An asymmetrical top with a split hem is a style that’s longer on one side, and split on that side to create two V-shaped points that drape over the hip and thigh. They can be knitted or woven, sleeved or sleeveless, and range from casual to dressy. Lengths vary, but they’re usually tunic length on the longer side. Fits vary from fluid to very oversized. Some silhouettes are structured on the hips and thighs and fluid on the torso, and others are oversized from the bust down. Breezy, comfortable, forgiving and dramatic.The photos below are a good representation of the style.
You probably don’t expect a roomy top with an asymmetrical split hem to be flattering, but it’s definitely worth a try. Almost every time one of my clients tries on this style, she loves it. The asymmetrical hem creates an interesting visual effect straight off the bat, but it’s the split with the points that’s particularly flattering. First, the effect creates symmetry for the eye because the top of the slit is usually level with the length of the hem on the shorter side. And second, the pointy parts of the hem that drape over the hips and thigh magically slim down curves, AND add curves to a straighter leg. Either way you win with your body type.
Asymmetrical hems sans the split can look a little off because your eye can’t create the symmetry. Furthermore, they sometimes create an unflattering cut line across a curvier thigh, especially when the top is high contrast against the bottom.
Wear asymmetrical split tops with skinnies, straight legs, cigarette pants, slim-fit boyfriend jeans, shorts and pencil skirts. They can also be worn with more voluminous styles like slouchy track pants, baggy shorts and flared skirts, but those proportions are a little tricker to pull off. Here’s how to add a little structure to those combinations.
I recently bought the blush sweater with asymmetric hem from Zara, but wear it roomier than it is on the model. I love it with blue and white boyfriend and straight leg jeans. It also creates interesting lines when layered under a short jacket. I chose a style that was fitted on the hips because it’s longer. I also like the oversized cuts, but on my frame they have to be shorter for structure.
Over to you. Would you wear an asymmetrical split hem top?
