The key features in any flattering article of clothing are that it highlights the areas you want to focus on, conceals those you don't, fits perfectly, uses proportions to the greatest effect, and elongates the body. While it may seem like a tall order for one top, there are a few styles out there that meet all of the criteria you're seeking in one well-constructed package.
To find out which styles are at the top (no pun intended) of the most-flattering list, we called upon one of our favorite celebrity stylists to give us her expert opinion. Tara Swennen, the mastermind behind impeccable looks from It girls Kristen Stewart, Emily Ratajkowski, Lauren Conrad, and Jaime King, clearly knows a thing or two about dressing to impress. Swennen counts three types of tops in particular as wardrobe must-haves. Scroll down to learn what she cites as the most figure-flattering qualities of each style, and to shop her picks!
Oversize sleeves will leave your arms looking slimmer in comparison—proportional dressing at its finest.
Tara's pick:
"I am a firm believer that a classic white button-up shirt is a closet essential for any woman, but this shirt is unique with its romantic ruffled sleeves. This is also one of the most versatile tops as it can go from the office to a night on the town. It's professional and flirty all at once!" — Tara Swennen
Shop more tops with voluminous sleeves:
Everyone's shoulders look great, so they're the best female body part to highlight.
Tara's pick:
"This top is great because it's lightweight and form-hugging. It tucks perfectly into a pencil skirt, a pair of culottes, or trousers. The halter shows off one's shoulders, and the turtleneck currently falls right on trend!" — Tara Swennen
Shop more turtleneck halter tanks:
Any top that draws in at the waist and has a slightly longer length naturally creates a subtle hourglass—a look that will never go out of style.
Tara's pick:
"This tank is flattering in so many ways! The deep V and length of the top elongates one's frame. The sleeveless aspect shows off one's arms, and the peplum allows you to eat a cheeseburger guilt-free!" — Tara Swennen
Shop more sleeveless flared V-neck tops:
What top styles do you find the most flattering? Tell us in the comments!
-
Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel StaleFoolproof solutions.
-
I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a TIt's time to break the rules.
-
10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This SummerNumber four is already trending.
-
Brand Layering: The Art of Knowing Which Labels to Pair With Each OtherThe ultimate styling hack.
-
The Simple Styling Trick That Turns Pencil Skirts From Corporate to Chic in 5 Seconds or LessIt's completely free and ready to copy.
-
The Curvy Girl's Guide to Finding Pants That Fit FlawlesslyWaist gap, begone.
