I’m guessing that long ago, white shirts were once solely the province of men. And I’m also guessing that all that changed when a woman, following romantic exertions, threw on her man’s shirt and decided it was high time to incorporate it into her wardrobe. And voilà! A love affair was born between women and crisp white shirts.
Whether you call them shirts or blouses, a white button-down is a staple in every woman’s wardrobe and more than merely practical. Think of the Victorians and the passion that a high-necked blouse hinted at, a broach fastened chastely at the neck, covering the décolletage inside. And what about the stir that Jennifer Anniston created on the cover of “Vanity Fair,” appearing in a button-down strategically opened to reveal tanned, toned skin?. I once dated a man who adored white-shirts.
A white blouse has much to recommend it, which is why most women have multiple versions—from 100 percent cotton to linen to silk—of this wardrobe staple in their closets. It’s always appropriate, even with formalwear—remember Sharon Stone at that awards show with a white blouse tied at her midriff and flowing lavender Vera Wang taffeta skirt? And nothing is as good a backdrop for chunky or distinctive jewelry as a white blouse. Need a terrific photograph for work or an online dating site? White blouses look fabulous in pictures, whether you’re aiming for a professional, sexy or playful look. This one piece of apparel does it all.
As handy and utilitarian as this wardrobe staple is, there are a few things to keep in mind with white blouses. Start by buying one that fits well. The major department stores, along with several boutiques, offer a wide selection to choose from. Make sure the buttons don’t pull across the bust, the cuffs hit you at the wrist bone and the length works with your height. Launder your blouse with care, whether you do it at home or at the dry cleaners, to keep it looking snowy; nothing spoils the look of a white blouse more than a yellow or gray tinge.
The classic white shirt and its more flamboyant detailed and embellished sister have a long (style) shelf life and are a great wardrobe investment. “This trend tends to be in style for a while,” Watkins concurs. “It’s not a fast-turn item because it’s based on a classic.”
Also see:
Black Blouses
Blouse Care
Suit Blouse
Basic Blouse |
