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If you have to ask what a Nice Top™ is, chances are you need one. It’s a whole outfit when paired with your favorite jeans, trousers, or even that mini skirt you haven’t known how to style. It always fits perfectly and will never let you down, no matter the occasion.
Here are our top (pun intended) picks for shirts you’ll feel good, nay, great in. From blouses to sweaters and everything in between.
Psst…for more recs to wear to work, when going out, and while at home, check out Fashion You’ll Actually Wear Week, our destination for affordable, stylish, and practical clothes.
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A strapless top that’ll cinch your waist…
This fall is all about a waist-cinching moment. This top is your answer to casual suiting, from the buttons up the front to the tulip-shaped hem. It looks so good with classic trousers but also pairs well with jeans and sneakers for a laid-back vibe. ($168, Reformation)
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A cashmere sweater vest you can layer or wear on its own…
One thing we can’t get enough of come fall? Sweater vests. This cashmere one is incredibly soft, so if you’re wearing it as a top, it won’t feel scratchy or itchy. You can also wear it over a button-up or plain T-shirt. It comes in five colors, but the bright red is really speaking to us. ($98, J.Crew)
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A striped cardigan you'll reach for constantly…
Between the soft ribbing and the bold contrast colors, we couldn’t not add this to our ever-growing Madewell cart. Wear it on its own or layer it over a tee as it starts to get chilly outside. You’ll never get tired of this one. Psst...use code SKIMM20 for 20% off your order. ($88, Madewell)
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A short-sleeve button-up that goes with anything…
Throw it on with a skirt or pants, dress it up or down with heels or sneakers…there’s really nothing this top can’t do. It’s a classic style, but the lapels take it up a notch. It comes in black and white and sizes XXS–XL. ($68, Anthropologie)
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Our favorite crew neck that’s not your ordinary T-shirt…
We’ll let you in on a little secret: Buck Mason makes some of our favorite women’s basics. This tee is no exception with its soft, worn-in Supima cotton and just-right fit. It comes in seven colors, and no matter how many times we wash it, it magically holds its shape. ($45, Buck Mason)
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An oxford shirt that practically screams put together…
This top is boxy and loose, so it’ll move with you. We can’t tell you how many times we’ve reached for the classic white one on our way to the office, after-work drinks, or even a casual date. It also comes in five other colors and looks great with a blazer on top. ($88, Everlane)
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A cropped cashmere sweater because cashmere is always a good idea…
Is it just us or are rom-com protagonists always looking effortlessly chic in cashmere sweaters? Pull this cozy, cropped version on with jeans, and suddenly you’re giving Main Character Energy. Grab it in blue or Barbie pink. Nancy Meyers is shaking. ($135, Naadam)
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A knit top with buttons up the front…
Now this is a date top if we’ve ever seen one. Like a cardigan that’s always buttoned up (but a whole lot sexier), this top is equal parts flirty and classy. The knit is slim-fitting but stretchy enough to be comfortable, and the sleeves flare for a touch of drama. Grab it in black or green and don’t worry about wearing it too much. ($78, Reformation)
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A blouse with a pretty bow at the neckline…
This button-up blouse has ties at the neck that lets you create an eye-catching bow or knot. It comes in the most fun prints, like large polka dots, and tucks well into dress pants, jeans, or a pencil skirt. It comes in sizes 14–32. ($34.99+, Eloquii)
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A pinstripe shirt that’ll never go out of style…
While this classic button-up is a bit pricey, we can personally vouch for the quality of every Frankie Shop item we’ve ever owned. It has an oversized fit and comes in a delightful shade of pink. We would grab the matching pants for the kind of one-and-done outfit our fashion dreams are made of. ($195, Net-A-Porter)
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A pullover blouse that’s a classic for a reason…
You really can’t go wrong with a simple tailored blouse that fits just right. This one is made of lightweight, breathable fabric that’s slightly sheer but not see-through and has sleeves you can cuff. We’d dress it up with heels and jewelry, or stick with flats for a casual weekend look. We love that it’s machine washable. ($35, Torrid)
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An embroidered mesh top that leaves us speechless…
If you’re ready to let your bralette shine through, may we suggest this stunning number? It’s embroidered with flowers and vines and comes in dressy black or elegant white. You can also wear a tank top underneath so it’s less revealing. Either way, you’ll steal the show. ($98, Anthropologie)
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A sleeveless blouse to wear under jackets or blazers…
It may not be the most glamorous, but it’s a closet staple. This pull-on blouse has a V-neck with a simple pleat that looks nice peeking out from under your chosen layering piece. It’s a transitional season hero. It comes in three neutral colors and a couple of brights. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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A sweet top with a smocked front…
Here at theSkimm, we hit subscribe to smocking. It’s flattering for all bust sizes and emphasizes your waist. This top is made from 100% cotton, so it’s as comfortable as a plain old tee, and has adorable puff sleeves to boot. It comes in blue and black and sizes XS–L. ($52, Saks Fifth Avenue)
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A chambray shirt for a Western look…
This linen-blend shirt has Western-inspired chest pockets and a lived-in feel that separate it from your average button-up. It’s slightly fitted, so size up if you want it roomy. Wear it with a darker wash jean for an all-denim outfit Britney would be proud of. ($138, Faherty)
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A sustainable top you can wear three ways…
Made out of recycled silky fabric, this top can be worn tied in the front, tied in the back, or completely reversed for an open-back moment. Talk about shopping your own closet. It comes in five colors, sizes XS–XL, and looks great with a skirt if you’re going “out” out. Psst...don't forget to use code SKIMM20 for 20% off your order. ($148, Madewell)
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