Top Occasion Guide
The right top depends as much on the occasion as on the style. This hub matches top styles and fabrics to common events so you can dress for the day with ease. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Everyday and work
Work and Office
Smart blouses and shirts in crisp or fluid fabrics.
What works
For work, a blouse in viscose or satin or a crisp cotton shirt reads polished under a blazer or with tailored trousers.
Styling
Tuck into a skirt or trousers and add low heels. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Smart Casual
Fine knits and neat blouses that dress up or down.
What works
A fine knit or a simple blouse strikes a smart-casual note for lunches, meetings and after-work plans.
Styling
Wear with jeans or a midi skirt and boots.
Everyday Casual
Jersey tees and relaxed tops for easy days.
What works
For everyday wear, a cotton tee, vest or relaxed top keeps things comfortable and simple to layer.
Styling
Team with jeans, leggings or shorts. Browse women's t-shirts and vests (/collections/womens-t-shirts-vests).
Holiday and Summer
Light linen, cotton and smocked tops for the heat.
What works
On holiday, linen shirts, cotton camis and smocked tops keep you cool and pack down small.
Styling
Pair with shorts, a skirt or swimwear.
Dressed-up occasions
Evening and Party
Satin, lace and cut-out tops with a going-out feel.
What works
For evening, a satin cami, lace top or cut-out style brings shine and detail for a going-out look.
Styling
Wear with a skirt or smart trousers and heels. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Daytime Occasion
Pretty blouses in florals, frills or soft fabrics.
What works
For races, christenings and garden events, a floral or frilled blouse suits a daytime dress code.
Styling
Finish with a midi skirt or tailored trousers.
Dinner and Date
A flattering fitted or soft draped top.
What works
For dinner or a date, a fitted bodysuit or a soft cowl-neck top balances smart and relaxed.
Styling
Pair with jeans or a skirt and boots or heels.
Layering Piece
Camis and fine tops worn under jackets and knits.
What works
As a layer, a plain cami or fine top sits neatly under blazers, shirts and knits to build an outfit.
Styling
Keep it plain to let the outer layer lead.
Frequently asked questions
What top should I wear to the office?
A blouse in viscose or satin, or a crisp cotton shirt, is the safest office choice. It reads smart and polished under a blazer or with tailored trousers or a pencil skirt. Choose a neckline you are comfortable in and keep colours and prints simple for a professional look.
What kind of top works for an evening out?
For evening, a satin cami, lace top or a top with cut-out or corset detailing brings a going-out feel with shine and shape. Pair it with a skirt or smart trousers and heels, and keep accessories simple so the top leads the look.
What are the best tops for a holiday?
Light, breathable tops like linen shirts, cotton camis and smocked or off-the-shoulder styles are ideal for holidays. They keep you cool, pack down small and layer easily over swimwear or with shorts and skirts from day to evening.