Women's Top Buying Guide
Buying the right top comes down to matching style, neckline, fabric and fit to your body and the occasion. This hub pulls the whole centre together into practical buying advice. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Choosing the style
Choose by Occasion
Let the event set the style and fabric.
How to decide
Jersey tees suit casual days, blouses and shirts suit work, and satin or lace tops suit evenings and occasions.
Quick tip
Buy the style the occasion needs, not just the one you like most. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Choose the Neckline
Pick a neckline that flatters and suits the day.
How to decide
A V-neck lengthens and flatters, a crew keeps things casual, and a cowl or sweetheart adds a dressier feel.
Quick tip
Match the neckline to any necklace or layers you wear.
Choose the Sleeve
Match sleeve length to weather and formality.
How to decide
Short and cap sleeves suit warmth and casual wear; long, puff and bishop sleeves add coverage and dressiness.
Quick tip
Statement sleeves make a plain top feel special.
Getting the fit and fabric right
Choose the Fabric
Balance comfort, drape, warmth and care.
How to decide
Cotton and jersey are easy and casual, viscose and satin drape for dressier tops, and linen keeps you cool but creases.
Quick tip
Check the care label if easy washing matters. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Get the Fit Right
Fit the bust and shoulders, then judge length.
How to decide
Buy for a comfortable fit across the bust and shoulders; a top that pulls there will never sit right, however good the length.
Quick tip
Raise your arms to check it does not ride up.
Choose the Length
Match the hem to your bottoms and proportions.
How to decide
Cropped and regular lengths suit high waists and tucking, while longline tops cover the hip over leggings and slim bottoms.
Quick tip
Think about what you will wear it with first.
Check for Transparency
Hold light fabrics up to the light before buying.
How to decide
Fine cotton, chiffon and lace can be see-through; check whether a top is lined or needs a cami underneath.
Quick tip
A built-in lining saves buying extra layers.
Build a Top Capsule
A few core tops cover most of your outfits.
How to decide
A plain tee, a smart blouse, a fine knit and one going-out top cover casual, work and evening wear.
Quick tip
Add colour and print around neutral core tops.
Frequently asked questions
What tops should every wardrobe have?
A few core tops cover most needs: a plain cotton t-shirt for casual days, a smart blouse or shirt for work, a fine knit for smart-casual layering, and one dressier top such as a satin cami for evenings. Build colour and print around these neutral staples.
How should a top fit?
A top should fit comfortably across the bust and shoulders without pulling or gaping, as that is the hardest area to alter. Raise your arms to check it does not ride up, then judge the length against the bottoms you plan to wear it with.
How do I stop a fine top being see-through?
Hold light fabrics like fine cotton, chiffon and lace up to the light before buying to check how sheer they are. Many tops come with a built-in lining or cami; if not, plan to wear a plain camisole or seamless top underneath for coverage.