Blouse are a familiar and versatile piece of clothing, they can be styled for an elegant dinner date, or worn to the office, short sleeved blouses in finer fabrics can also give a sultry edge to every woman’s separates collection. Blouses tend to be quite loose fitting and slightly tapered at the waist, to follow the contours of a feminine body. Although some have long sleeves, short sleeved blouses are better suited to warmer months and indoor-wear.

Women have plenty of choice when selecting a colour for their blouse as they are available in a range of shades and patterns. Pinstripe looks professional, but softer compositions, containing flowers, stars or animal prints are great for off-duty swank. Most have buttons to the front, but occasionally a zipper will be used instead. Cotton is a popular fabric for everyday short sleeved blouses, but for evening glamour, some women prefer sheerer fabrics which they layer with a camisole top underneath.

The different designs of short sleeved blouses

As with any timeless garment short sleeved blouses are available in many different designs, from work-a-day chic, to high fashion, and relaxed fits. Here are three of the most popular types of short sleeved blouse available today.

Short sleeved blouses in an Oxford button down style offer an air of class and sophistication. Very popular with the country set, these smart blouses often feature a contrasting material to the collar and cuff. The tips of each collar are kept in place with small buttons, hence the name. These women’s tops are manufactured in sturdy, yet comfortable materials, like linen, cotton or silk. They are the perfect choice for a day spent outdoors, running errands, or a casual coffee date.

A wrap blouse looks incredible on every type of figure, these more intricate items are reminiscent of ballerina tops and clinch in the waist beautifully. Most short sleeved blouses in a wrap finish have a swathe of fabric drawn across the chest from one side, with another underneath, drawn in the other direction. Some meet at the back in a delicate tie, whilst others are attached either side of the waist with stitching. The neckline can be plunging, to give the impression of a leaner, longer neck, or more modest, depending on the preference of the wearer.

Peasant blouses were first launched on the fashion scene in the 1970’s, but recently they’ve been trending again, as a cool fuss-free alternative to the formality of other short sleeved blouses. As peasant tops are usually made from light fabrics, they are often worn in the summer months, or on holiday. To work the look in winter, simply layer-up for warmth, by including a long-sleeved t-shirt underneath.

Dressing to flatter your figure in short sleeved blouses

Anyone can wear a top they love regardless of their body shape, here are a few ideas to consider when choosing a short sleeve blouse.

A fitted blouse on an hour-glass figure looks fabulous, so make the most of those coveted curves in a tailored top. Combine it with a pair of trendy skinny jeans and sheepskins boots to finish off the street smart look. In more formal situations, add gold jewellery, a pencil skirt and some kitten heels, for a sassy secretarial vibe.

For shorter or more petite women, a pinstripe shirt will elongate the body. Leave the top half unbuttoned over a black dress, then add dark tights and ankle boots for an office chic. Alternatively, wear neatly tucked in to dark denim jeans, using a leather belt to show off a small waist and finish with cute, comfy ballet pumps.

Balance out the proportions of a tall slim figure by combining short sleeved blouses with a high wasted skirt, then draw attention to those long legs with a colourful strappy heel. Willowy limbs are extremely enviable, so work a boxy button up blouse with denim shorts in the summer sun, and add gold leather sandals to brighten the feet.

The right blouse will live in a woman’s closet year after year, bringing a touch of class and elegance to any fashion moment. Look for quality short sleeved blouses in our online shop, for an adaptable, flirty and feminine addition to any modern woman’s collection.