There are an increasing number of patterned and textured tops across all price points at retail that have been finished with solid backs. In other words, the fronts and sleeves are gorgeously detailed with a textured fabric or pattern, but the back looks as if it was an afterthought. It’s the opposite of when designers go the extra mile to secure back garment detailing that gives the top interest and oomph.
Here are two examples of what I mean. My love for lace made me click on the first top, which I thought was gorgeous until I saw the solid back void of lace. I sighed and thought how the effect cheapened the look of the garment, as if the manufacturer ran out of the lace fabrication to finish the order. It’s highly unlikely that’s the case, but nevertheless this type of solid back is a deal breaker for me.
I DO wear tops that have a patterned front but are finished with both solid back and sleeves. My silk front pullover from L.K.Bennett is an example of just that. Somehow, that combination looks more intentional to my eye.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with tops that have solid backs because it can be seen as a design feature in itself. Some may even prefer it to a completely patterned top. This is simply my own quirk about the aesthetic of the garment.
Over to you. Do solid backs on patterned and textured tops bother you too?
