I have something similar, but with long sleeves, a somewhat lower neckline and less pleating and it actually seems to work on me.
I only wear the top with more structured (heavier fabric) bottoms though, like jeans (and it helps that mine is the perfect length to go with trousers). Together they do hide some bits and bumps and it has a slightly slimming effect.

Maybe Angie can explain why? Maybe it has something to do with one's body shape/height?

Maybe, it's a boob issue for me then. Everything is boob issue for me.

I like the look and effect of a banded shirt that allows the fabric to blouse over the band so the banded part is hidden (does that make any sense?). Otherwise, it depends on the person and where the band hits them. Clearly it's not ideal for the band to cut across the hips on a pretty pear. I guess I'd have to see them on a human being to make an accurate judgment.

Thumbs up for this look. Got to run. My doggies are begging for their walk - tell you why this can work later.

I'm very curious to know what type of bodies can pull it off. It's one of those tops that I run away as soon as I see it because it makes me top heavy and 20 lbs fatter.

I always feel like an old lady in these tops.

I think when you have a large chest the top tends to tent out and then fall in an awkward straight diagonal line from the biggest part of your boob to your hip. On me that's what happens, and it ends up looking like a ski slope. :( Maybe if it were belted? I've never tried that.

They have never really worked on me. I have two tops with the bands that are actually normal fitted tops, and I always tuck the band under because I dislike when it shows.

Sometimes this works for me, sometimes not. I think my olive Bluefly sleeveless wrap top thing has a band on bottom, and it's not super baggy, but still a little loose. Good to cover up my little tummy. :)

I'm back. You are all right. Banded tops come in all shapes and sizes, so you need to choose one that works best for your body type.

They can be short or tunic length. Tunic lengths and shorter lengths work well on fairly straight and slim body types. They also work well on apple shapes with a little extra in the mid-section. I’ve had plus size gals sport this look well too. The band has got to hit you in the right place and the volume has got to be just right. It’s a hard one to perfect but a great comfy little look once you’ve got it right.

Sounds like Inge and Ana have found great banded top options.

Hmm...I'll have to try one of these tops sometime and see. I am straight and slim, but I don't tend to like blousy tops very much because they make me feel (and look) like I don't have a bust. :-P

OK, I tried to find some examples on actual people to get a visual.

Here's a longer tunic top:

http://www.target.com/Juniors-.....B001D4X9KA

And two shorter length tops:

http://www.shirtsnob.com/archives/019123.php
http://www.tobi.com/product/87.....d-top-tops

I really love them on the models, but I just can't imagine anyone with even the slightest hint of curve to their hips (i.e. all non-models) pulling these off. Maybe I'm missing something, but I can't imagine these flattering at any length.

Hmm I am with Nicole on this - I never liked them and I think the shorter ones make even the models look a little top-heavy (relatively of course). The long one looks great, I think it would work better on a curvier person.

I actually love these tops. I am an inverted triangle, and they work very well for me since my hips are slim. Try a v-neck like this:

http://www.bluefly.com/Leo---S.....detail.fly

I think some of the ladies here have this L&S top.

Maybe because the band is gathered and scrunched, but I don't see that L&S top as banded.

Those of you who wear banded tops, can you post some photos, please??

I see a lot of different sized and shaped women who wear these tops and look great. So I know it can be done and look WOW.

I like the look and think it would comfortable. So I look forward to learning more about them.

Aside from that, I don't have anything constructive to add.