Ask Belle: Short Sleeve Shirts

Hi Belle –

I’m in quite the fashion conundrum. While cleaning out my closet (as every girl should at the end of a season), I noticed all I have is long sleeve shirts! And for this unbearably hot weather in September, I have literally nothing to wear besides my basic t-shirts.

I work in a creative office, and casual attire is not only accepted, but encouraged. Do you have any advice on what to wear?

Love the blog! – akp

Casual means different things to different people.  If you’re dissatisfied with t-shirts as work attire, what about some fun blouses?  Some prints, some fun colors, some bold textures.

Calvin Klein Abstract Print Top ($60)

Prints. I love the modern print on this Calvin Klein top.  You could wear it under a black or a white blazer, or you could pair it with a brightly colored pant.  For a more professional office, tuck it into a black pencil skirt.

If stripes are your thing, this Adrianna Papell top has a great purple print and this Mango top has a fun blue and red stripe.  I also like the blue-print on this split-neck Pleione blouse.  But my favorite is this printed Rebecca Taylor blouse on sale at Amazon.  Plus-size? This dot print blouse from Vince Camuto is a nice choice.

Otte Sophie Blouse ($185)

Colors.  Otte sells some of the best blouses of any shop around.  This shocking pink blouse or this coral blouse make a bold statement.  I also found this pale pink blouse from Dylan Grey and this pretty, peacock-teal top from Forever21.

LOFT Vine Lace Tee ($40)

Textures. This burgundy lace tee is a good transitional option for a casual office.  It might not be quite right for a professional office (unless you add a blazer or sweater), but it would be lovely for an after-work function.  It also comes in petite.

This embossed snakeskin blouse from Lord & Taylor is another option.  This emerald-green Mango blouse also has an interesting texture to it.  I adore this cream and grey textured top from House of Fraser.  And for something truly unique, have a look at this textured metallic top from Piperlime.

Need cotton?  It’s going to be tough to find this time of year.  I did locate this Anne Klein blouse with a textured sleeve, but it’s selling out quick.