My love of fashion has always traced back to my mum. There’s no one I trust more when it comes to shopping or spotting a brilliant buy. In fact, I recently borrowed (read: stole) one of her latest chic purchases for myself, and you can imagine my surprise when I discovered it was from Next.
The item in question? A draped, off the shoulder top with a silhouette that looks far more expensive than its £32 price tag.
For far too long, my evening top collection has been seriously lacking. While the classic ‘jeans and a nice top’ formula should be easy in theory, I’ve never managed to find a top that ticks all my boxes, until now.
Friends Like These Draped Off The Shoulder Top
Here, it’s all in the draping. The top sweeps across the collarbone, leaving one shoulder uncovered, revealing just a hint of skin. So, if you’re anything like me and prefer to keep your upper arms covered, there’s no need to worry, because the sleeves have your back.
As someone with a bigger bust, however, my biggest issue when it comes to evening tops is finding styles that are genuinely flattering across the chest. Thankfully, the draping is excellent for this too. The fluid shape means it never feels too tight (or flattens your bust in the process), and avoids the tent like effect that some tops can create.
My mum opted for the pretty baby blue (which, judging by the remaining stock, is proving to be a popular choice), but there are plenty of other chic shades to choose from. If, like me, you like classics, the black and ivory are both equally as chic. But, there are brighter options, too, including cobalt blue, milky pink, grape and a rich rusty red.
It’s worth noting that the top is made from polyester, which, while not usually my first choice, has one advantage: it’s ideal for summer getaways since it won’t emerge from your suitcase creased.
Abroad, style it with your favourite pair of linen trousers, strappy sandals and a raffia bag. Equally, it works just as well for your evening soirées over here, styled with a good pair of jeans and kitten heels.
It’s a top that looks just as good in your sixties as it does in your twenties - if not better, judging by how incredible my mum looks in it.
