Ask Belle: Machine Washable Tops
Jun 1, 2015
Dear Belle,
My office has morphed into a swampy mess (apparently Wisconsinites haven’t heard of air conditioning). Can you suggest some machine-washable blouses, preferably with short sleeves?
Yours truly,
Master of Dressing for the Polar Vortex
Finding machine washable clothing is tough. Lifehacker offers some tips on how to wash clothes meant for the dry cleaner. But if you’re certain you want something machine washable, here are a few short-sleeve tops that fit the bill.
Michael Michael Kors Short Sleeve Top ($89)
Vince Camuto Graphic Top ($59)
Style & Co. Lace Inset Top ($25)
Plus-size ladies should have a look at this Alfani short-sleeve top and this Style & Co. Floral Top. Petite ladies try this Karen Scott Top or this Lauren Ralph Lauren lace-sleeve top.
Banana and Ann Taylor both carry a reasonable number of machine washable blouses and work tops. I’ve gotten multiple ones that I really like from Ann Taylor this year.
I machine wash and air dry all my polyester tops for the DC summer swamp. Works like a charm. Just don’t pay too much for polyester! In my book $50 MAX.
I live in a swampy place as well and I don’t go near poly or poly blends with a ten foot pole…I’m a sweaty, pity mess in poly. I’m a believer in linen and silk for summer, and there’s some really nicely priced options for blouses in both fabrics (and can be found in consignment and thrift stores for even cheaper).