Picks of the week: “going out” tops
Pretty tops that can layer under a jacket or look good worn on their own are wardrobe gold. Today I’m sharing some going out tops for your fall & holiday wardrobe.
There are certain pieces in my wardrobe I refer to as “wardrobe glue.” They help pull an outfit together as supporting players. The best ones can also take on a leading role, and carry the outfit. One of those items is a top or blouse that can slip easily under a jacket, yet look intentional when the jacket comes off. That can be a tall order. In the past, I’ve found tops like this less than plentiful.
So with our upcoming mini-vacation next week, and the holidays just around the corner, I’ve been on the lookout for pretty-but-layerable tops & blouses. I managed to find quite a few (including one for myself…)
A roundup of going out tops
For this edit, I selected tops that could dress up or down, and had a minimum of design details so they’d be easier to layer. This also makes them good contenders for travel wardrobes…
Silk & satin finishes
I’ve been seeing a lot of silk and satin tops this season. This one in silk is simple, elegant, and would look great with jeans or more dressed up trousers or a skirt. The color is in the Winter palette.
This satin shirt is a little less spendy, but no less elegant. This moss green color is perfect for you Autumns, and it’s available in sizes 2-22, also in Petites. There’s also a bright red color which looks online like it could work for you Springs.
Here’s popover v-neck blouse in Plus in “rumpled satin.” It’s available in several colors, but this seafoam color is nice for Springs. (I’ve had a version of this top in my wardrobe for a few years now, and give it two thumbs up.)
This pretty deep blue looks on my monitor to be a close match to Lobelia in the Winter palette. It’s offered in sizes XXS-XXL.
This simple top in light emerald green (Winter palette) has a silky look and feel. Sizes X-Small to XX-Large.
Here’s the one I bought for myself, and absolutely love it! Dark brown is my black alternative, and this going out top goes with just about everything in my closet. I normally avoid puffed sleeves, but because of the more fluid fabric, these aren’t voluminous and slide easily into my jacket without bunching. This top runs on the smallish side of true-to-size; I went with the Small. Also available in Black, Off-white & Leopard print.
Pattern & texture
Pattern or texture add visual interest to simple styles. This clip-dot blouse is available in several colors, sizes XX-Small to XX-Large. This green looks like Winter emerald on my monitor, the lighter “Lush Green” looks like it could be for Springs.
Love the festive star print on this silk shirt! Available in sizes 2-22 and Petites. Winters, this one’s in your palette.
Here’s a more neutral top that I think could work for most Springs and Autumns. The metallic dots really seal the deal. Sizes X-Small to XXL, and Plus.
If your going-out style leans toward the bold, this abstract print shirt is so fun! Sizes X-Small to XX-Large, also in Petite. On my monitor, these reds are in the Winter palette.
Finally, if you prefer your prints on the subtle side, a classic polka dot always works. In Plus & Misses.
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Sue—I didn’t receive this post in my inbox yesterday.. What do I need to do?
Thanks for checking! I published at an odd time yesterday, but the newsletter goes out the same time each day regardless. You should have received it not long after you left this comment.
I am really appreciating when you identify the colour palette that best suits an item. Very helpful.
Have you done much research on winter coats yet? Am seeking a sturdy “old fashioned” wool coat, below-knee to calf length, buttoned rather than tied, and with pockets that can actually be used. Needs to be in a 2X or 3X size depending upon cut and style. The retailers I’ve checked seem to carry puffy coats or skimpy poorly-made cloth coats. So far no luck at thrift and consignment stores. Would pay $500 for a coat that I could wear for the next several years. (Oh, and I’d love if it were navy blue ….)
Hi Eva, if you’re up for shopping in thrift stores (which I love too!) I thought I’d take a quick look at EBay. I saw this one, and thought you might like the length, and fabric. It’s black, but maybe a pretty scarf would help with that. Shopping for a certain item in one particular size can be frustrating for some of us. Good luck!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/284976533687?hash=item4259ecd0b7%3Ag%3AvV8AAOSwWtRjLOlx&amdata=enc%3AAQAHAAAAoFrLtJmg6gEuba3Z0Uzgc2WU9UUKqMRFOJWqVlhk1K1lX5x4TP394yP%2FUQtqzz0lyPvOHg2TvDTopVsCVtKQ5Biyaaor%2FborlYRC1FS%2BZauqEP%2BdhN0Ebe%2BqICw2lBLLd%2Bb11L1wLI1SRnrGaJ4RNCxoqlbjzDEfRVcY4znW6bGAEgYvSnTw4o365b2qxnoKjiQEn3LKJoCEUSTLthzpEd8%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR_DH3c35YA&LH_ItemCondition=3000%7C1500
I’ll take a look. Thanks!
Hi Eva,
Would you consider a custom coat? I finally found a long, warm wool coat in a perfect navy (I’m a Spring) in a classic style from Lorne coats in Toronto for about that amount CAD.
https://lornescoats.com/
But you must specify the Italian lambswool fabric that only came in black or navy. (This was precovid- not sure about supply issues). But don’t choose the cashmere blend- I find this fabric wore out quickly for me . The wool coat is warm enough for winter, classic, and get many complements on the colour. I ordered a second coat in black, car length. But the navy is still my favourite! Good luck with your hunt!
I’ve never had a custom piece. Thank you for giving me an entirely new avenue to investigate.
Pendleton tends to have nice wool coats in a variety of lengths.
A retailer I haven’t yet checked. I’ll take a look. Thank you.
I so appreciate you pointing out the color palette of items. I’m on the lookout for the Summer pallette. Thanks!
I’m seeing some Summer colors in sweaters, far fewer in blouses. Most are cotton or more casual. But I’m keeping my eyes open for more options.
The brown blouse is delicious. You want to eat it haha.
Greetje
Thank you for pointing out the color palette, it really helps. I love that top from Boden.
Such gorgeous tops. The first one in the cherry coloured silk would be my pick.
Susan, have you made the recent video with Manina, Red Leopard, available to view on your blog? I haven’t seen it posted.
Would you consider doing a post on Blue Springs vs Winters? Thanks, Susan!
Hi Elizabeth, thanks! Red Leopard has been releasing excerpts from the video on their Instagram feed…you can see one of them here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjV4sIGIJXH/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Some great selections. I always struggle with suitable jackets to put on top that aren’t too ‘business’. Any thoughts?
Love, love my winter palette and so appreciate you giving us options as well. The emerald green blouse is gorgeous!
I love blouses like this and wear them untucked with denim, but struggle styling them for a dressier look. Tucked in with tailored trousers doesn’t feel modern, but maybe I’m missing some nuances. I can’t do a half tuck – no one wears that around here and I would feel ridiculous. 🙂 Ideas?
I, too, enjoy your suggestions for color palettes, but would like ideas for summers as well.
What I’m mostly seeing in Summer colors now are sweaters, but am keeping my eyes open for blouses and tops.