ISO: Sturdy, Solid Knit Tops

Emily

Any recommendations for sturdy knit tops? I am looking for something solid, in black or grey, dressier than a basic tee that would most likely be worn under a cardigan but could stand alone. I had a black top in a sturdy knit with some detail at the neckline that lasted me several years, but it is now dead (RIP, versatile black top). I've tried a few from Banana Republic but the fabric was flimsy, the neckline low, and the fit too snug across my bust.

Your expertise is greatly appreciated?

12 years ago

Shopping

12 replies

Latest reply was from Laura (rhubarbgirl)

tammyw

Active Member

My favorite knit tops follow. I wear them a lot, alone or under sweaters.

- Splendid? I especially like their cowl neck tops, though that's more than basic.
- I adore Michael Stars knits.
- Three Dots are also thick and nicely styled.
- Nordstrom's Halogen and Caslon brands - I always get a couple of those every year.
- Jcrew - I usually find a few good knits there.

12 years ago

Ruby C

Active Member

Jones New York makes great knit tops that are nice and sturdy, in a variety of necklines and sleeve lengths. I get them super cheap at Ross. They tend to be a bit short in length (on me at least; I'm long-waisted) and shrink a bit in the wash, so I just hang mine to dry to keep the fit. Avoiding softener also helps them keep their shape. Good luck!

12 years ago

MuseumGal

Veteran

Lands End. They're having 30% off, plus you can return them to Sears if they don't work out.

12 years ago

DeclawedJaguar

Veteran

I second JCrew. Their perfect fit v-neck is a great slightly fitted sturdy knit top that does not shrink or fade in the wash.

12 years ago

Gaylene

Veteran

Well, if you want something almost indestructible and you are willing to spend a bit more, I'd investigate Eileen Fisher, especially her silk jersey T's. Those T's last forever--never fading, stretching, or pilling. They are fabulous for travel because they emerge wrinkle-free after being crammed in a corner of the suitcase and can be washed in the sink and hung to dry in a pinch. The big bonus is that they also look nice just worn on their own--dressy enough to go out for dinner with an added bit of bling. If you get them on sale, they can cost only a bit more than some of the J Crew or BR cotton knit tops.

12 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

As far as mall stores, I find the tops at Talbots are sturdier than the ones at places like BR and Loft these days. Also Chico's is usually good quality.

Eddie Bauer has great quality tops, although you may have to get them online rather than in store. I agree with Lands End too, if you can find a cut that doesn't look too boxy on you - they do have a more modern fit option now.

12 years ago

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

The sturdy tops tend to sacrifice a bit in style. I have lots of those super thin tops, I never buy them full price I wait until they are on sale but even then they will be around $60 (marked down from $100). But I'm getting tired of this because $60 is still a lot for something flimsy requiring a cami underneath and which may develop small holes. None of these flimsies can go in the dryer. So I am with you in starting to want a sturdier top. I have, in the past, had good results from these brands: Eileen Fisher, Land's End, J Jill and Three Dots.

12 years ago

crasdy

Active Member

I have recently purchased two Amber Sun long sleeve ts with a ballet neck. They are very soft, are not tissue-thin, drape well and are plenty long (which I prefer). They layer nicely but can also be worn alone.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/am.....1b2166becc

12 years ago

Gigi

Veteran

I recommend Eddie Bauer and also LL Bean (although LL Bean can be a little boring).

12 years ago

Grey Rainbow

Active Member

I second everything Gaylene said about Eileen Fisher tees. Silk, organic cotton, or linen, in long sleeve, short sleeve, and sleeveless. All are indestructible (machine wash cold, line dry), great for layering and as stand alone tops. The scoop neckline across the board is just low enough to flatter collarbones and I think works well for most shapes.I pick them up on sale at Nordstrom or the Rack, when the price comes down to mass market/disposable fashion levels. Also, I appreciate the environmental and social consciousness with which the garments are manufactured.

12 years ago

columbine(erin)

Veteran

I have really enjoyed Eddie Bauer this year, I like the quality, sizing, and colors.

12 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

I agree about Amber Sun, as well as Nordstrom's Caslon line. If you can find the style you're looking for, the price is very reasonable, and the quality is great.

12 years ago

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