How do I dress up a casual top?
Creating a truly versatile wardrobe means thinking outside the box. Instead of buying shirts for every single occasion, think about how to maximize each piece. Plus, there may be circumstances where you need to go from a casual occasion to a dressier one. Here are a few tips for transforming a casual top into something more elevated.
- Tuck it in. There are a few different ways to tuck in a shirt, but all of them feel more formal than leaving the shirt untucked. Not all shirt styles can be tucked in (for example, tunic tops) but a majority of tops look classy tucked into a pair of jeans or a flowy maxi skirt.
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Accessorize. You can take a simple top to the next level with delicate jewelry. Even a plain t-shirt can look polished with the right accessories. Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets can all help to transform a basic top.
Layer. Throw on a cardigan, blazer, or button up shirt.
- Layering has a practical function, but fashion forward gals know that it can help freshen up any top. This is an especially good way to wear an outfit from day to night!
How do I choose the right shirt for an occasion?
Not sure what kind of shirt to wear to a wedding? Work? A date? When selecting a top for an event or special occasion, there are several different elements that determine how formal or casual it is. Assess the following factors to make sure your choice is appropriate
- Material. Materials like lace, satin, and chiffon are very formal, whereas cotton or knit feel more casual. Material can be the deciding factor between two tops, even if they have a similar style or silhouette. For example, a satin cowl neck cami is much more elegant than a ribbed knit cami.
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Neckline. Higher necklines are generally more appropriate for professional or work related events. Collared blouses have long been a staple in the working woman’s wardrobe. Tops with lower necklines can be worn at casual or fun events.
- Silhouette: Figure skimming tops can be so flattering! Keep the skin tight tops for more casual occasions, or balance them out with wide leg pants or a flowy maxi skirt for elegant affairs.
When in doubt, play it safe! It’s always better to be a little overdressed rather than underdressed.
How should my top fit?
Because there are infinite styles of shirts and infinite body types, every shirt will fit a little differently! In order to find the perfect fit, ensure that you can move comfortably. Check to see that you can move your arms and breathe easily. If the top fits pleasantly and you feel great in it, you know you’ve found the one!
How do I know if this top is the one for me?
Have you ever bought something, took it home, and never worn it? When shopping for tops, it’s important to be mindful. Here are a few questions to ask yourself to ensure that you’ll get the most out of a potential purchase.
- Do I have all of the pieces necessary to wear this top (ex pants to match, the right undergarments)? If not, will I make plans to buy them immediately?
- Do I feel confident and happy wearing this top?
- Is it timeless? Can I see myself wearing it six months from now? What about a year or more?
- Do I already own something similar?
- Can I think of at least two occasions I might wear this top?
If you can confidently answer yes to most or all of these questions, congratulations! This top is the one for you.
How do I tuck in my shirt?
There are a few different ways you can tuck in your shirt. Try all of them to mix up your favorite outfits!
- Full tuck: This formal style works best with high waisted pants. The top is completely tucked in, so it’s almost indistinguishable from the pants. This seamless look is great for dressy or professional occasions.
- Loose full tuck: A casual take on the full tuck, the loose full tuck is completely tucked in all the way around. For this style, you'll need a flowy top–a skin tight shirt won’t work. After tucking in the hem, lift your arms above your head or pull the shirt up a little to loosen it.
- Front tuck: This style is probably the most versatile! It works with almost any top that isn’t skin tight. Simply tuck the front of your shirt in, then loosen it a little for a more casual, jaunty effect.
