Big, bold and billowing statement shirts and blouses that take us back to the ‘80s and ’90s are on-trend. Think mullet shirts and blouses, tunic shirts with dramatic puffed and smocked sleeves, architectural shirts, tiered tunic blouses, long wrap shirts, front frill point shirts, flouncy pirate shirts, poet shirts, and busloads of asymmetrical hemlines.
Some of the fabrics are stiff and architectural, and others are soft and draping. Most have structured collars. Lengths vary from thigh to knee-length. Silhouettes are voluminous, boxy and very waist-surrendering. Some styes incorporate a little waist definition, or hint at a waistline with a peplum. The trend seems to favour quiet neutrals and patterns, perhaps because the silhouette is quite the commitment already. The collection below showcases some examples of the vibe.
The good news is that these types of shirts and blouses are worn UNTUCKED, which means maximal comfort for most. Their roomy fit means that you can hide the contour of your body in the silhouette if that’s your preference, or something you want to do from time to time. The style is breezy, so good in mild weather. The visual effect is arty, dramatic, architectural, and elegantly relaxed.
The bad news is that this type of shirt or blouse hides your natural shape. For those who prefer to showcase their figure, this is not for you. You can feel overwhelmed and unattractive in the silhouette, and like you’re wearing someone else’s clothes.
I’m a big YAY. Despite my sartorial preferences for tailoring and fluid structure, I enjoy wearing a dramatically voluminous shirt and blouse from time to time. As long as there is a collar I can pop for shoulder-neck point structure, the sleeves are relatively tailored, and the hemline is asymmetrical, my small frame does not feel overwhelmed in the billowing silhouette. In fact, it’s a fun, playful and very comfortable top to wear.
I have three big shirts, and love them. Here are the exact items from my wardrobe.
Over to you. What do you think of the big shirt and blouse trend?
