Curious about how to wear a statement top? As a personal stylist, I have you covered.
Top: Rebecca Taylor, similar here / Jeans: Universal Thread, similar here / Earrings: Argento Vivo, similar here / Shoes: Michael Kors, similar here / Bag: Rebecca Minkoff, similar here / Sunglasses: Persol, similar here
**Note: I had originally featured these photos back in a blog post in 2018. I’ve since updated my “Statement Top” shopping picks to reflect pieces available in 2024.**
Elevated basics have been popular for years. But, clients and blog readers are craving something a bit more interesting.
Enter the statement top. It’s not a basic tee or a button-down. No. The statement top is eye-catching. It is designed to help you stand out from the crowd. The right one should complement your looks and personality.
A vibrant top is also a nice way to make your more basic bottoms feel fun and fresh again. This is why it’s so nice to incorporate these pieces into your wardrobe.
How to Choose a Statement Top
There are so many different variations of statement tops out there. It can be overwhelming. Some tops have interesting shapes. Others have bold patterns. Some have unique textures.
Read on to see my three tips for selecting a statement top that will work for you.
- Choose a style that compliments your body shape. If you are an hourglass or a pear-shaped woman, go for a top that has a defined waist. You can achieve this by using a belt, draping, a peplum, or some other waist-defining detail. If you are an apple-shaped woman, a blouse with flutter sleeves or an empire waistline works well.
- Select something that will work with your basics. If you happen to wear a lot of black and camel trousers, choose a top that works well with those bottoms. If you live in denim, then pick a statement top that pairs well with jeans.
- Go for a top that suits your coloring. A statement top should catch the eye without being overwhelming. Make sure you choose one in a color that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
- If you feel awkward wearing it, skip it. Do not talk yourself into buying something that you don’t have the confidence to wear.
How to Style a Statement Top
Now that you know how to shop for the right statement tops, let’s talk about how to wear them. We must create balance. This means keeping the rest of your outfit simple.
Statement tops work best with:
- High-waisted, straight-leg, and skinny jeans
- Straight leg pants
- Tailored trousers
- Midi Skirts
It’s important to ensure the pieces go together, although they don’t have to match.
For example, a pattered, blue cotton statement top works well with jeans. They are both casual and light in nature. Alternatively, a silver sequin top looks great with black trousers. They’re both dressier pieces.
How to Accessorize Statement Tops
To keep the focus on the statement piece, I also recommend wearing classic, simple shoes. Are you on the shorter side, like me? Try coordinating your shoes with the hem of your pants. It doesn’t have to be an exact color match. Generally speaking, lighter color bottoms work best with lighter shoes. Darker bottoms will be more flattering when worn with darker shoes.
When it comes to handbags, you can get a bit more creative here. A metallic bag goes well with nearly everything. A simple tote or clutch looks nice too. It’s again back to ensuring that all of your pieces are in thematic harmony.
For jewelry, a pair of earrings goes fabulously well with a statement top. I skip necklaces when creating this type of look. I don’t want anything to pull focus from the top.
Due to my sensitive eyes, I almost always wear sunglasses when outdoors. I recommend you do the same for the health of your eyes and extra sun protection.
How to Wear a Statement Top
Now that you’ve got your top, outfit, and accessories in order it’s time to wear your statement top. The most important element is feeling confident in what you’re wearing. Even if you’ve chosen something that technically looks good, if you don’t feel comfortable, it won’t work.
Even as a stylist, I’ve made this mistake. When shopping for myself I tried on a top that looked a bit too “Ren Faire” for my taste. It was flattering, fit well, and rendered in a complementary color. Yet, it didn’t work.
Why? I felt like I was wearing a costume. I felt silly in it. Skip any purchases that make you feel ridiculous.
Another key part of building your confidence is making sure you feel put together. This is aside from your outfit. Are you happy with your hair, makeup, and/or skincare situation?
Once you’re happy with your look and confident in your top, you can wear it anywhere. It’s a fun way to stand out at work. They’re a nice break from dresses for dates and formal occasions. They can help you escape a style rut and wake up the rest of your closet.
Shopping Finds for Statement Tops
Below are some of my favorite statement tops of 2024.
Alice + Olivia Le Parisien Mesh Long-Sleeve Crop Top
While this is billed as a crop top, it will be hip length for most women. You can see that it’s barely cropped on the 5’10” model. While a matching skirt is available, I prefer this top with light or white jeans.
Amour Vert Lisa Coton Linen Shirt
Pair this gorgeous top with straight-leg jeans or a matching skirt. A matching set is such a great way to look instantly stylish. It’s also so helpful for women who can’t wear dresses due to wearing vastly different sizes on the top and bottom.
Ba&sh Chili Silhouette V Neck Top
Contemporary brand Ba&sh has made several tops in this cut over the past couple of years. They’re very well-made and flattering.
LoveShackFancy Velma Sequin Tank Top
Oh, my elder millennial heart hopes this is a sign we’re bringing back the “going out top”. Pair with bootcut jeans, kitten heels, and an LV pochette for the ultimate in Y2K nostalgia.
Ramy Brook Emily Satin Puff Sleeve Blouse
No, I’m not ready to let go of Barbie Pink. It’s been one of my favorite colors to wear, going back to 2016. I’ll never stop loving this bold, feminine hue.
Vince Camuto Off-the-shoulder Bubble Sleeve Blouse
This statement top is under $100 and so wearable. Off-the-shoulder tops are a great way to show a little skin. They work well if you’re not comfortable with showing arms or cleavage.
Final Thoughts on Wearing a Statement Top
Statement tops are a fun way to showcase your individuality and update your wardrobe. Be sure to choose one that makes you feel confident. Keep the rest of your outfit simple. Keep accessories minimal. Then, you’ll be getting compliments like crazy.
Do you have a favorite statement top? Do you have a question on how to wear one? Send me an email or leave a comment. I’d love to hear from you!
Professional Photos by Dayley Photography
