Sep 29, 2019

I Ruthlessly Whittled Down the Best Blouses on the Internet to These Top 20

by Nicole Kliest

As much as I stan a relaxed, lived-in basic tee, there's something unequivocally enticing about a pretty top. The term "pretty top" doesn't necessarily do it justice, though, so I'll elaborate on what it means to me. In order to be deemed such, the blouse in question needs to fulfill a certain set of expectations. Generally, there's a romantic color palette involved, like pale rose, sage green, or a nice floral pattern. You'll also find delicate design details like ruffles, lace, or smocking. The silhouette certainly comes into play, whether it be via a puff sleeve or a peplum effect. All of these elements come together to formulate a pretty top that you can throw on and instantly feel confident in—often, even if the rest of the outfit is simple, like a slip skirt or pair of jeans.

If you're looking to add pretty tops to your closet, I'm here to help kick-start your efforts. I spent a long time on the internet whittling down the best of the best for you to shop (20, to be exact).

H&M Puff-Sleeved Top ($15)

If you don't consider your style overtly romantic, opt for a subtle pretty top that has thoughtful touches, like a petite puff sleeve.

& Other Stories Linen Blend Corset Top ($59)

Add this corset to your favorite blouses and shirts for a Victorian-inspired effect.

Zara Balloon Sleeve Top ($50)

Wow, your party dresses are about to get jealous.

Topshop Plain Scallop Shirt ($55)

The delicate scalloping details on this blouse are somehow subtle and statement-making.

Mango Ruffled Cotton Blouse ($60)

A delightfully ruffled white blouse is seasonless. To translate it to fall, wear it with velvet trousers and boots.

Merlette Majorelle Smocked Blouse ($380)

Nothing quite like the combination of a high neck, fluted sleeves, and smock detailing.

Pixie Market Pale Blue Ruched Shirt ($98)

Consider this your button-down shirt taken to the next level.

Eloquii Tie Waist Puff Sleeve Top ($70)

A sash tied around the waist makes an otherwise ordinary top feel special.

Batsheva Apron Printed Blouse ($219)

For the vintage lover who lives for a cool textile and a Peter Pan collar.

Christy Dawn The Uma Top ($148)

From the tie-front detail to the delicate buttons, this pink blouse is a winner.

Doen Henri Top ($218)

Ruffles are always a foolproof option when choosing a pretty top.

Ulla Johnson Adelaide Shirt ($325)

Style this autumn top with a pair of wide-leg jeans and lace-up boots.

ASOS Design Curve Satin Cami ($24)

The going-out top that'll always get you compliments.

Tory Burch Wrap-Effect Hammered-Satin and Silk Top ($348)

There's beauty in simplicity, especially when it comes via a silk top like this one.

Cinq à Sept Joan Sequin Turtleneck Top ($295)

Start the holiday season early with this incredible party top.

Cult Gaia Petra Tencel top ($328)

Any Pride and Prejudice fans in the house?

Rebecca Taylor Short Sleeve Ottoman Top ($350)

Sometimes all you is a puff sleeve and a pink palette.

Warm Daisy Blouse ($350)

Once the weather cools down, you can layer this top under a sweater and let the high ruffled neck peek out.

Madewell Ruffle-Yoke Top ($72)

Pretty top but make it Western.

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