Smart tops

[walkingtheplank]

I'm at a loss to know what tops to buy for work situations.

I've put on a lot of weight recently so soft Jersey/ t-shirts just reveal my bulges. Tailored cotton shirts dont work because my bra straps always falls down and I get sweaty pits (lovely). Full bottoned tops tend to gape too.

So what sort of smart top should I look for which are comfortable ? I'm size 16 these days sadly.

Any tips would be great.

Bumping for anyone who has some inspiration.

Can't do a link but the Wallis utility shirts are great, they skim my bulgy bits, as they have no buttons they never gape, and they come in great colours. I like the zipped utility shirts, and they currently have money off in debenhams

Just had a look. That might work. I'm not sure about having pockets but would definitely try them on.

Soft shirts are flattering.

Have a look on Next for soft shirts or just general for utility shirts.

I'd never heard the term 'utility shirt' before this thread!

Jigsaw silk top, I have an old one of these, they do them every year in different colours and I think it's really flattering and feels smart because of the fabric but has a casual shape.

If you're on a budget peacocks is also great for work tops that are a bit different from shirts. Looking in my wardrobe I've got some utility shirts from there, some soft Jersey long sleeved tops in a purple check and a green check and some smarter jumpers for the winter

So I've been into town and tried on some utility shirts. I don't think the pockets are right for me. Seems weird to have pockets on my breasts.

Next I'll be trying the Jigsaw top as that's rather nice looking!

The Jigsaw ones are lovely, but too dressy for me for work.

Boden Ravello?

Something like this?

Or this?

Ignore the last - it has pockets!

I actually own the White Company one in 4 colours!
It actually sits very nicely but isn't a top for work as the fabric is very casual. Strangely I've not found the pocket to be problem, perhaps because there's just one of them #hypocrite

But like the Boden and Fat Face one.

Actually White Company one has 2 pockets and I've never noticed them.
I'm going mad...

I have some great tops from Uniqlo that don’t have breast pockets. Check out their shirts and blouses. Cos also can be relied upon for some non-clingy tops

I was coming on here to say Cos, then clicked on that Jigsaw link... oh my, that's going to have to go on the wish list.

I wear a lot of tunic/ shell tops for work, it's a style that makes me feel more pulled-together than a jersey tee and fitted shirts look appalling on me so they're out as well. Something without a button front and with a wider, boat or v neckline.

Someone recommended Baukjen to me recently on here for a similar issue.

There are a number of tops that might suit, though quite pricey

www.baukjen.com/collections/tops-tees/products/ophelia-tie-neck-top-blue-leopard-print