I'm a dress girl through and through, preferring to wear them throughout the seasons, so admittedly the tops section of my wardrobe is a little lacklustre. That plight is common consensus, as ‘jeans and a nice top’ is the elusive fashion pairing we’re all searching for.
We’re shortly entering the period for transitional dressing and this season I’ve witnessed some beautiful pieces at sensible price points. Retailers are refining their top and blouse selections and weaving in billowy-shaped garments, that can be worn with skirts, trousers, and jeans. I’ve spotted the prettiest of tops featuring gauzy open weaves, embroidered detailing, and romantic adornments—whether it be a ruffled collar or broderie anglaise fabric.
There’s a certain method I adhere to when it comes to shopping for good quality tops on the high street. I prioritise natural fibres and simple pared-back designs, as I know they’re likely to withstand the test of time. Nine times out of 10 I’ll opt for a white variation—white tops always hit the sophistication brief. Paired with jeans, they can be transitioned into an evening outfit with the addition of strappy heels and a red lip. The other style I adore is a dropped shoulder scooped neck cut. Specific, yes, but it’s the perfect way to modernise an outfit, without too many bells and whistles. The length can be tucked into the waistband of maxi and midi skirts for a bohemian feel.
Claudia wears the shirt blouse hybrid that's becoming increasingly popular. The addition of a cuffed hem gives this blouse a vintage feel.
As my love affair with Parisian style grows, so too does my pursuit for the perfect embroidered blouse. If you’re nodding in agreement, then rest assured, I have you covered on the pretty blouse front. Keep scrolling for my edit of 29 expensive-looking tops on the high street. It's guaranteed to have you feeling excited about top-half dressing once more.
Shop my high-street-top edit
I have a puff sleeve blouse just like this. I tuck it into jeans and linen skirts to get the most wear out of it.
Women across Paris wear embroidered blouses just like this throughout the year.
Thanks to Matteau, bowling shirts have become so popular. I predict sell-out status here!
This looks so much more expensive than its price point.
So good it's not a terrible idea to get it in both colours…
Pair this swanky top with jeans and strappy sandals for an evening look.
This blouse is a beauty. I'm always drawn to fluted neck broderie anglaise tops.
Wear it with a flowing maxi skirt and chunky sandals.
I've had my eye on this shirt for a while and now it's gone into the sale!
Look back for lattice detailing.
Open back details are a subtle way of wearing the bold cut-out trend.
Scoop neck, frills and cuffed sleeves? I’m impressed.
This soft voile is the perfect fabrication for hot summer days.
Wear with high-waisted straight-leg jeans for a girly Parisian vibe.
If you told me this was £100 I would believe you.
Both dress and vest variations are classics.
This gorgeous blouse is right at the top of my wish list.
Boat neck vests will forever look regal.
I adore this muted yellow tone. Pop the single button open for a casual look.
Knitwear aficionados, you needn't leave knitwear behind in the summer thanks to sleeveless styles.
Smocked detailing is not only for sundresses. It's a great design feature on tops, too.
Wear it with the matching maxi skirt and tan sandals for a complete summer look.
I'm gradually introducing more colour into my wardrobe and this shade of yellow is one of my favourites.
I've loved this blouse for a while now. It's a top you can wear every summer with a denim mini skirt and sandals.
This looks like a designer buy without the hefty price tag.
Pair this with a free-flowing maxi skirt for a polished look.
From raglan sleeves to grosgrain tape and embroidery details, you can’t dispute the craftmanship.
Wrap and puff sleeve blouses are my favourite styles, so this match is heavenly.
A reversible halter top with an art deco-style motif. You can't get much fancier.
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