Whether you’re about to head out for a date night, chapter meeting, or just to pick up some groceries, an off-the-shoulder top can be styled to the perfect look. These tops can be dressed up to be a sexy ensemble or dressed down for a casual but polished vibe.
Off-the-shoulder tops come in lots of different styles, including asymmetrical, Bardot, one-shoulder, drop-shoulder, and crop tops. These tops can come in t-shirt material, sweater material, structured material, flowy material, or fitted material. You can find dresses with an off-the-shoulder cut, and even some of your favorite Delta Sigma Theta shirts come in an off-the-shoulder style.
Showing some extra skin could sound intimidating in the cooler months, but off-the-shoulder looks don’t have to be reserved just for summer. Here is how you can style off-the-shoulder tops in any season.
Spring
While you can be optimistic about the weather in spring, if you choose to wear short sleeves, you still have to be practical and plan on the option to layer your outfit with a jacket or cardigan. (May we suggest the DST jacket?)
You can also opt for a longer, statement sleeve with ruffles or a bell sleeve.
In springtime, these off-the-shoulder looks pair well with denim, patterned pants, leggings, or skirts. If your top is flowy, a more fitted bottom will help keep it balanced. Finish the look with a chunky heeled sandal, block sandals, high heels, or even sneakers.
Summer
Warm weather is a great time to let your shoulders show. Any type of short-sleeved off-the-shoulder top will help keep you cool when the weather is hot.
If you have more of a pear shape, a top with ruffled sleeves can help your outfit feel balanced. Summer is a great time for these tops since you can’t easily stuff them in a jacket.
Short-sleeved off-the-shoulder tops work well with shorts, skirts, capris, or pants. An off-the-shoulder top with shorts is a perfect, breezy pair. Complete your summer look with your favorite sandal, and you’ll be ready for some sunshine.
Fall
Just like in springtime, when you know you want the option of a jacket, you will want to choose an off-the-shoulder top that is jacket friendly. If you know you won’t need to layer, you can opt for some more fun sleeves.
Skirts, denim, and pants go well with your fall off-the-shoulder look. On your feet, choose from ankle-high booties, boots, sneakers, or heels.
Winter
When you know that you will be using a jacket or other form of outerwear, choosing sleeves that are outerwear friendly will help you stay both stylish and warm. An off-the-shoulder sweater is a cute way to be both fashionable and cozy. Your favorite pair of boots will help your whole outfit go together.
Layers
You can change up the look of your top by choosing layers. For warmth, either jackets or cardigans can give you the option to warm up or cool down.
If you just want layers on your off-the-shoulder top to make a fashion statement, overalls or rompers are great ways to do just that.
The Right Bra
For a shirt that does not cover your shoulders, you might be wondering, “What about my bra?” Strapless bras are great options for tops where you don’t want any straps showing. Here are some tips to help you shop for a strapless bra:
- Be sure to try it on before you purchase it.
- Choose a bra that fits snugly but is not too tight.
- When you move around, the bra should remain in place without slipping down or sliding up.
- Between the two cups, that section of the bra should remain flat against your body.
- Choose between a bandeau or a wired strapless bra.
- Wired strapless bra: similar to a typically wired bra, just without the straps.
- Bandeau: a bra that is like an elastic band around the chest area.
You will probably find yourself with a preference for one or the other. Bandeau fans appreciate how easy they stay in place, while wired strapless bra fans find bandeaus too constricting.
If a strapless bra isn’t your style, a bralette or tank top underneath your off-the-shoulder top can give your top a different look (and hide your bra straps while you’re at it).
Tips for Success
If you are worried about your top revealing a little more than your shoulder, dress tape can come in handy and help your top stay in place so you can flaunt it without the fear of falling out. Off-the-shoulder tops with elastic can also help keep the top covering what you’d like to keep covered.
Watch out, world; you’re now ready to rock off-the-shoulder looks all year long.
Infographic
Off-the-shoulder tops are versatile year-round choices. Spring involves layering with short-sleeved tops. Summer showcases breezy options. Fall encourages layering or elaborate sleeves. Winter pairs off-the-shoulder sweaters with boots. Layering and the right bra are crucial. Consider dress tape or elastic for security to confidently wear these tops year-round.
