This week, I found myself staring into my wardrobe and thinking about tops. As a person with quite classic, minimalist taste, I struggle with tops because all I ever seem to buy are plain T-shirts, ribbed vests and button-down shirts. Don’t get me wrong—these basics form the building blocks of a strong capsule wardrobe whatever your style, and I rely on them all in varying combinations when I build my outfits each morning. But there are only so many ways you can style a white T-shirt before it becomes a bit, well, boring.
Every spring, as soon as the sun shows up and the mercury starts to rise, I start realising it’d be quite nice to have some pretty spring tops that I can wear on their own with jeans, skirts or wide-leg trousers. Ones that don’t have to also work underneath layers of knits and coats like tops do in winter. Sometimes all it takes to make a spring outfit is simply a great top that has some personality and makes the rest of your outfit—even if it consists of the most basic pair of jeans and trainers—suddenly feel like a joy to wear.
I’m determined to add some beautiful tops to my repertoire—ones that I can throw on in the morning and feel like I’ve made an effort, whether I’m working from home or the office or simply pottering around the house at the weekend. I’m sure I’m not alone in this predicament, so I took it upon myself to hunt down 25 of the best spring tops I could find that are perfect for making all your simple outfits better right now. Keep scrolling to see them all, and shop the styles you love most.
1. Floral Blouses
Style Notes: When we think spring, we think florals. It might not be groundbreaking, but it's an easy way to add interest to your outfit.
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I love the cut of this top—the flash of skin is ideal for warm weather.
You'll treasure this special blouse for years to come.
Zara is my go-to brand for affordable floral blouses that pack a stylish punch.
So elegant!
If my budget was limitless, I'd buy Doên's entire SS23 collection.
2. Crochet Tops
Style Notes: Crochet is a key fabrication for spring/summer 2023, and we think the real deal is worth spending a little more on. That said, if you're on a budget there are some great affordable options on the high street.
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Layer it over a tee now, then style it on its own once summer arrives.
I'd wear this as a top, buttoned up and tucked into jeans.
We expect this Other Stories x Sindiso Khumalo beauty to sell out fast.
An affordable way to tap into the trend.
This would work with so many looks.
3. Relaxed Shirting
Style Notes: If it seems like we regularly fall back on relaxed-fit shirts to make our outfits, that's because we do. And can you blame us? The Instagram fashion set is evidently with us on this one.
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An elevated take on the classic striped shirt.
Consider your outfit boosted.
The embroidery on this shirt is so unique—I definitely wouldn't guess it's from H&M.
Simple and versatile.
Every wardrobe needs its fuss-free foundation pieces.
4. White Blouses
Style Notes: There's something about a romantic, frill-adorned blouse that feels quite nostalgic. Especially when it's paired with blue jeans; a very Jane Birkin combination.
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Cheesecloth is one of those fabrics I always find myself drawn to come spring.
You can count on everyone asking where you got this blouse.
I was sold when I saw the covered buttons.
If you're an admirer of French style, this is your way in.
Pirate chic.
5. Crop Tops
Style Notes: Crop tops aren't just practical (no awkward bunching from tucking your top into trousers), but they're also hugely on-trend this season. Expect to see a rise in ultra-cropped tees and tanks as we head into summer.
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Imagine this with loose-fitting jeans and slingbacks on your next night out.
This baby blue shade will compliment your denim nicely.
Tick off two trends in one top.
I think we can all agree that this is a work of art.
You can buy the matching skirt here.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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