Usually, I’d argue you should never tamper with perfection. The button-down shirt is already a wardrobe classic: polished and endlessly chic. I didn’t think it could get any better, at least, not until I saw that M&S had given it a waist-cinching makeover.
Enter the brand's clever drawstring shirt. At first glance, it looks like a classic blue-and-white pinstripe button-down, but if you take a look at the waist, you’ll spot one considered detail. M&S has updated the wardrobe staple with a hidden drawstring that can be pulled in to cinch and flatter the silhouette.
Pure Cotton Striped Drawstring Shirt
In fact, it's so clever, that I can’t believe I don’t already have one in my wardrobe. As someone with a fuller bust, finding a well-fitting shirt can feel like a sartorial nightmare. If it fits at the waist, I’m faced with gaping buttons; if it fits at the chest, the rest of my frame is completely swamped.
M&S’s design thankfully solves all these issues and shape no longer has to be sacrificed. The handy drawstring detail means it can be completely customised, pulled in for a perfect fit at the waist every time. You can’t get more flattering than that.
Not to mention, the added detail makes it look far more expensive than its £28 price tag suggests. All it takes is a quick scroll online to spot M&S’s designer counterparts, take, for example, Hermès, whose drawstring shirt will set you back almost £3,000. (Gorgeous, but I think I’ll stick to Marks.)
As for styling, it’s simple. Just switch it in for your usual button-down. For the office, pair it with polished black trousers and a great pair of loafers. Wear it to dinner styled with a satin midi skirt and ballet flats. You could even dress it down for the weekend with your favourite jeans and sneakerinas. The options are endless.
With this in mind, and the fact that it’s crafted from 100% cotton, it’s guaranteed to become one of the most hardworking pieces in your wardrobe rotation.
