Confession: I'm scared of blouses - YouLookFab Forum

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Confession: I'm scared of blouses

Kristine

Veteran

I don't really own any, even the one or two I sometimes call blouses aren't really blouses. I usually tuck a cami or tank top under a cardigan or pullover. I have one button down, but rarely wear it.

I'd like to add more polish to my look, but when I look for blouses, I see a lot of shiny fabric, bows or embellishments. That's not really my style or at least I'm not comfortable with it yet. Any suggestions (either specific blouses or advice) for the blouse-phobic?

Body Type

16 replies

Latest reply was from Vani

Louise

Veteran

I don't wear them very often either in fact i only have 1, a pussy bow blouse. Have you tried shirts or am i getting confused and that's what you mean? I tend to think of blouses as being thinner than shirts mine is sheer x

MNsara

Veteran

I'm really looking forward to everyone's input here, as I own two white shirts just because they are on every list of must-haves and I have NEVER worn either one! I guess I'm scared too.

Beth

Veteran

I'm afraid of them, too. I don't really know how to wear them well, as they seem to be tucked more often than not, and tucking just doesn't work on my apple midsection.

Carole

Veteran

I have a few blouses, and for me they wear better under a structured jacket. Somehow they are uncomfortable under cardigans and feel all bunched up. I have had success with sweater vest's however, and really like that look! Hope that helps!

medusa

Veteran

Kristine, can you say more what you mean by blouses? Do you consider your button-down a blouse - are we basically talking about any woven shirt here?

I used to almost never wear woven shirts because I felt uncomfortable in them. They're definitely not as soft and forgiving as knit tops. The key to solving this problem (for me) was finding woven tops that fit really well, so I don't feel constrained. The other thing that helped was 'easing into it' by wearing a button down unbuttoned over a camisole or turtleneck, so I got some of that woven-type dressiness while still being pretty casual.

I would suggest you start by getting more comfortable with what you have - could you post a couple photos of how you wear your button down to get feedback? That might really help.

I think my body type is somewhat similar to yours and I have had luck with woven tops from Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, and Talbots. Perhaps some of those would work for you. Here are a few options from Talbots that aren't super frilly or girly:
http://www1.talbots.com/online.....e=cat70008
http://www1.talbots.com/online.....e=cat70008
http://www1.talbots.com/online.....e=cat70008
http://www1.talbots.com/online.....e=cat70008

Kristine

Veteran

Thanks for the comments!

I guess defining blouse is a little difficult now that you mention it. I think of a standard button down oxford as a shirt, but in a nicer fabric it could be a blouse. In my mind a blouse is a dressy top with details that make it special, often a sheer or silky material (but not necessarily).

I'm trying to find tops I can wear to work with dark jeans or slim trousers and feel polished and dressy. I don't mind button downs, but I'd like to branch out and try a blouse. So I'm looking for something special, maybe an interesting pattern or silky fabric, but not too fussy.

Sometimes I look through pages and pages of items and can't see myself ever wearing a single one. Yet I realize my own look can be pretty boring. So maybe I can find a happy medium.

Medusa, thanks for those links. I really like the patch pocket shirt, what a beautiful fabric! I might have to order that one!

Maya

Veteran

I think woven blouses are tough for a lot of people--if they fit in one spot, they won't fit in another. There are often fussy details that limit their versatility or flattery. Not to mention the maintenance. Ugh. I will do ANYTHING to avoid ironing. Unless you're perfectly proportioned (or rather, proportioned exactly like the garment in question), it's tough to find the right fit.

What about a plain silk shell that can be worn on its own and jazzed up with jewelry, or layered under cardigans or jackets?

Anonymous

Medusa has some great advice. You could start with a fitted shirt with some stretch for comfort and, if possible, easy care fabric that won't need ironing. Try wearing it untucked with pants and with a cami under it as Medusa says. It can be belted, worn with various types and lengths of scarves, all kinds and lengths of jackets...there's no end. If you want something slimming, try a black shirt with jeans. You might also feel most comfortable in a denim shirt.
If you want to experiment without spending much, woven shirts in great condition are abundant at thrift stores and resale shops. Look for perfect fit and good brands. As you find ways that you like wearing the shirt, you can look for them in lux fabrics or with details like tuxedo tucks or a bit of ruffle that make them more blouse-like. There have been some great examples of members wearing shirts on the forum. AJ had a couple of killer outfits and I think Bella posted a link on that thread to a lot of ways to wear an oxford shirt that will give you inspiration.

Edit: I started this earlier and just saw your later post. Like Maya, I don't want the upkeep of a frilly blouse. The patch pocket shirt looks like a winner. I've also had luck with shirt style tops made of that permanently pleated, very slightly sheer fabric. I like how they hug the body and create a shape without clinging and how they can be hand washed and hung to dry with no wrinkles. I have a white and a print, both from Marshalls/TJMax.

Kristine

Veteran

Thanks for the comments and ideas! I guess I'm not alone. I'll experiment with my button down and post a few pics later for your input.

Maya, I love the idea of a silk shell. Maybe mustard yellow or subtle copper to coordinate with some of the blue tops I have.

Joy, it's funny you mention the crinkly shirts. I forgot I have one of those too. I haven't worn it in a while. I'll have to mix that up also and see if I can find ways to wear it.

I feel a little more optimistic about my blouse options, thanks everyone!

shiny

Veteran

I used to be scared of blouses too, and now I can't get enough. Reasons:

- They add a certain level of polish you can't get with camis and knits
- They last longer than knits - don't pill or fade
- Patterned tops automatically add interest, and also work well at camouflaging trouble zones (fool the eye)
- The right embellishments can add interest and be fun with layering
- Shine is good!!! Adds texture!! It may seem overwhelming on its own, but add a layer and it'll tone it down.
- I find the fit (especially with shells or styles that pull over the head) is easier than with button-downs, for those of us with a chest

As for maintenance, I agree that if you are MOTG with young children, they're not the best, since you can't toss in the washing machine and they stain easier. But my kids are teens so that's not an issue for me. I just toss them in a Dry-El load.

My tips:

- Go for sleeveless, as they are the most versatile, and can be worn in the summer. You also won't have to deal with pit stain issues.
- Make sure the top fits in the shoulders - this is key
- Pay attention to the necklines, and choose one that is 1) flattering and 2) will work with the style of cardi you wear the most.
- For white blouses, wear a bright white cami underneath (tip from Angie!)
- If you have a chest, try the kind that pull over your head - no buttons in the front. Easier to fit.
- Don't worry if the blouse seems too billowy, or voluminous, or waistless... once you pop a layer over it, you'll get some structure back.

In regards to necklines, because I have a short neck, I gravitate towards scoop neck blouses. These also work well with v-neck cardis, which I prefer. But I also wear slightly higher necklines (shell style) too, which work great under blazers. A bit of embellishment such as a ruffle or bow at the neckline looks amazing sticking out of a v-neck cardi. It helps to wear your favorite cardigan when you shop - and pop the cardigan over the blouse in the dressing room.

So if I was blouse shopping online today, I'd say yes to this:
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/.....pid=724000

But no to this... because of the cap sleeves and the neckline looks like it will lay sloppily under a layer:
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/.....=724245012

Yes to this - would look amazing under a v-neck cardi:
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/.....=719794002
... imagine they gray one with white clamdiggers in the summer!

This one's got potential - imagine it with a cropped cheeky white denim jacket, and leggings:
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/.....pid=719788

This is a safe, easy way to transition from camis to blouses:
http://bananarepublic.gap.com/.....=719686002
I may have to go try this one on myself... it has subtle embellishments, not too much.

Okay, yes, this is shiny. Yes, it has ruffles. But pop a cardigan over it (try a long BF cardi), you'll tone it down...
ttp://www.anntaylor.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=23074&N=1200005&pCategoryId=3939&categoryId=183&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_183&loc=TN&defaultColor=Ceramic Teal&defaultSizeType=Regular

Not sure about the sleeves on this one, but georgette is my new favorite:
http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

Here's a simple shell with interesting neckline that would look great under a cardi:
http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

Oh my! I'm in love with this one:
http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

Ann Taylor has a lot more... I see a lot with asymmetrical embellishments. I'd steer clear of those. They are hard to layer!

I need to go shopping now.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Bless you, Shiny. I was going to write the reasons why blouses rock and you did it for me. Thank you :0)

Did you notice that today's post was inspired by your comment?

Kristine

Veteran

Shiny, thank you so much! Those are some wonderful tips and some gorgeous blouses. I especially love the chiffon trim tank in black. It's so simple, but so pretty. I have a drawer full of cotton tanks and I need some sheen!

shiny

Veteran

Angie, yes I did! I laughed out loud! I haven't been able to participate as much as usual, things have been busy around here, but I still lurk every day and post when I get a chance.

Kristine - I wrote that without knowing what you look like. Now that I've seen your photo, I would like to add that your figure is ideal for high-neckline styles that I would absolutely love to wear, but can't, because my neck is too short... if I had your figure, I'd try:

http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

and especially...
http://www.anntaylor.com/catal.....pe=Regular

Beth

Veteran

Great post Shiny, and fab links. I love those tops...might be time to take another look:)

Lee Hovey

Great job shiny!!

And because I am a LOFT girl, here are a few of my faves...
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/c.....pe=Regular
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/c.....pe=Regular
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/c.....pe=Regular
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/c.....pe=Regular
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/c.....pe=Regular
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/c.....pe=Regular (I really want this one. I think it would look great with a lightweight cardi left open and a skinny belt.)

Vani

Veteran

shiny you are awesome! Love those tops.

Kristine, as much as I find knit tops forgiving fitwise, I always feel best and feel like I look best in wovens. My blouses and buttondowns always outlast the knit tops. Knit tops are great for traveling and in a pinch. I don't mind the ironing and feel smartest and most put together in blouses and shirts. Good luck on your blouse hunt!