It’s an avocado shirt! One of my closet staples is a button-down shirt, and I wanted a simple way to give it personality. There aren’t many ways to change up a classic button-down—so why not avocado buttons? At first I considered egg-shaped buttons, but they felt like too much with the scarf, so avocados won out.
If your shirt already has brown buttons, all you need is paint. If not, pick up inexpensive brown buttons in the same size as the originals and you’re ready to go. This small change adds a playful, subtle touch to a basic wardrobe essential.
DIY Avocado Buttons
Total Time: 1 Hour
Supplies
Button-down shirt (choose one with brown buttons, or remove and replace)
Green fabric paint
Green colored pencil (optional, for sketching avocado outlines)
Small paint brush
Brown buttons (same size as your shirt’s buttons) plus needle, thread, and pins
Small scissors or seam ripper
Directions
1. Outline the avocado shape around each button hole if you prefer a guide. I used a colored pencil to draw an avocado shape with the larger “bottom” half centered on the button hole. You can angle the shape slightly or keep it vertical—either looks great.
2. For dimension, use two shades of green. Start with a slightly darker green to fill the avocado shape. While that layer is still wet, add a lighter green in the center to mimic the natural color variation of an avocado. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling.
3. If you’re replacing buttons, remove the originals carefully with small scissors or a seam ripper and mark each spot with a pin. Hand-stitch the new brown buttons in the same locations. I stitched some buttons upside down so they resembled avocado pits better. Leaving a pin in while stitching creates a little space so the button sits properly when fastened.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Have other fun button ideas? Flowers, fruit, or tiny motifs would all be adorable. I’m planning to try egg buttons someday too—just didn’t want to go overboard this time.
If you’re making accessories to match, now’s the perfect moment to pair this shirt with a playful clutch or pin. Little personalized details like these make simple pieces feel fresh and intentional.
Can’t wait to share more DIYs and styling ideas—stay tuned for the next project!
p.s. An avocado piñata makes a great companion craft for avocado-themed outfits and parties.