A Nonbasic Blouse Is the One Piece Everyone Needs This Spring

are staples in any model-off-duty look. Extra long tops are getting as much love as crop tops. And hoodies have continued to convert diehard fashion sweatshirt fans. For Spring 2018, it’s all about the blouse. Blouses have shed their business overtones and gotten bold makeovers, making them one of the hottest pieces of the season.

White blouse at Palmer Harding Spring 2018; Image: Imaxtree

So we’re clear, a blouse is defined as a loose-fighting garment resembling a shirt, typically with a collar, sleeves and buttons. It is generally made out of a lightweight fabric like cotton, silk or polyester. Thinking about a classic blouse, most people envision a crisp-yet-corporate-looking button-down shirt with a pointed collar and a slim-yet-not-tight silhouette. It’s a polished wardrobe staple, but it’s not exactly the first piece we gravitate toward when we want to create a standout lewk. That’s about to change, thanks to Spring 2018’s offerings.

Striped blouse at Palmer Harding Spring 2018; Image: Imaxtree

As evidenced by the runways, designers took the definition of a blouse as merely a suggestion and we were treated to some vastly different incarnations. For the most part, light fabrics and sleeves remained, but buttons and shirt collars were optional.

white blouse Street style look at Copenhagen Spring 2018 Fashion Week — Street style look at Copenhagen Spring 2018 Fashion Week; Image: Imaxtree

Palmer Harding provided ample inspiration with unique blouse after unique blouse. There was everything from layered styles to diagonal hems to sculptural sleeves with gathers and cording. Christian Siriano, Mulberry, Victoria Beckham and Eudon Choi also made commendable efforts toward expanding our definition of a blouse. Overall, the message at fashion month was clear: today’s blouses are unique and have major fashion appeal. Ahead, shop 16 upgraded blouses to add to your spring wardrobe.

[ Next: 13 Spring Jackets You Won’t Want to Take Off (Even in Summer) ]

Non-Basic Blouses Are the Piece to Add to Your Spring Wardrobe

Topshop

Puff Sleeve Blouse by Boutique, $130 at Topshop
Parker

Erin Off the Shoulder Silk Blouse, $258 at Nordstrom
& Other Stories

Bell Sleeve Blouse, $65 at & Other Stories
Eloquii

V-Neck Bow Blouse With Cascading Ruffle, $69.90 at Eloquii
Free People

Say You Love Me Blouse, $88 at Free People
Side Party

Skin Deep Tie-Front Blouse, $89 at Urban Outfitters
Boohoo

Floral Button Detail Peplum Blouse, $28 at ASOS
Lovers + Friends

Rachel Blouse, $138 at Revolve
RIXO London

Angie Pussy-Bow Floral-Print Silk Crepe de Chine Blouse, $265 at Net-a-Porter
H&M

Flounced Cotton Blouse, $24.99 at H&M
Sandro

Crop Lace Blouse, $340 at Nordstrom
Fashion Union Plus

Wrap Front Shirt With Ruffle Layer in Broderie, $18 at ASOS
ModCloth

Style Study Collared Blouse, $55 at ModCloth
Missguided

Black Striped One Shoulder Flute Sleeve Blouse, $43 at Missguided
River Island

Pink Jacquard Cold Shoulder Wrap Front Blouse, $76 at River Island
Boohoo

Bethany Tie Front Ruffle Woven Blouse, $17 at Boohoo
Opening Ceremony

Marble Print Ruffle Blouse, $350 at Nordstrom
Ganni

Charron Crop Top, $190 at Farfetch
Zara

Asymmetric Satin Blouse, $45.90 at Zara
Alice McCall

I Want You Back Blouse, $320 at Alice McCall
For Love & Lemons

Vera Tailored Cotton Blouse, $117 at For Love & Lemons
Comme des Garçons

Angel Wing Top, $388 at Nordstrom
Frame

Lace Up Long Sleeve, $299 at Frame
Caroline Constas

Ali Layered Blouse, $299 at Intermix
J.O.A.

Navy Stripe Blouse, $78 at Shopbop