Basic Tops
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Let’s have a look and remind ourselves of the shapes we should be looking for when it comes to basic tops. When you have your list of basics, it can feel overwhelming when you have to think about what type of basic you should be buying, but honestly, you really don’t have to overthink it. You just want to be following the rules for your body shape and applying those to the item of clothing - and you have got this!!!
💡If you're not sure of those basic rules, spend five minutes reminding yourself by watching the video in the original Teachable course!
For example (a bit off topic) but if we are talking about trousers, if you are a triangle, you’ll want to look for a basic neutral or dark pair of trousers with hardly any detail, neat pockets, etc. On the other hand, if you are an inverted triangle, you might consider a more colourful pair and can get away with embellishments, details, and patterns, you just need to apply your body shape rules (and what YOU know works for you) to the item.
When it comes to tops, let’s talk about necklines for each body shape:
Triangle: Aim for scoop or boat necks to balance out your proportions by drawing attention upward.
Rectangle: You can wear almost any neckline, but in particular look for necklines that add curves, like sweetheart, scoop, or boat necks. These add softness and create the illusion of more shape.
Hourglass: Emphasize your balanced proportions with v-necks, wrap tops, or scoop necklines. These styles enhance your natural shape.
Circle: Necklines that elongate, such as v-necks or open collars, are ideal. Avoid high necklines, which can add bulk to your upper body.
Inverted Triangle: V-necks or deeper necklines work beautifully to draw attention downward and soften the appearance of broader shoulders. Avoid high necklines or embellishments at the neckline, which can add volume to your upper body.
💡 Reminders: You can manipulate tops to work for your body shape by styling them. For example, triangles can wear v-necks if they layer a straight top beneath the v. If v-necks are your best shape but you want to wear higher top, you can also use jewellery to add the v-shape and draw the eye downward.
It’s your body and YOUR RULES, hopefully by now you will have got a bit of an idea about what feels good AND looks good on you is more important than just blindly following the rules (I’m triangle shaped and often wear v-neck/scoop neck) lets just use the body shape rules as a jumping off point.
Bust Considerations
Dressing for our bust size can sometimes add extra complications when we’re choosing tops. If your body shape rules suggest wearing a higher-necked top but you feel that this brings too much attention to your bust, you can mix the rules together. For example, you could wear a bright v-neck so that the colours work for your body shape while the shape flatters a larger bust.
On the other hand, if you’re conscious of showing too much cleavage, you can layer a straight top under your v-neck to provide the coverage you’re comfortable with while still maintaining the flattering shape.
Layering is your best friend here, as it allows you to adapt tops to suit both your style and comfort level. Don’t be afraid to adjust the guidelines to fit your preferences—this is your wardrobe, and it should spark joy and confidence every time you get dressed.
Right let's have a look at what’s currently in the shops
This list is focused on neutral tops, I’ll put together another list soon with some coloured options.
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Lots of these tops will have various colour ways, so if you find one you like it’s worth looking at the other shades (we can help you in the group if you are unsure about the colours.)
I also can’t recommend Kettlewell enough for basic tops, they are more pricey than high street styles - but they have a great range of shapes and obviously colours. I bought some over the Christmas period (I’ll do a post on it next week - sharing what I grabbed!) and a lot of the tops are currently in the sale.