Three summer tops to try if t-shirts aren’t your thing

When we think of tops to wear in summer, we inevitably think about a t-shirt. Whether sleeveless, short sleeve or half sleeve, a cotton t-shirt can be a real wardrobe staple.

But for some women, finding one that fits the way they’d like, doesn’t cling in all the wrong places and washes well can feel like a never-ending trial.

If you’ve ever stood in a changing room wondering why something so simple feels so hard to get right, you’re definitely not alone.

The good news is I have some lovely alternatives to share with you that are still easy and wearable for everyday life.

3. A Knitted Cotton Top

    

   I’ve seen plenty of these on the rails this summer and they are proving to be a great option for clients who don’t feel comfortable in a standard cotton t-shirt.

   Because they’re knitted rather than jersey, they tend to skim rather than cling, which many women find much more flattering and comfortable to wear. Cotton keeps them breathable and lightweight, but the finish feels a little more polished and elevated.

   They also work beautifully if you want something casual that still looks “put together”. Wear them with linen trousers, denim or even tailored shorts and you instantly look a bit more styled without any extra effort.

   Depending on your personal style, you could go for a fine knit with a neat neckline for a more classic feel, or choose something slightly looser and textured for a more relaxed look.

   This boucle knitted top from M&S is reasonably priced and versatile.

                                                                                                                                                                       A Linen Shell Top

                                                                                                                                                         Whether you prefer a high neckline or a V-neck, a linen shell top is one of those pieces that just works in summer. Cool, relaxed and effortless, it pairs beautifully with shorts, jeans and skirts alike. I particularly love these for women who want something sleeveless but don’t want the sporty feel of a vest top. A shell top can feel a touch more refined while still keeping you comfortable in warmer weather.                                                                                                                                                                                                                If creasing bothers you, look for a linen blend rather than pure linen. A blend tends to hold its shape a little better than pure linen throughout the day. That said, linen does naturally have that relaxed, lived-in look, so if you are very classic in your style personality and like everything looking crisp and polished, it may not be your favourite fabric at all.

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5. This one from Boden is a lovely example if you suit a frill. (If you aren’t sure of your true style, make sure you’ve done my free Style Quiz!)

7. A Silky T-Shirt

For a slightly dressier look, try a silky t-shirt. It has almost exactly the same easy shape as a traditional t-shirt, but the fabric instantly gives it a softer, more elegant feel.

These are brilliant if you want something that can work during the day with jeans and trainers, but also transition easily into the evening with jewellery and smarter trousers or a skirt.

A silky fabric also tends to drape much more fluidly over the body, which can feel more comfortable and flattering if you don’t like the clinginess of cotton jersey.

Try a matte finish for a casual look and something a bit shiny for an evening or special occasion. Neutral colours are always useful, but any colour that suits your skin tone will be a great addition to your wardrobe this summer.

I love this silk one from Reiss!

At the end of the day, the best summer tops are the ones that help you to feel comfortable, confident and like yourself. If traditional cotton t-shirts have never quite worked for you, it may simply be that you haven’t found your best alternative yet.

Let me know if you are going to try any of these ideas, or add your own in the comments.