Women’s Tops

Blouses, tanks, t-shirts, halter, crop tops, and more.

I’ve noticed an odd trend of listing tank tops and camisoles as vests, which is inaccurate. A vest is a piece of clothing, like a jacket without sleeves, that is worn over other clothes for warmth or protection.

Pants and Jeans

Wide-leg trousers and 90s-inspired denim are a dominant trend. These have evolved into a wardrobe staple, often featuring ultra-high rises, pleat details, and partially elasticated waistbands for a “fluid and flawless” look.

Shorts, Skirts, and Skorts

Denim skorts and high-waisted shorts are particularly prominent, often featuring vintage-inspired fits like the “mom” short.

Bras

The purpose of a bra is to provide comfort, support, and shape to the breasts, though the specific reason for wearing one varies widely among individuals.

For those with larger breasts, a well-fitted bra supports the weight of the breasts, which can prevent pain in the shoulders, back, and neck.

Bras provide a layer of coverage, preventing nipples from showing through clothing, which is important for modesty or to conform to social expectations in certain settings.

Bralette

A bralette is a lightweight, wire-free, and often unpadded undergarment designed for comfort and a natural look, providing soft support without the structure of a traditional bra.

Bralettes are versatile, serving as everyday bras, undershirts, or even outerwear, and are available in various materials like lace, mesh, and cotton, with options for removable padding and different styles such as seamless, strapless, and racerback.

Young Adult Bras

Prioritizes comfort, proper fit, and age-appropriate style with adjustable features like straps and bands.

Featuring soft, breathable fabrics and wire-free designs to accommodate growth and prevent irritation. Comfortable bralettes for everyday wear or supportive sports bras for an active lifestyle.

Bandeau

The Bandeau’s functionality makes it an excellent choice for everyday use.

It is commonly seen as streetwear, in swimsuits, and as underwear.

It is similar to a tube top, but narrower, and does not cover the abdomen. Generally, they are strapless, but some Bandeaus come with removable straps.

A Bandeau is usually sleeveless and off-the-shoulder. They are commonly made from a stretchy elastic material such as spandex to keep the garment from slipping out of place.

Other methods include tying or pinning in the front or back, and a halter.

What is the difference between a bandeau and a tube top?

The main difference between the two garments is that a bandeau exposes the midriff, while a tube top covers it.

Here are some other differences between these garments:

Length: A bandeau is shorter and focuses just on the bust, while a tube top is typically longer and covers more of the torso.

Material: A tube top is often made from a synthetic stretch material, while natural fabrics, such as soft cotton, crochet, or smocked fabrics, characterize a boho bandeau.

A bandeau and a tube top are not to be confused with the crop top, a similar garment with a neckline.

What is the midriff?

The midriff is the part of the human body between the chest and the waist.

In fashion, it is exposed when wearing a bandeau, crop top, swimwear, or underwear.

What are some of the different styles of Bandeau?

Varying fabric types, accessories, and methods of securement in bandeau production have resulted in a wide variety of styles.

Despite being strapless, these tops often feature side boning, internal shelf bras, and silicone grip tape to ensure they stay in place.

Band

The standard form of a bandeau.

A single piece of fabric made from a stretchy elastic material, such as spandex, to keep the garment from slipping out of place.

More Band Samples…

Ruched and Twisted

A style where fabric is gathered into tight, decorative folds, pleats, or ripples using running stitches or elastic. Often used to add texture, volume, and a form-fitting look. Sometimes called scrunched.

The twist is a variation of ruched fabric whereby the front is twisted once over in the center to give a figure eight appearance to the bandeau.

Frilled and Scalloped Trims

Textured, Puckered, or Ribbed

Trellis and Ruffles

Often found together, the Trellis features a hanging section above the band of the garment. This hangs over the front of the bandeau and is typically ruffled or flowy.

Ruffles can be long or short and may be patterned to look like flowers, horizontal or vertical lines, or even a lattice design.

Lace

A common choice for bandeau underwear, often with floral or feather prints. Fabrics tend to include silk or nylon/spandex blends. Lace comes in varying degrees of transparency from sheer, to semi-sheer, and opaque.

More Lace…

Tied Bandeau

This version of the bandeau is split in the front or the back, with the sides secured together by a string. A portion of the string may include beads or other features to draw the eyes.

• Front Tie: The ties can be tucked into the bandeau or left in a bow.
• Back Tie: Tied in the back with optional removable straps for the cups.
• Halter Tie: The top is tied behind the neck while the bottom may be secured with a band or clasp. The front strap may crossover.
• Fixed Loop: This variation on the halter uses a loop that fits over the head and rests on the neck. Often these are stylishly beaded.

Over-The-Shoulder Bandeau

Includes short adjustable sleeves that can be repositioned to cover the shoulders. Typically found as a single piece of fabric. The fabric is light and airy with an elastic trim to secure the garment.

More Over-The-Shoulder…

Feature Front Bandeau

This version features a distinct metal or plastic ring at the center of the bust. Some varieties may use a Split-Ring, a V-shaped bar, or some other hardware acting as a focal point.

These are typically not functional for securing the garment and are only decorative.

• O-Ring: a complete circle of plastic or metal connects the sides or front of the bandeau.
• Split-Ring: may be a circle split at the top or a u-shape. Metal or plastic.
• V-Bar: a metal bar shaped in a V connects the front of the bandeau.
• Buckle: like a belt buckle or sometimes a clasp.
• Clasp or Zipper: often metal and gold in color.
• Flower: may be made from fabric (ruffle), plastic, or metal hardware.

Knotted or Crochet

Another feature front may include a permanently tied knot.

Braided fabric may be found along the trim, the sides, or, more uncommonly, securing the back of the bandeau.

Crochet is the art of creating textiles by interlocking loops of yarn with a hooked needle, using foundational techniques like the slip knot, chain stitch, single crochet, and double crochet.

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