Where do you shop for tops? Easier said than done, I’m always on the look-out for cute and flattering options to pair with my summer bottoms. Believe it or not, “flattering tops” are the most requested “where do I shop for?” item on AskSuzanneBell.com. Cool weather sweaters, shirts, and blouses tend to be forgiving, but summer tops – not always so. So today, I’ve rounded up and styled 4 different everyday top silhouettes that will flatter most of us gals over 40. From tunics to tops with a twist, each of these silhouettes can work back to our favorite jeans and summer bottoms. THEN, in the event you are in the market to add a few new tops to your summer wardrobe, I’ve linked-up a few finds from the Nordstrom 1/2 Yearly Sale along with a few regular priced items to shop and browse. The sale started Wednesday, so if you see something you love, grab it before it’s gone! But wait…keep scrolling because at the bottom of today’s post there’s more. More tops on promo from Boden and JCrew along with a round-up of sandals from the Nordstrom 1/2 Yearly Sale. Happy Browsing!
NOTE: To view details and links on any of today’s featured styles, simply click on the photo. If you are on a mobile device, the selections will not appear in a grid format and you will need to swipe left to view all of today’s picks.
1. Tops With Strategically Placed Ruching
Designers have smartened up to the idea that we women over 40 love a little twist in our garments. Tops with ruching and strategically placed “twists” are designed to help hide those areas we want to skim over – ie: the muffin, hips, thighs…you get the idea. With a simple twist in the right area, regular tees can become so much more flattering.
THIS shirred v-neck tee from Caslon is one of my favorites, now on sale in 4 colors, XS-XXL at Nordstrom for $17.40 | HERE. And if you prefer a crew-neck style, the ruched cap sleeve t-shirt by Kenneth Cole is available at Nordstrom Rack in XS-XL, in 3 colors on sale for $29.97 (reg $59) HERE. Also at Nordstrom Rack, THIS v-neck striped t-shirt dress can be dressed up with wedge sandals or down with sneakers, now $34.97 | HERE.
STYLIST TIP: You can create a bit of ruching on your own by simply knotting your tee, or twisting it – then securing the tie with a clear hair tie (see photo #3).
Here’s a look at a some fab tops (and dresses) with strategically placed ruching, available now at Nordstrom:
2. Tunic Tops
Another forgiving summer style is the tunic. Gracefully skimming the hips, the right tunic top will elongate as it skims the hip. Pair her with a pair of skinny bottoms or for a carefree elegant holiday look try a pair of wide leg linen pants and wedges. Bouns, this style double as a swim coverup for vacation-ready wear!
Shop Tunics! Regular and sale price picks from the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale:
3. Tie Front Tops
The beauty of a tie front (or back) top is that you can adjust it as needed. It will also create the silhouette of a waist when there is little waist present. This is one of my favorite top silhouettes.
Here’s a look at a few regular and sale price tie tops from the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale:
4. Wrap Tops and Dresses
Ah, the iconic wrap style! Why do we love it? Because it is the one style that can be fully adjusted to fit just about any shape or size.
For more ways on how to style a wrap dress visit How to Wear a DVF Wrap Dress as a Tunic, Top or Cardigan (HERE)
Shop wrap tops and dresses!
More Places to Browse Flattering Tops!
Boden: Now thru 5/27, take 30% off your entire purchase with code C7R2.
JCREW: Now thru 5/23, 40% off your entire purchase with code SHOP40.
Nordstrom 1/2 Yearly Summer Sandals:
Since I can’t help myself, here’s a look at a few fab shoes to pair up with your summer looks!
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