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Sick of layering up in jumpers and T-shirts? Enter the humble blouse. When it comes to wardrobe staples there are few that work quite as hard as a classic shirt.
It can be worn for any and all occasions – including those, most importantly, that take place in the confines of your home.
Perfectly home-office appropriate – wear comfortable trousers on the bottom and still look put together on conference calls.
But the power of this piece means it can also be worn as part of your favourite off-duty look or to Friday night (Zoom) drinks.
At the moment, when you're looking for the perfect blouse, opt for something with a big collar or big sleeves (or even both).
Wide collars shone big on the spring/summer 2020 catwalks.
Chanel’s ready-to-wear resort 2020 show saw a model don a black balloon-sleeved blouse with a supersize contrasting white collar tucked into leather Bermuda shorts.
While Victoria Beckham and JW Anderson opted for a more classic approach with pointed collars and understated tailoring. Equally as chic.
As for big sleeves Rejina Pyo, Cecilie Bahnsen and Richard Quinn made a compelling case – parading bold romantic takes on Renaissance-inspired sleeves down the runway.
Rejinya Pyo said: “Puff sleeves are a flattering way to play with shape and volume and can convey power and femininity.” And we couldn’t agree more.
When looking for the perfect sleeve, think puffy, floaty or flared, something that billows at the arm and will make you look and feel powerful.
We’ve tested blouses that are on trend – puff sleeved, square necked and statement collared – assessing their versatility, fit and the quality of the material used to ensure that you are not only stylish, but also comfortable.
You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
The oversized, wide fit of this Flo blouse is sophisticated and effortlessly feminine. It’s true to size, but if you’re worried about it being slightly too boxy you can always size down. Made from 100 per cent organic cotton, it’s kind to the planet as well as your skin. Dress up with your favourite pair of black skinny jeans or nail an off duty look and wear with straight-leg jeans and trainers. This is high-low versatility at its best.
Elastic ruching to the sleeves and bodice, along with the square-neckline, makes this silk blend blouse is a firm favourite. The perfect, slightly cropped length is flattering and the soft-to-touch fabric makes this easily the most comfortable blouse in this round-up. We love it.
After Ganni’s big collar blouse was an instant sell out, Arket’s crisp cotton poplin shirt was a welcome newcomer, at a fraction of the price. The sleeves balloon slightly thanks to the buttoned cuffs and the silhouette is flattering. It looks great on its own or under a cardigan – with a breadth of wardrobe possibilities, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
H&M’s new spring/summer collection is to die for – we love it all. And this blouse is no exception. While the high neck doesn’t instantly make it look hot weather friendly, the crisp cotton fabric means it’s light. The voluminous puff sleeves scream Cecilie Bahnsen. If you don’t like your blouses so capacious, this probably isn’t one for you.
The colour of this caught our eye almost instantly. The full, puffed sleeves end in cuffs and the retro-inspired silhouette and smocked waist design makes the fit a dream. Exuding Seventies style, we loved the dropped, pointed collar, which packs a punch when worn under a light jumper for a summer’s evenings. The soft to touch fabric is derived from sustainable and certified sources. If the bold pink colour is too out there, it also comes in black.
This delicate 19th century prairie-style blouse is the perfect addition to any spring/summer wardrobe. The silhouette is flattering, and the puff sleeves are subtle. Owing to its cropped cut, we’d advise pairing this with your favourite high-waisted denim jeans. While one of the more expensive blouses in this round-up, it’s made from 100 per cent cotton, that feels will see you through many seasons to come. It also comes in black – equally as timeless and romantic.
We weren’t lying when we said H&M was on point this season. Another great offering from this high-street brand is this slightly cropped fit that might not be to everyone’s taste, but it is surprisingly easy to wear, especially when paired with high waisted jeans. The concealed elasticated hems create extra volume. Made from 100 per cent cotton, it’s soft on the skin, and at under £20, it’s a steal.
A slightly different take on the trend, the one-shoulder design of this cotton blouse is the weekend-appropriate addition to our wardrobe we didn’t know we needed. The elasticated waist adds a flattering dimension, and the singular sleeve is the perfect amount of puff. Keep this showstopper for a hot summer’s evening when you’re Zooming your pals into the wee hours.
Spring brings prints aplenty – add subtle florals and French flair to your wardrobe with this blouse from Rouje. Finishing just above the elbow, the puff sleeves work to accentuate your shoulders. The soft to touch fabric was comfortable against the skin, and an extra button is included if yours inevitably pings off. This wrap style blouse feels like it was made for summer evenings in your garden. We loved the classic V-neck cut and the collar was perfectly subtle. Pair with black jeans and your favourite sandal.
Featuring a square neck, three-quarter length balloon sleeves and gathered cuffs, this trend-led piece ticks the boxes. But, a word of warning, the white cotton fabric is more seethrough than you’d expect, so we’d suggest wearing a thin cami top underneath.
With its V-neck cut and more subtle embroidered collar, this channels JW Anderson in the best way. This works well when loosely tucked into a satin midi skirt for the perfect at home date night. Finishing just above the elbow, the short puff sleeves are understated, yet still manage to pack a punch. A great fit for a shirt that costs just £20.
For the perfect high-low puff-sleeve number, that you can dress up or down, Weekday’s Flo blouse is a standout. If you’re willing to splash the cash though, we love the All Saints kimi silk blend top.