If you follow me on Instagram then it’s likely you already know how much I adore the French brand Sézane. I own dozens of things from them, ranging from wardrobe essentials and bags to shoes and the occasional accessory. Without a doubt, the Sézane Max Shirt is one of my most worn Sézane pieces, if not one of the most worn items in my entire wardrobe.
I’m always on the hunt for high-quality wardrobe staples, and a button down shirt is a classic closet staple that makes even the simplest outfit feel polished, striking that perfect balance between relaxed and refined. I’ve tried a handful of button down shirts over the years, and the Max Shirt may in fact be one of the best button downs I have ever owned.
Read on for my full Sézane Max Shirt review, including sizing recommendations, styling ideas, and whether it’s truly worth it.
Sézane Max Shirt Review
As mentioned above, the Max Shirt from Sézane is one of my most worn items. It’s also one of the brand’s best-selling pieces, likely due to its effortless oversized fit, variety of colors, and versatility. (It’s also why I often feature it in my capsule wardrobes and packing guides.)
TL;DR: the Sézane Max Shirt is worth it for its quality, versatility, and effortless oversized fit, but sizing and styling preferences will depend on how you like your shirts to fit.
Not all oversized shirts are created equal. Here’s why the Max Shirt is a standout for me.
Sézane Max Shirt Fit and Sizing
Does the Sézane Max Shirt Run True to Size?
The Sézane Max Shirt is an oversized button down shirt that is meant to feel effortless, rather than a traditional fitted office shirt. Depending on your personal style, you can order your true size or size up in this shirt.
I own a few Max Shirts that vary between a US size 4 and 6 (EU size 36 and 38). Some days I want to wear a looser style, and some days I want something that’s still oversized, but a little more polished. However, I do find that in the past year, I’ve reached for the US size 6 more often than the size 4.
I find that the Max Shirt runs true to size, but if you want a roomier fit or you have a larger chest, then I recommend going up from your usual size. Alternatively, if you prefer a more tailored look or you’re petite, consider taking your normal size or try the Sézane Tomboy Shirt (more on that later).
Although the Max Shirt is oversized, it doesn’t feel sloppy. Dropped shoulder seams, a single flat chest pocket, and a rounded hemline are subtle, yet intentional details. I particularly love the rounded hemline and believe that it elevates the look of the shirt when wearing it untucked (my favorite way to wear this shirt).
Materials, Fabric, and Colors
Sézane always stocks neutral colors, but they also make seasonal versions in a variety of colors and materials that often include linen, flannel, and broderie anglaise/eyelet.
My most worn Max Shirt is easily the casual white, made from 100% organic cotton. I also own this shirt in light denim and a linen blend blue striped version.
The casual white material feels sturdy and substantial. It’s thick but not too heavy, structured but not fussy, and most importantly, it is not see-through. This is a shirt that I wear year-round. This exact shirt has mother of pearl buttons, but depending on the print or color you choose, the buttons may vary. My light denim Max Shirt, for example, has mother of pearl snaps instead.
Overall, I find that specifically, the casual white Max Shirt is sturdier than other white shirts I’ve owned. I’m a sucker for a button down shirt, and I personally prefer the fit and material over this similarly priced J. Crew shirt. The only other brand I’d recommend for a great oversized button down shirt is With Nothing Underneath. However, unlike Sézane, they do not offer free returns.
Sézane
Max Shirt in Casual White
An easy, effortless wardrobe staple in a structured yet comfortable fabric that works year-round.
Does The Sézane Max Shirt Wrinkle Easily?
I don’t think that the Max Shirt wrinkles more or less than any other oxford or linen button down shirt. Yes, you will incur a few wrinkles with real life wear, but as a rule of thumb I always run a garment steamer over my clothing in the morning for a more polished appearance.
How to Style the Sézane Max Shirt: Outfit Ideas
One of the reasons I reach for the Sézane Max Shirt so often is how easy it is to style. Its slightly oversized silhouette makes it incredibly versatile. You can wear it casually, dress it up, or layer it depending on the season.
Here are a few of the ways I wear it most:
Shop this outfit here.
Effortless Everyday Look (My Go-To)
This is how I wear the Max Shirt most often. I leave it slightly unbuttoned at the top and bottom, and wear it fully untucked with a pair of straight-leg jeans or trousers, and simple flats or sneakers. The rounded hemline really shines here and gives that effortless, slightly undone feel that still looks polished.
Elevated Casual with Jeans
For a slightly more put-together version of the above, I’ll do a half-tuck into jeans and add a belt and a necklace or a structured bag like the Sézane Milo leather bag. It’s still easy, but feels a bit more intentional.
Polished Look with a Blazer
When I want something more refined, I’ll fully tuck the shirt into trousers or jeans and layer a blazer over it. This is where I usually reach for the Tomboy Shirt, but the Max Shirt still works if you want a slightly more relaxed take on a polished outfit.
Layered Transitional Outfit
You can also use the Max Shirt as a layering piece. When it’s warm, wear it open over a tank top or with some cotton trousers and sandals or leather flip flops. During cooler months, layer it under a sweater or jacket with the collar and hem peeking out for added dimension. I also love to wear it with a sweater thrown over my shoulders.
Effortless Weekend Styling
For weekends, keep it simple. Lean into the ease of the oversized fit and pair the Max Shirt with slouchy, relaxed denim and sneakers.
With a Poplin Skirt
I love the cool girl vibe of wearing the Max Shirt unbuttoned a bit at the top and bottom with an A-line cotton poplin skirt and some flat sandals. Very city girl on-the-go.
Sézane Max Shirt vs. Tomboy Shirt
One of Sézane’s other best-selling button down shirts is the Tomboy Shirt. While the Max Shirt and Tomboy Shirt may seem similar at first glance, they each offer a slightly different look and feel depending on how you like to style your outfits.
Key Differences in Fit and Style
The Max Shirt is designed with a more oversized, relaxed silhouette. It has a slightly longer length and a looser drape, making it ideal for an effortless, undone look, especially when worn untucked or half-tucked.
The Tomboy Shirt, on the other hand, feels a bit more structured and tailored. While still relaxed, it has a closer fit through the body and through the arms, which makes it a great option if you prefer something tucked in and more polished.
Which One Is Better?
Neither is necessarily better; it really comes down to how you plan to wear it. I own both shirts, but reach for the Max Shirt more often simply because I gravitate toward easy, everyday outfits. I love it for that effortless, slightly oversized look, especially worn untucked with jeans or layered casually.
When I want something a bit more refined, I’ll reach for the Tomboy Shirt. This shirt looks better tucked in since it’s not as boxy, and works especially well styled under a blazer or with more tailored pieces.
If I had to choose, the Max Shirt is my personal favorite for everyday wear, but having both gives you the flexibility to dress things up or down depending on the occasion.
If you are petite, you may prefer the Tomboy Shirt over the Max Shirt since it’s less boxy and has less fabric.
Pros and Cons of the Sézane Max Shirt
Pros
- Timeless and versatile
- Effortless oversized fit
- High-quality cotton that holds its shape
- Easy to style year-round
- Looks especially polished worn untucked
H3: Cons
- Oversized fit won’t suit everyone
- Requires some steaming or ironing
- Higher price point than fast fashion alternatives
- Less ideal for fully tucked-in outfits
Is the Sézane Max Shirt Worth It? My Overall Impressions
After wearing the Sézane Max Shirt on repeat for a few years now, I can confidently say it’s one of the most worthwhile pieces in my wardrobe (along with my trench coat!). Between the quality, versatility, and timeless design, it’s a staple that consistently earns its place in my everyday outfits.
The oversized fit gives it that easy, French-inspired feel, while the crisp cotton fabric keeps it looking put-together, even when styled casually. This is the kind of piece you can throw on with jeans and flats, yet instantly feel elevated.
Of course, it’s not without a few considerations. The oversized silhouette won’t be for everyone, especially if you prefer a more tailored fit, and like most cotton button-downs, it does require a bit of steaming or ironing to keep it looking its best. The price point is also higher than your average shirt ($125), but in my experience, the cost-per-wear more than justifies it. Plus, I have found that with less expensive white button down shirts, I’ve needed to replace them. I have yet to need to replace my Max Shirt. If anything, I’ve purchased a second white Max Shirt since I wore mine so often.
If you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile wardrobe staple you’ll reach for again and again, the Sézane Max Shirt is worth it. It’s become one of my most worn pieces for a reason, and a style I continue to recommend if you’re building a timeless, effortless wardrobe.
Where to Buy the Sézane Max Shirt
Sézane sells directly through their owned retail locations or on their website.
You can shop the Sézane Max Shirt directly on Sézane’s website. Here, you’ll find the full range of colors and sizes.
Limited edition pieces and seasonal drops sell out quickly, so if something you want isn’t available you can set a restock notification. Luckily, the Max Shirt is a best-seller, and the basic neutrals are rarely out of stock.
Sézane offers free shipping over $200 to the US and returns are always free. This is extremely helpful if you’d like to try the Max Shirt in different sizes or compare it with the Tomboy Shirt, you can do so with peace of mind.
Other Sézane Wardrobe Essentials
If you love the Sezane Max Shirt, here are a few other best-selling pieces from Sézane:
- The Clyde Trench Coat (a timeless layering piece I see all over Paris every time I visit)
- The Gaspard Cardigan (Sézane makes great knitwear and every fall and winter I grab a few styles)
- The Betty Cardigan (somewhat resembles a lady jacket, but with the wearable ease of a sweater)
- The leather bags that elevate even the simplest looks, such as the Milo bag and the Claude bag
- The Livie Belt (not too wide or thin, and a perfect outfit finisher)
Looking for more Sézane reviews? Read my Milo bag review and my general Sézane sizing recommendation guide.
