Issue; and MLE has launched collabs with fashion blogger Amy Rolland of @afashionerd and visual artist Amber Vittoria. In addition to the online offerings, MLE is also stocked at Nordstrom, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, and Wolf & Badger, and can be found in over 150 stores globally. “We’ve grown so much that we now have a production space and showroom open to the public by appointment in Saugerties, New York, in the Catskills,” Li Mandri says, of where now lives full-time.

Ahead in this edition of Talking Shop, we catch up with Li Mandri on her brand’s evolution since her move out of the city, why she’s unwavering when it comes to sustainable practices (despite its challenges as a small biz), and her thoughts on why these whimsical, upscale MLE keepsakes have struck such a cord with customers.

Cece Handbag, $128

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I am in love with your sense of humor. Where do you think it comes from?

“My sense of playfulness is a result of being a creative soul and still holding onto the childlike wonder of experiencing the world. I still feel like a kid inside even though I’m an adult!”

Baguette Barette, $24

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Do you have any sort of design or inspiration process?

“I spend a lot of time experimenting and sourcing materials and get inspired by the materials I find. I have many different notebooks and sketch my designs and put together mood boards. I also spend a lot of time with my two rescue poodles, and they are an endless source of inspiration for me.”

Aphrodite Earrings, $128

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I see that most everything is made to order as a means to not overproduce. Is this model particularly challenging as a small business or have you found a way to make it work?

“When I started my brand in 2018, I thought about the impact I would be making by creating these additional objects in the world and the permanent space these objects and their manufacturing byproducts would be occupying. I wanted to create objects that would be cherished for a lifetime. Made-to-order is truly the best way to produce sustainably, as it forces both the consumer as well as the manufacturer to be more mindful of materials and resources. It’s also important from a business standpoint to produce only if there’s demand, to avoid getting stuck with inventory and needing to discount prices to quickly move units.

“Operationally it is very challenging to run our business in the made-to-order model because not only do we make many of our pieces in this way, but many of our products also use deadstock materials, which limits the number of pieces we can actually produce.  As we have grown over the years, we now also have so many different products and we still have a very small team to make the pieces, that it can become overwhelming. We now have systems in place to keep track of the pieces that need to be made, and we organize incoming orders by categories so the orders can be forwarded to the correct departments for production.”

Hazel the Blue Poodle Hair Clip, $24

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You moved from Brooklyn to Saugerties during the pandemic — I wonder if the move upstate has allowed you to evolve as an artist and designer in an unexpected way.

“We bought our house upstate before the pandemic with the idea we would be escaping the city on the weekends. Once the pandemic happened, we decided to relocate upstate full-time. Moving upstate has given me, most importantly, more space, physically and mentally. I have literally more space now to spread out and work on my different projects between my home office and downtown production space and showroom. In Brooklyn my production and order fulfillment took over every surface in my apartment to the point it was starting to get in the way.

“But also, having the stillness of being upstate has given me the chance to focus more on creating and innovating. Before when I lived in the city, I spent a lot of time going out and experiencing all it had to offer, but then I found while I did feel inspired, I would be a bit drained from taking it all in, and it was harder to actually create anything. I now am more accustomed to working with my team members remotely. I am also able to take advantage of being in nature, going on walks and hikes regularly with my dogs, who both came into my life once we decided to move upstate.”

What can fans of MLE expect in the new year ahead?

“We have some major collabs in the works, so get ready!”

Feathered Nodo Mini Clutch in Thermal, $188

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In Refinery29’s Talking Shop series, we’re chatting with owners of up-and-coming small businesses about their experiences launching, the big challenges and wins they’ve faced, and of course, their products and services.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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