Sharyn GreensteinMany of us have a signature style that helps us feel more confident and makes getting dressed so much easier. For me, my “style uniform” is a flowy top with a favorite pair of denim. Relaxed fit tops are so easy to style and wear, especially for us women over 50. When I am feeling my best and most fit, I will do a half tuck into a pair of belted high waisted jeans to show off my waistline. Most of the time, however, I leave my top loose and flowy, allowing for a relaxed silhouette that is chic and carefree.
Finding elevated casual tops that aren’t clingy but also aren’t super-oversized is not easy. I have included several in this article, including my go-to favorites by Rag & Bone and Banana Republic. All are ideal for daytime wear but can also be dressed up a bit with jewelry or a scarf. As we start to emerge from our COVID bubbles and have places to go, we may be looking for a fresh new blouse to go out in. I have included several styles from Bloomingdales as they are having a “buy more, save more” sale through 3/14. Happy browsing.
Casual Tops
In 100% cotton, this easy-to-style top comes in 3 colors at Anthropologie. Love it with a bandana.
With contrasting embroidery, this top with blouson sleeves from Karen Kane will look fabulous with faded denim now and white denim come summer. At Bloomingdales.
I own this Rag & Bone top in several colors and I wear them constantly. Not too clingy but not too oversized, also not too long for petites. Fabulous, soft fabric that launders perfectly. Expensive but well worth it. At Bloomingdales. Available in white, black and navy too.
In Banana Republic’s popular Luxespun fabric (I own several from the collection) this flattering v-neck is comfy for at home wear, but can also be dressed up a bit. In several colors and on sale right now.
Available in several colors, some in petite and plus, this highly rated laidback top features ruffled trim for a dash of polish and poise. Looks great tucked in or out. From Anthropologie.
From Rag & Bone, a brand known for effortless style. I own this tee in stripe and solid. Love them both. Very flattering. Not your average tee and worth the money.
From Banana Republic, this relaxed fit balloon sleeve top is made of tencel fabric. On sale now.
Dressier Tops
Available in standard, petite and plus, this beautiful embroidered top has flutter sleeves and smocked details. At Anthropologie.
I can never have enough slenderizing black tops in my closet. Anything but boring, this black studded top from Karen Kane is a bit edgy and will pair well with denim. 40% off right now at Bloomingdales.
With three quarter flutter sleeves and a pretty shade of pink, this Vince Camuto top just says “spring.” At Bloomingdales.
From NYDJ, this flowy sleeveless top is neutral enough to match lots of bottoms in your wardrobe. Great worn with a cardigan. At Bloomingdales and 40% off right now. Other prints available.
From Anthropologie, this button front top has sequined embellishment and will look great tucked in or worn out.
This small-scale print blouse from NYDJ has bracelet sleeves, ideal for jewelry. Love it with white denim. 40% off at Bloomingdales.
From Eilleen Fisher, this beautiful silk blouse looks effortless and chic. At Bloomingdales.