Suzanne Carillo

We are at the blouse stage in our top 10 classic wardrobe foundations. The blouse you buy will effortlessly combine with every other piece from your 10 classics. Paired with jeans it'll give a feminine touch, paired with a pencil skirt a sexy secretary vibe or paired with your suit a corporate image. It is a chameleon in the fashion world and a workhorse in your wardrobe.

 How should my blouse fit? 

Blouses drape your body. They are soft and feminine. The shoulder seam should sit right on your natural shoulder, not down your arm. The buttons should not pull across the bust. The bottom of the blouse should not be below your crotch. Often today blouses are made extra long so that they can be worn as tunics, if you purchase one like this but plan on tucking them in later, remember there will be lots more to tuck. 

What cut of blouse should I buy? 

Personally, I am very partial to bow blouses. I love the vintage aesthetic. You may work  in a corporate setting in which case a simple button down silk blouse might be more suitable. 

Layering is sometimes easier with a blouse that has a collar and sleeves.  

What is the right shape for me?

 If you are shorter choose a blouse that has an open V neckline, or a button neckline that can be opened.

If you are large chested be aware that most blouses will look better on you if they are belted or tucked in to define your waist.  

If you are very tall or have a long torso you can choose a high neckline as this will visually shorten the torso. 

What type of fabric should I choose? 

My idea fabric is silk, however it needs to be dry cleaned and that can be expensive. There are lots of good poly blends that mimic the look of silk however they are also prone to static cling if you live in a dryer climate. Natural fabrics breathe and will be much softer next to the skin. 

What colour should I choose?

Solid colours are easier to combine with other pieces. Smaller patterns will read as texture to the eye and add depth to an outfit. Large patterns are more difficult to layer with other pieces.

Neutral colours are easier to combine but for me this is where I like to see a pop of colour or a bit of pizazz to brighten up the wardrobe and add some personality to the other classic pieces you will be combining it with.