The Versatility of Blouses
A blouse is a top that’s traditionally worn by women and children. However, gender is a construct, and it’s not unheard of to see men in blouses, too.
A form-fitting, neutral-colored silk wrap-front blouse pairs well with elevated joggers and white slip-on sneakers for an off-duty look that can also be dressed up for a night out with friends.
What is a Blouse?
The blouse is a versatile garment that covers the top half of the body. It is a form of dress worn by girls and women, typically paired with skirts, trousers, blouse or sarees. A blouse can be made from a variety of fabrics including silk, cotton, and chiffon. It can be adorned with embroidery, frills, loops, or other elements that add to its beauty and uniqueness.
Blouses come in a variety of sizes. They can fit a broad range of body shapes from the slim to the voluptuous. They can be a great option for a formal event when you want to wear a long-sleeved, tuxedo-style shirt but aren’t looking for something too stiff or boxy.
Another reason why blouses are so popular is their ability to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They can be worn with jeans for a casual look or with a formal midi skirt and heels for a night out on the town.
Blouses can also be a great way to show off your style with fun details like fringe ties, puff sleeves (a hot 2021 trend), or plunging necklines. Fabrication with texture can be a wonderful addition to any blouse, from sequins to gorgeous lace, and adding a statement accessory like a bold animal print or geometric pattern can elevate your blouse in a snap.
Versatility
The versatility of a blouse is what makes it stand out from other types of dresses. A blouse can be worn during the day with a pair of jeans or shorts and a pair of sneakers for a casual look that still looks stylish in any cafe or restaurant. It can also be worn with a dark pair of pants to create a more formal outfit. It can also be worn under a sweater for cold weather or over a dress to add a layer of warmth and style.
Versatility is key in fashion to make it possible for more wear time and less indecisiveness about what to wear each morning. It helps to build a closet that is filled with pieces that can be styled in multiple ways and take you from work to dinner to brunch. Versatile clothing items are easier to move between seasons, making your closet more efficient.
The word “versatile” comes from the Latin versum, meaning “to turn.” It originally referred to the ability to change shape easily, a quality needed by soldiers for maneuvering in battle or on horseback. The word is also used in sports to describe the flexibility and ease of movement of a player. For example, a player with great versatility can switch positions and handle several different situations on the field.
Fabrication with Texture
A simple blouse doesn’t have to be boring. It can be a statement piece if you choose a beautiful fabric that shines, or it can show off details like buttons and trim. A classic button up shirt with a v-neck can be paired with a fitted skirt or tucked into jeans for a more casual look. For a blouse that can easily be dressed up or down, choose a pattern that offers a variety of neckline options like the Patina Blouse. This pattern has the option of a collared, v-neck, or a scoop neck. It also comes with both long and short sleeves with cuff and continuous bound placket options. The pattern is designed for light to mid weight woven fabrics and includes two neckline depth options.
A blouse with a shawl collar is the perfect statement piece for a summer blouse. Try the Lilian Blouse PDF pattern for a fun project that features buttons, a lovely shawl collar, and a choice of three sleeves. The pattern has both front and back darts for a fitted style, or you can skip them to create a more contemporary boxy shape.
Choose a lightweight fabric, such as cotton lawn, voile, or silk crepe de chine for the best results. Midweight fabrics will work, but they may blouse result in a slightly less drapey garment. When you lay the blouse flat, make sure the center of the front and the center of the back bodice are lined up. Then sew the side seams from the armhole edge to the hem.
Blouses can be printed to add a pop of color or pattern, making them incredibly versatile. From floral prints to contemporary lines and shapes, blouses can be printed to instantly elevate any look. Screen printing has long been a popular method for customizing uniforms and workwear, as it allows for an impressively durable print that can outlast the garment.
Historically, blouses were gathered or pleated to create a fuller look. This detail is often overlooked today, but it can be a great way to add a bit of texture or volume to the top.
Blouses are an essential part of every woman’s wardrobe. Their versatility makes them a must-have for everyone, from casual wear to office attire and formal ensembles. By following the tips we’ve provided, you can create a stylish collection of blouses for all occasions. Want to add some new tops to your closet? Take your style quiz and order a Fix today! Your stylist will pick out a wide selection of blouses and ship them to you. Plus, shipping and returns are always free!