Classic, Chic and Trend-Proof—These Are the 5 Tops Fashion People Always Wear With Skirts and Jeans

Here at Who What Wear, we're all about investing in the wardrobe staples. Focusing on the core pieces that you will wear time and time again is, in our minds, the easiest and most fool-proof way to build a dream wardrobe. And when the summer months roll around, the top item on our minds is, well, tops.

Personally, I think finding the bottom half of your outfit requires the most work. You have to suss out what style, silhouette and fit best suits you. Do you prefer high hems or long? Billowing shapes or a more structured fit? Having put in the work to sort that half out, you want to make sure you have a good variety of tops to keep them feeling fresh and fashionable. Luckily, particularly in summer, the best and most stylish tops tend to be the simplest.

The five top categories I've pulled here are the ultimate wardrobe workhorses. Understated and versatile, they are your canvas with which you can build whatever look you want. Sure, a classic white t-shirt may look simple at first, but that top can transform depending on what you pair it with. Throw it on with the very on-trend Bermuda shorts and slides and you have an easy, breezy daytime look. Style it with a maxi slip skirt and strappy kitten heels, and you have an effortlessly cool evening look.

Since these are such versatile styles that transcend trend and season, this is definitely a category that is worth investing in. But you by no means have to—high street favourites from Arket to Cos have more than got these staple styles covered. Here, discover my pick of the must-have tops for every wardrobe, as well as my edit of the best versions around.

1. Striped Shirt

Style Notes: We all know how useful a button down shirt is, but I think a striped shirt is by far the way to go. The stripe pattern does all the work of elevating a look and making it more fun and considered than a simple one-tone version, and yet is such a classic print that it really does go with anything.

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2. Tank Top

Style Notes: Ah, the simple tank top. Don't overlook its importance—a great, high quality tank can look effortlessly cool in a 90s minimalist way, as Sylvie shows. But it comes in handy all year round, as you can layer it under open shirts or cardigans.

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3. White Blouse

Style Notes: Crafted from lace or striped cotton, embroidered or plain, a white blouse adds an elevated touch to any outfit. And no matter which style you go for, you'll find that a white blouse always exudes that perfectly timeless vibe.

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4. T-Shirt

Style Notes: A new t-shirt is always a good idea. Refresh your summer whites and get a crisp white t-shirt in your wardrobe—you'll never regret having an extra tee.

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5. Tailored Vest

Style Notes: I will never stop singing the praises of a tailored vest. This style is particularly great for summer workwear, offering a more refined top than a casual t-shirt. This season, influencers are also proving its versatility, branching out from the classic tailored trouser and vest look to pair it with the very on-trend voluminous white skirt.

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