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Choosing Tops

Blouses

The word blouse most commonly refers to a woman's shirt. Blouses were rarely part of the fashionable woman's wardrobe until the 1890s. Before that time, they were occasionally popular for informal wear in styles that echoed peasant or traditional clothing.

During the later Victorian period, blouses became common for informal, practical wear. A simple blouse with a plain skirt was the standard dress for the newly expanded female (non-domestic) workforce of the 1890s, especially for those employed in office work. Through the twentieth centry blouses got more elaborate with lace and embroidery detailing, tucks and pleating, becoming immensely popular for daywear and even some informal evening wear. Since then, blouses have remained a wardrobe staple.

Blouses are often made of cotton or silk cloth and may or may not include a collar and sleeves. They are generally more tailored than simple knit tops, and containing 'feminine' details such as ruffles or embroidered decorations.

An alternative to blouses are tunics which unlike blouses are not button fastened or zip fastened but are more top-like.

Cardigans

A cardigan is a type of sweater/jumper with buttons or zips down the front; by contrast, a pullover does not open in front, but forms a solid tube around the body. The cardigan was named after James Thomas Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, a British military commander, following his service in the Crimean War. It is usually machine or hand-knitted from wool, cotton and acrylic.

Cardigans although available for both sexes are more typically worn by women. Cardigans are also popular in twee fashion (fashion inspired by Indie pop music) and are normally fashioned in button-up or tie-up styles.

Daytime Tops

Tops that are suitable for daytime wear whatever the season. With plenty of colours and styles to choose from you won't be disappointed. Keep it plain and simple with a tank , vest or t-shirt or spice it up a little with a wrap or jersey design.

Evening Tops

Whether its a romantic meal or a night out with the girls our range of evening tops will make sure his (or that guy in the bar) eyes are firmly fixed on you. Choose from luxurious silk or stylish cotton, detailed or plain. For a little extra help and definately more wow factor we would recommend a bustier and for maximum effect enhance with an underwired top.

Underwired
View our underwired evening tops

Knitwear

Need a little cover up as the summer (yeah right!) nights turn slightly colder then some stylish knitwear could be for you.

Long Sleeved

Perfect for the English summer when the sun just doesn't want to make an appearance. Choose from polo shirts, printed tops, ribbed tops or for something more enticing try a long sleeved shirt.

Summer

When the temperature is rising nicely and you can hit the beach/park/shops then stay cool in one of our summer tops. In bright vibrant colours and thin strapped designs these are sure to keep you cool whether you choose cotton or silk.

Cami tops and camisoles give the minimum of coverage and allow your shoulders, neck and arms to tan whilst you play.

If you need support in your skimpy tops then try our summer tops with integral support.

Vest