Best 2022 White Tops If Youre Over 50
As the seasons transition from winter to spring, our minds naturally turn to refreshing our wardrobes with crisp white pieces. A few new white tops can elevate your entire wardrobe, providing a versatile foundation for effortless Spring and Summer ensembles. The symbolism of white is equally compelling – it embodies the sense of renewal and purity that comes with this time of year.
As I conduct my annual review of last season’s white clothing items, I’m reminded that these pieces require frequent washing to maintain their brightness. While some may no longer meet our standards for a flawless appearance, they can still serve as a reliable layering option underneath jackets and cardigans or as a subtle way to add modesty to tops with lower necklines.
If you’re fortunate enough to have developed a lovely suntan, white tops become an excellent choice for accentuating your face and neck. The striking contrast between a radiant complexion and a crisp white shirt is one of the most effective ways to appear youthful and healthy.
How to select a new white shirt or top for 2022
When it comes to building your wardrobe, starting with a classic button-through shirt is a great foundation. From there, you can add some variety by selecting another top with a different style. Consider opting for a romantic look with cutwork or embroidery for a touch of elegance, or go for a minimalist aesthetic with straight lines and clean silhouettes. If sporty is more your vibe, look for tops with rolled or short sleeves to add some visual interest. Fabric plays a big role too – cotton and linen are great options that can breathe new life into your wardrobe. And don’t be afraid to experiment with this year’s trends, like oversized cuts, long sleeves that can be rolled up, or even short sleeves or puffed sleeves for added flair. Finally, having a few versatile basics on hand is key – consider adding a new white cami or tank to pair underneath other tops and create endless outfit combinations.
The oversized shirt silhouette
In recent years, clothing trends have been trending towards looser, wider silhouettes, reminiscent of the nineties. This resurgence is expected to persist for several seasons, making that fitted shirt you’ve been wearing a bit outdated. When it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with a classic new addition, consider opting for a boyfriend or girlfriend-style shirt, characterized by its relaxed fit. However, unless you’re a fashion enthusiast looking to make a statement, there’s no need to go for the largest, most oversized options available. Some styles may overwhelm petite figures, so it’s essential to find a balance that flatters your frame.
The classic button-down shirt in linen
The Marks and Spencer pure linen long sleeve shirt has been a standout hit this year, offering a timeless design with traditional styling. For those who prefer a regular fit rather than oversized shirts, this option is perfect. The classic silhouette makes it suitable for dressing up or down, whether you’re pairing it with a jacket at the office or rolling up the sleeves for a casual weekend look.One of its greatest advantages is its breathability, ensuring you stay cool on warm days without overheating. Plus, the versatility of tucking it in for a neat appearance or letting it hang loose for a relaxed vibe makes it an excellent addition to any wardrobe.Meanwhile, Chico’s no-iron linen tunic shirt offers three-quarter sleeves and two breast pockets, allowing you to wear it sans camisole or tank top. Designed to be worn loose and long over pants, this style also lends itself well to adding a touch of warmth to office outfits in warmer weather.While I haven’t personally purchased the Chico’s shirt (although I’m a fan), I appreciate its relaxed, soft aesthetic – ideal for those who prefer their linen with a bit of rumple. Whether you’re after pressed perfection or a more laid-back look, these two options from Marks and Spencer and Chico’s are well worth considering this year.
The relaxed button-through shirt
The Madewell Plus Courier Shirt is a standout piece from the brand’s collection of white shirts. Among its offerings, this style stands out for its generous cut, featuring a subtle ballooning effect at the back that perfectly captures the Spring trend. The wide-cut, short sleeves with cuffs are another appealing aspect, making it an excellent choice to pair over jeans for a casual weekend look.
One of the best things about this shirt is its inclusive sizing options. If you prefer a more relaxed fit or want to avoid emphasizing your waistline too much, simply purchase a size up and let the shirt hang loose – a great solution!
The feminine white top
Boden’s feminine cut-work shirt is a stunning example of how broderie and cut-work details can elevate a simple white shirt or blouse. This season, these delicate embellishments have become increasingly popular for adding a touch of femininity to any outfit. The Boden cut-work jersey shirt in particular has won me over with its beautifully designed boho-inspired blouson sleeves that create a lovely contrast to the slightly defined waistline. What I appreciate most about this shirt is its versatility – it drapes elegantly when left loose or tucked in, and the delicate embroidery around the yokes draws attention away from the midsection, making it a great choice for those of us who prefer to focus attention on our upper bodies rather than our silhouettes.
The boho blouse
Boden’s romantic ruffled popover shirt is an ideal choice for those who want to make a statement. The frilly design creates a dreamy, bohemian look when paired with a midi or maxi flounced skirt. For a more polished vibe, the blouse can be tucked into high-waist jeans and finished off with a leather belt. However, this style may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with larger busts who may find the gathered sleeves and lack of structured collar overwhelming. On the other hand, average-sized women or those with smaller breasts will likely find this shirt to be a highlight of their spring and summer wardrobe.
The minimal white shirt
The allure of black and white outfits lies in their simplicity and timelessness. For those who prefer a monochromatic palette, the combination of tone-on-tone colors can create a cohesive and stylish look that exudes self-control and sophistication.This aesthetic has gained popularity among professional women, who find it suitable for both formal office attire and more casual weekend wear. The refined and assured quality of this style makes it perfect for those who value understated elegance.The boyfriend shirt, with its long tail and baggy fit, adds a relaxed touch to any outfit, making it an excellent choice for creatives or social gatherings. Pair the shirt over black or white pants and add flat shoes or sandals for a chic ensemble.Cos’s oversized V-neck shirt in crisp cotton is a great option for this style. The two tucks at the back provide fullness, while the dropped shoulder adds a nostalgic touch reminiscent of the 1990s.Marks & Spencer also offers an oversized boyfriend shirt in linen, which features long tails that can be left hanging below a jacket or cardigan for a more relaxed look. This option is slightly more mainstream than Cos’s offering and thus more accessible to a wider audience. The shoulder seam sits just above the tip of the shoulder, and the back has a single tuck.When wearing white tops, especially linen, it’s best to layer with a cami or sleeveless tank underneath for added comfort and coverage.