When was the last time you wore a blouse? Not a pullover tunic or a stretchy top, but a real blouse. A delicate, silky top. One with ruffles down the front or at the cuff. In a soft, silky fabric. A blouse with soft color, bold pattern or gentle pleating. A top that begs that a camisole and a pretty bra be worn underneath.
This onetime closet staple is one of the key investments you can make to transform your fall wardrobe into a more dressed-up look.
It’s hard to believe that the blouse had become obsolete for half a decade while everyone embraced the utilitarian look of casual dressing. And could it really be that some teens have never worn a blouse because they grew up during those pared-down years? As one merchandiser said in Women’s Wear Daily, the fashion trade publication: “Young customers are just starting to understand blouses.”
Actually, it’s just not teens who will have to understand blouses. Women also must reacquaint themselves with blouses as they work to integrate them with pants, skirts and dressy suits in a very un-uniform way.
Department stores that once had blouse sections (Bloomingdale’s, for example, closed its blouse section six years ago but is stocking up again) are going all out to make investments in pretty blouses.
Just goes to show there’s no denying the comeback power of a good idea.
