Sure, we all know what wardrobe essentials for work professional women are supposed to have in their closets, but if you’re buying one for the first time or replacing one you’ve worn into the ground, it can be a pain to find exactly the right incarnation in stores. In “The Hunt,” we search the stores for a basic item that every woman should have.

Collared women's shirts are a classic for a reason — and whether you're on the hunt for them as Zoom tops or for basic work outfits, we haven't done a roundup in far too long.

Readers, what are your thoughts — yea or nay on collared shirts? If you're going into the office, are they part of your work outfit rotation? Are you them out for the occasional Zoom call?

In the past we've talked about important issues such as whether the collar goes out or in, what color camisole to wear beneath a white blouse, how to keep white blouses white, some DIY options for gaping blouses, when to tuck your blouse, and 10 things to know about wearing button-front blouses.

Some of the Hall of Famers we've mentioned in the past include these lovely collared shirts:

• Hall of Famers: Hugo Boss, J.Crew, Foxcroft, Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor, Universal Standard, Equipment, Tucker, Everlane
• Under $50: Amazon Essentials (2,400 good reviews), Clovery (1,600 good reviews!)
• Under $100: J.Crew, Brooks Brothers (frequent sales), Ann Taylor, Hawes & Curtis, Everlane
• Brands with interesting blouses for a splurge: Rebecca Taylor, L'Agence, Tuckernuck, Anne Fontaine, Tucker
• Iron-free: Brooks Brothers, Foxcroft, Talbots
• Organic: Eileen Fisher
• Crisp collared blouses: Hugo Boss, J.Crew, Foxcroft, Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor
• Silky collared blouses (spots to check): Equipment, Halogen, Everlane, M.M. LaFleur, Banana Republic Factory, Mango, Vince, Uniqlo, The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens, Loft, Tucker
• Jersey collared blouses (definitely more casual!): Boden, James Perse, Eileen Fisher, also check Eddie Bauer
• Bodysuits: J.Crew, Express, Amazon, Tuxe, Express, Venus (but see our whole post on the best bodysuits for work outfits!)
• For busty women: The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens, Bravissimo, Exclusively Kristen, Foxcroft
• Bespoke (custom tailored): Sumissura
• Petite options: Hotouch (bad name but #1 bestseller!), Brooks Brothers, Ann Taylor
• Tall options: Ann Taylor, Lands' End
• Maternity: Lands' End, H&M, Gap, ASOS (also check Target!)
• Plus sizes: Universal Standard, Foxcroft, NYDJ, Ralph Lauren, Lands' End

5 Best Women's Collared Blouses

Some of our favorite brands for silky collared blouses for women are below:

If you're hunting for some of the best collared shirts for women in plus sizes, many of our favorites meet the bill!

Of course, gaping can be a problem with button-front shirts. If your bust is the problem, definitely check out some of the best blouses for busty women — we've rounded up some above, but here are some pictures:

As of 2024, some great dress shirts for women with large breasts include The Shirt by Rochelle Behrens, Lands' End No-Gape shirts, eShakti's made to measure tops, Tradlands' “Boob-Gap Improving Button-Up,” and specialty stores like Exclusively Kristen, PerfectDD, and Miriam Baker.

Some of the top products to help you fix a gaping blouse include:

Readers, if you're a fan of collared shirts, which are your favorites?

Curious about older iterations of this roundup? Here they were in 2019 (modern blouses for suits), 2017 (best women's dress shirts ) 2014 (silk button-front blouses), and 2013 (crisp button-down shirts).

Like this feature? Check out other recent installments!

The post The Best and Affordable Women’s Collared Shirts appeared first on Corporette.com.

Which are the best camisoles to layer beneath sheer blouses? Is a seamless camisole important, or a nude-for-you camisole? Or is a white camisole the best thing under a white blouse?

Reader S has a question, and I thought it might be a fun topic because I've said before: I am a fan of plain, non-lacy white or black camisoles (with a nude-for-you bra) beneath sheer blouses, rather than “nude” camisoles. They make it clear to the non-fashion people you work with that it's safe to look at your blouse. A solid camisole avoids that weird Barbie look of “it's sheer and I think I see skin but there's no bra or nipple and I'm so confused…”

I also think it streamlines things in your closet, because if you need a camisole to raise the neckline of a dress, you'd want a white or black one anyway. But maybe I'm in the minority. 

{related: here are some more thoughts on sheer blouses for the office}

Here's S's question:

I recently got several lovely silk button up blouses. I love the feel and look, and the step-up in fabric. However, they are kind of sheer. I have been searching high and low, and can't find a good nude camisole that doesn't show all the straps and seams and edges under the silk, making it look cheap and not well put together. Not the look I'm going for. Why can't they make the camisole equivalent of these panties?

In addition, most of the “nude” camisoles I have found look like they're nude on a banana cream pie, but not on me. like this one (pictured below).

I'll weigh in with a few answers for S, but I'm curious to hear what readers say about this whole issue.

Seamless camisoles do exist. When we last rounded up the best camisoles for layering, many of the reader favorites were seamless, include the Shimera brand (now just sold under Nordstrom's label).

(Psst: our favorite camisoles, many of which come in white, black, or nude if that's what you want!)

Pictured above, our favorite camisoles for work: one / two / three / four (25+ different color combos in a 4 pack!)– don't forget about demi-camisoles too, such as this, this or this — or chemisettes!)

Again, I'm not a fan of a “nude” camisole, but it is refreshing to see that they at least have more than just beige (pictured at top: “tan thrush,” available during the anniversary sale for 2 for $30, or $17.50 each (normally $28). Another good one to take a look at: this “whisper tank” from Commando, a company that's one of the OGs as far as seamless thongs and briefs.

Both of these options have thicker straps, which I like because they hide your bra straps.

A few more options for you on the affordable side, both of which got shoutouts during our last discussion on favorite lingerie: Ann Taylor (you can usually get them during sitewide sales!) and Jockey.

Readers, my Googlefu is failing me — what companies cater to various shades of “nude”? There used to be a company called MySkins, which looks like it is now defunct. I found a company called Nubian Skin that has different bras, panties, and hosiery — but no camisoles. See, another reason to not like “nude” camisoles. :)

Finally, a note on the silk blouse itself, “showing all the seams and edges under the silk.” A big problem with more affordable silk blouses is that they often do show all the seams and edges of the blouse itself… if that is what Reader S meant (I can't quite figure out if she's referring to the seams of the camisole or the seams of the blouse), it may just be one of those blouses that is better for wearing beneath vests, sweaters, and more.

Ladies, what are your thoughts? Are you Team Nude Cami, or are you on my side with white camisoles beneath white blouses? Readers who like nude camisoles and other items, what are your favorite brands that “match” your skin (and what skin tone do you have)?

The post Camisoles Beneath Blouses: White or “Nude”? appeared first on Corporette.com.

Reader L wonders how to keep white blouses white, and as summer's heat is upon us I think now is a great time to discuss this…

Currently, I'm living in hot and sunny south Florida. Not to be overly gross, but my whites just do not stay as white as they should simply because of all the sweating that I do here! I know that I could go see a dermatologist or I can try a new deodorant, but that's not my question/issue.

My question is: other than bleach, what do you do to keep your whites fresh and white? It's my opinion that Florida living prevents white clothing from ever looking totally clean, and that's a total damper on a DC girl who lives an ill-fitting black/gray/blue suit and a white button-up. What do you do?

We actually have talked about the best deodorants for the working woman — but as you note, this is a different question.

{related: how to keep whites white}

How to Keep White Blouses White

The tips that I know of for keeping whites white:

a) Think about your undergarments. A white blouse frequently needs a camisole anyway (I'm a fan of the nude-for-you bra paired with a white camisole, but that's me) and so look for one that has high arm-holes — the cotton camisole will help “catch” the sweat (yes, eww, but still).

When you're laundering it,

b) Avoid the dryer at all costs. Even if the shirt says “tumble dry low,” most of the yellowing comes from the dryer — so hang your white blouses, or lay them flat to dry. If the tag says “dry clean only” or even “dry clean” (the latter of which usually means it can be washed), I'd be inclined to get the shirt dry-cleaned if you really like it.

c) Before you wash it, pretreat areas that are likely to be dirty. My husband always sprays the collars, underarms, and cuffs of his button-down shirts with Spray n' Wash before we do the laundry. I've read about a number of other solutions for cleaning whites — peroxide mixes, baking soda mixes, etc, but I've never tried them myself — readers, please weigh in!

d) If all of this still doesn't help, look into products like underarm shields. I only know about this product because a friend wanted to invent it — alas for her, a lot of companies beat her to the punch, but this is great news for white blouse wearers.

Psst: As of 2023, there are products that can help you avoid getting sweat stains on your clothing (whoa!), as well as products that help you remove them… as well as special undershirts shirts that don't stain. Some more products are pictured below…

Finally: keep in mind that while the white blouse is classic, it is by no means the only thing you can wear to look professional — check out the Corporette Guide to the Best Tops For Under Suits!

Readers, what are your tips for keeping your whites sparkling white?

Hunting for opaque white T-shirts for work? As of 2024, we'd suggest checking the double-layer lines from Boden, Express, Old Navy, and Hobbs, as well as great sources for basic Pima cotton such as L.L.Bean, Uniqlo, Everlane, Banana Republic, and Talbots. (This $268 tee also gets great reviews for opacity, and Elizabeth swears by this tee under $30!)

As of 2024, the best spots to check for nude-for-you undergarments are Gap, Old Navy, or Nubian Skin for tons of options — Victoria's Secret also has a bunch!

The post How to Keep White Blouses White appeared first on Corporette.com.

Sales of note for 7.19.24

• Nordstrom – The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now open to everybody! Here are all of our picks, and here are reader favorites.
• Ann Taylor – Semi-annual sale, extra 50% off markdowns + 20% off everything!
• Banana Republic Factory – 40-60% off everything, take an extra 20% off your purchase
• Eloquii – 50% off select styles
• Everlane – Up to 70% off
• J.Crew – End of Season Sale, extra 50% off sale styles
• J.Crew Factory – 40-60% off everything
• Lo & Sons – Summer sale, up to 50% off
• Madewell – End of season sale, up to 70% off with code.
• M.M.LaFleur – Save 25% sitewide. (Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I think this is the biggest sitewide discount I've ever seen…)
• Rothy's – Lots of great finds in the “final few” section
• Talbots – Semi-annual red door sale, extra 40% off markdowns

Some of our latest posts here at Corporette…

And some of our latest threadjacks here at Corporette (reader questions and commentary) — see more here!

Some of our latest threadjacks include:

• Is there a mantra or slogan that will help me combat imposter syndrome?
• AITA for not moving to the middle seat to be closer to my husband on a recent flight?
• What are your latest favorite nonfiction books for fans of Mary Beard?
• I'm so annoyed by people who look at their smart watches instead of paying attention to our conversation…
• Let's have a secrets thread…
• I need tips on managing employees in BigLaw who have to leave for daycare pickup…
• I'm thinking of leaning out to spend more time with my family – how can I find the perfect job for that?

The post Wednesday’s TPS Report: Big Boss Polka Dot Blouse appeared first on Corporette.com.

Sales of note for 7.19.24

• Nordstrom – The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now open to everybody! Here are all of our picks, and here are reader favorites.
• Ann Taylor – Semi-annual sale, extra 50% off markdowns + 20% off everything!
• Banana Republic Factory – 40-60% off everything, take an extra 20% off your purchase
• Eloquii – 50% off select styles
• Everlane – Up to 70% off
• J.Crew – End of Season Sale, extra 50% off sale styles
• J.Crew Factory – 40-60% off everything
• Lo & Sons – Summer sale, up to 50% off
• Madewell – End of season sale, up to 70% off with code.
• M.M.LaFleur – Save 25% sitewide. (Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I think this is the biggest sitewide discount I've ever seen…)
• Rothy's – Lots of great finds in the “final few” section
• Talbots – Semi-annual red door sale, extra 40% off markdowns

Some of our latest posts here at Corporette…

And some of our latest threadjacks here at Corporette (reader questions and commentary) — see more here!

Some of our latest threadjacks include:

• Is there a mantra or slogan that will help me combat imposter syndrome?
• AITA for not moving to the middle seat to be closer to my husband on a recent flight?
• What are your latest favorite nonfiction books for fans of Mary Beard?
• I'm so annoyed by people who look at their smart watches instead of paying attention to our conversation…
• Let's have a secrets thread…
• I need tips on managing employees in BigLaw who have to leave for daycare pickup…
• I'm thinking of leaning out to spend more time with my family – how can I find the perfect job for that?

The post Tuesday’s TPS Report: Long Sleeve Plunge Tie Collar Blouse appeared first on Corporette.com.

Sure, we all know what basics professional women are supposed to have in their closets, but if you're buying one for the first time or replacing one you've worn into the ground, it can be a pain to find exactly the right incarnation in stores. In “The Hunt,” we search the stores for a basic item that every woman should have.

Maybe it's just me, but the ruffled white blouse is everywhere this season. Yes, yes, there are lots of pirate/Labyrinth jokes to be made, but this is something that you will be seeing a ton of this summer and probably on into winter. So I thought we'd round up some of the best out there, in a range of prices. First, let's check out some of the higher-end things for inspiration:

Love the cap sleeves, close fit, and origami-like ruffles. It's available at Neiman Marcus for $890. Carolina Herrera Pleated Tie-Neck Blouse

This one has more of a Latin flamenco-dancer type feel to it — note the multiple ruffles on the placket. I like that the sleeves are kept very simple, but still wish they had given them regular cuffs. Escada White Ruffle Front Blouse, available at Bloomingdale's for $695.

I like the floaty quality to the crepe de chine here, the wispy ruffled collar, and the fact that it's both a tie and a blouse. This one was $690 at Saks, but is now on sale for $414. Oscar de la Renta Ruffle Front Sleeveless Blouse

Now for the more affordable ones — I think that in general, the more fitted the blouse is, and the “looser” the ruffles, (nothing overly crisp or clown-like) the better the blouse looks for the office. And even though I generally dislike tucking blouses, they do generally look so much better when tucked. I'd wear any of these under a blazer or even a cardigan for the office, paired with a clean, classic bottom, such as a pencil skirt or a pair of trousers. I'd avoid girly accessories and matches to this — an A-line skirt, a pink cardigan, etc. would all make it overly feminine for the office, in my opinion.

This one is nearly sold out at Neiman Marcus (sizes 10-14 are all that's left), but given the fact that it's Magaschoni and on sale that's not bad. Love the darts and the puffed shoulders, and like the crispness of the collar versus the looseness of the ruffles. Was $220, now $77. Magaschoni Ruffle-Front Cap-Sleeve Blouse

This blouse (which we've featured before in the darker print version) is gorgeous — and available in Petite and Woman sizes. I like that the ruffles go all the way down to the waistband, and like the relaxed look to the V-neck collar (although I do see a top button, so you can fasten it all the way to your neck if you desire). The slight puff to the sleeves looks lovely, also. It's $79.50 at Ralph Lauren. Loryna Cotton Ruffled Blouse

This blouse is one of my favorites, actually, even though it's more of a tan than a white. I like the small origami-type ruffles and the long cuffs, as well as the fact that the blouse is stretch. This was $99, now $59.40 at Dillards (limited sizes available). Antonio Melani “Delores” Blouse

LOFT's website is momentarily down, but I like the look of this ruffle blouse. Compared to the other blouses, this has much smaller ruffles on the collar and placket — and it's a nice way to sample the trend in a safe way. It's $44.50 at LOFT (in regular and petites). Favorite Ruffle Blouse

Finally:  I like this sleeveless number from The Limited. I like the darts and the cascading ruffles, and the round jewel neckline looks flattering and work appropriate. The blouse is $44.90 at The Limited (available in white, green, and yellow). Mixed Ruffle Sleeveless Top

Readers, which of the ruffled blouses is your favorite? (If you've seen another one that's still for sale, please share it in the comments!) What do you think of wearing them for the office?

Like this feature? Check out other recent installments!

(L-all)

The post The Hunt: White Ruffled Blouses appeared first on Corporette.com.