With discussions about TikTok potentially being banned in the U.S., many users, including myself, are anxious about losing the platform. I enjoy the app because it offers a wealth of unique information, from how to hem my pants without a tailor to tips on preventing avocados from browning. I've also learned that many people don't know what a bolero top is.
Recently, a viral TikTok video by Noah Pilato, a professional soccer player at Penn State, garnered over 10 million views, 435,000 likes, 12,000 saves, and 2600 comments. He began his clip by stating, "Someone's gotta explain these tops that women are wearing to the gym." At first, I wasn't sure where he was headed, but he continues, "It's a bodyless long-sleeve. … It's the most attractive article of… I don't even know if you can call that an article of clothing—it's the most attractive piece of cloth that I've ever seen in my entire life."
I immediately understood that the "cloth" he was referring to is what those of us in the fashion industry call a bolero. This shrug-like top was inspired by the jackets worn by matadors during bullfights in the 1800s. However, contemporary designers, particularly in the activewear sector (think Splits59, ALO, and Lululemon), have adapted these for workouts, creating stylish options that keep the arms warm without the bulk of heavier layers.
Although I had known boleros were stylish additions to workout outfits, I had never owned one, but after hearing Pilato speak highly of them, I was convinced to purchase one. Keep scrolling to see all the boleros I bookmarked and the one I ultimately decided to buy.
Shop the best bolero tops:
I'll take this entire three-piece set, please.
There are rumors that this color will be very popular this year.
The thumbholes are a game changer.
Throw this over a sports bra for your commute to Pilates.
This is a great option if you're like me and prefer your garments loose.
Boleros don't just have to be worn with athleisure. Take note of the styling here and wear yours with an LBD.
Joah Brown has such chic wardrobe basics.
Yes, this is considered a bolero too.
This also comes in gray.
-
Everywhere I Look, Fashion People Are Wearing This Chic Coat Trend With JeansIf you invest in one new trend this winter, make it this one.
-
Get Ready—This Is the Pretty Sweater Trend Everyone Will Wear With Jeans and Fur Coats Starting NowElsa Hosk knows best.
-
Every Stylish Woman Should Have This Coat Style in Her Winter WardrobeDo you own it?
-
The Under-$10 Item That Will Dominate All of Winter's Coolest OutfitsAffordable and chic.
-
How to Make a Boring Sweater Look Cooler: Buy This Pretty Under-$40 Accessories TrendOn to more interesting outfits.
-
The Key to Easy, Elegant Outfits Might Have Been Hiding in the Men's Department All AlongAccording to celebrity stylist and vintage expert Brie Welch.
-
Not a Sweater or a Blouse—This Top Trend Is the Key to Chicer Winter OutfitsAs seen on an It girl who gets it.
-
The Chicest It Girls in Paris, Germany, and NYC Are Wearing This Winter Trend With Jeans and TrousersHint: It's not a sweater, hat, or pair of gloves.
