How to Buy a Blouse

The blouse is a wardrobe basic for most women. It works well under suit jackets, tops tailored slacks, pairs nicely with casual and dressy skirts and even spices up plain jeans. So, how can you buy blouses that are have style, longevity, comfort and the flexibility to wear with a variety of outfits?

First, it is important to understand the options that are available when you are picking a new blouse.

The fabric of a blouse is one of the most important elements. The fabric determines not only how warm or cool the attire is, but also plays a big part in how formal the blouse appears. If you are looking for a blouse to wear under a suit, try a polished cotton poplin or a tailored rayon. Both of these breathe to keep you cool in stressful work situations, while looking crisp and clean.

If you are looking for a blouse to wear with a skirt to go out to dinner or an eveningwear blouse, consider fabrics with sheen and sparkle. Silks and satins are naturals for dressy blouses, as are those shot with metallic threads or embellished with sequins or other sparkles.

The design of your blouse is crucial since it will affect your comfort as well as the occasions for which you can wear it. Some factors to consider in choosing the style of your blouse include:

• Neckline: Is the neckline a v-neck, a scoop neck or a Chinese style? The neckline will affect the things you can wear it with. Will it work with your suit jacket? Can you wear it under a sweater? How low cut is the blouse? Blouses that reveal a lot of cleavage are appropriate for evening wear, but should not be worn at the office.
• Tailored or Feminine: A tailored blouse is most appropriate with slacks or a tailored suit. A ruffled, sheer or flowing blouse is better worn with a skirt.
• Closures: Some blouses pull over your head and require no closures. Others button up the front, back and sides while still other blouses lace or tie to close. A rare few use other closures such as frogs, zippers or snaps.
• Symmetry: If you are wearing your blouse under a suit, you probably want a symmetrical design. However, an asymmetrical blouse such as a wrap can add finesse to a less formal outfit.

Should you buy as many inexpensive blouses as there are colors of the rainbow? Or should you hold out for a designer tops? It really depends on your clothing needs.

Generally, spend money on a few high quality blouses in classic styles and neutral colors; these will be the basics of your wardrobe. You should make sure these coordinate with your suits, your favorite slacks (the ones that make you look so svelte) and your little black skirt. If you can afford blouses from name brand designers, you will most likely be pleased with your purchases.

If you also want blouses that follow the current fads, go ahead and buy a couple. However, since they will likely be out of style within a season or two, you may want to spend less on these blouses and consider them a transient part of your wardrobe.

Make sure a blouse fits well before you purchase it. The shoulders of your blouse should line up with your shoulders and it should not pull over the bust. If your blouse buttons or has another closure, it should not gap. Also think about whether you are planning to tuck in your blouse or wear it out. If you want to tuck it in, ensure it is long enough to stay in place.

Check the care label on any blouse you are considering purchasing. It is important to follow the manufacturer's care recommendations to keep it looking its best, so make sure you are able to follow those directions. For example, are you willing to pay for the expense of dry cleaning your new blouse regularly? Do you actually hand wash your delicates or do you abuse them by laundering them on the heavy cycle with your jeans?

You can buy blouses from almost every women's clothing online retailer.

• For urban chic blouses that appeal to a variety of ages and styles, check Urban Outfitters.

• Ann Taylor offers classic styles, suitable for most offices and workplaces.

• Macy's is a department store with an eclectic selection of the latest trends and styles in women's blouses.

• Ralph Lauren has a good selection of the latest styles and trends in women's blouses.

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