Swap classic button-down shirts for this elegant alternative – these 6 high-street versions are selling fast
This trending shirt style will give your wardrobe the chicest new-season update
There's a new shirt style that's giving the classic button-down some serious competition – the frog fastening. Defined by its ornamental knitted loop and toggles, they have taken over the high street. Noticeably, Zara's linen version has become something of a cult buy after selling out (it has since been restocked).
This distinctive fastening has a long history, originating from traditional Chinese clothing, where fabric loops and decorative knots were commonplace, and later became a core part of military clothing in Europe. More recently, it was used in military-inspired clothing in the early Noughties, returning in 2026 on shirts and utility-style jackets, and now it's being reworked into elegant blouses and shirts, offering a trendy alternative to classic button-downs.
And it's easy to see why it's so appealing. There's something inherently elegant about this detail, adding texture and depth to simple shirt silhouettes. If you want to elevate your autumn outfit ideas, this is an easy update, especially for jeans and a shirt. And they can be styled as simply as classic button-fronts; just add ballet flats and your favourite denim jeans, and you're good to go.
A white linen-blend shirt is one of those wardrobe pieces that you'll get plenty of wear out of. The loose silhouette gives it an effortlessly chic feel, whilst the frog fastenings make it even more polished.
This olive green shirt is made from a linen blend and offers an elegant take on this autumn/winter fashion trend 2026. It has a round neck, a relaxed shape that's made for wearing loose, and the shade will go so well with denim blue.
Offering a luxurious take on this trend, this silky shirt features smart knot fastenings that add dimension to its design. Perfect for when you want to look put-together, this style would look excellent with sharp, tailored trousers and kitten heels.
The classic white shirt gets a refined update with this elegant design. The long sleeves and button cuffs feel smart, whilst the fastenings make it feel more elevated than an everyday shirt.
With its rich blue shade and linen fabric, this wrap blouse could be mistaken for denim. The wrap silhouette adds to its charm, and the deep blue shade would look so chic as part of a white jeans outfit or with the matching linen barrel-leg trousers.
This pastel pink design will brighten up your cool-weather wardrobe perfectly. Tuck into brown tailored trousers and pair with pointed flats for a polished look, or dark denim and ballet flats for a relaxed outing.
There are many ways to wear frog-fastened shirts. Like classic shirts, they work well with straight trousers and boots or loafers for a smart-casual outfit. For a more put-together look, try wearing this style of shirt tucked into tailored trousers and add a leather belt. When the temperatures drop, you could layer it under a wool blazer or a cardigan, allowing the fastening to peek through for maximum impact.
