Which top?

[OldGrannyish]

Friend's 50th birthday. DH doesn't like one because it's too grannyish and MIL says that one is better (but then, she is a granny!)
Which is better? I prefer one over the other, but my fashion sense is questionable

Black jeans and probably a dark blue (or black?) cardigan with it

How about a camisole and a fitted blazer, something like this https://images.app.goo.gl/yAbVqZeZ5tcZy9Eh7

You are size 8 or 10 on top and can pull it off, plus as a pear you need something more fitted on the top. Both of these are what I would say are part of the everyday basics too so you would be usj g them again and again. Jigsaw do a lot of these camis in natural fabrics and different colours. You can also wear that lily silk too under the blazer and it will look smart

Don't buy from Shein.

I feel this thread has went a bit overwhelming for OP and some people quite rude.

I read a comment from someone saying this shows how different everyone is and it's so true.

I've posted several threads in the past asking what to wear with this, can I wear this with that etc, looking for validation.

I think if you prefer one over the other and already have it then that's a place to start. You want to feel comfortable and enjoy the party and not wear soemthing that will make you feel less "you".

Saying that, there's a LOT of suggestions here and I hope you get time to have a browse and see if there is anything you really like.

Good luck OP.

www.marksandspencer.com/c/women

OP @IbizaToTheNorfolkBroads posted this sparkly cotton top at 15.33 yesterday.But that green sleeveless you found was great ,especially as you're tall.

Some of the tops suggested are hideous, pussy bow blouses are office wear. Some are the most unflattering shapeless frumpy designs that even my 75 year old mother wouldn't be seen dead in.

At 41 the OP is still young, if I was her size I'd go for the blazer and cami combo that's been mentioned.

Or go with something that is your style, the 2nd top is better than the first but the first could look better on and tucked in.

I like the Oliver Bonas and Baukjen ones that were linked, they would be nice with a blazer and your heeled boots. I don't think DM's work very well with bootcut jeans.

I used to have a shirt like in your first post OP. My boss said it looked like I worked for British Airways, and after a bit of bristling on my part I had to admit he was right.

I actually quite like the first one - but it's viscose...

If op likes the tops she posted with a cardi then I can’t see her wearing a cami top.

She will be out of her comfort zone with lots of the suggestions.

I think she should just pick a normal blouse from Next or M&S!

I'm quite tempted to go for one of these and hope it gets here in time. Lily silk or This one I guess that will be the most versatile, although no idea how you choose which colour - stick to black? Or is navy more wearable?

@GonnaGetGoingReturns 😂 I wear very little colour personally but stupid rules about not wearing colours with black make me cross!

@BirdChirp Agree that DMs and bootcut jeans are an awkward combination.

@RemusLupinsBiggestGroupie why?

That silk top in black is lovely

That top is lovely, I think simple tops in natural fabrics usually look good. I think the second link you posted in dark grey would look really nice with black jeans. I’d probably add some simple jewelry and a belt too.

The Lily Silk top is lovely and classic. Doesn't need too much thinking about. Black or a neutral like oyster or grey. Buy it!

Also beginning to prefer your second top to some of the polyester horrors on this thread! May be grannyish but at least doesn't look like the plastic lace tablecloth my granny used.

@RemusLupinsBiggestGroupie why are bootcut and DM's a bad combo?

I prefer navy as I can't wear black, man people can't. Have you mentioned your colouring OP? I love navy! Great idea for a simple top that you can dress up with some earrings and nice makeup. Have a fantastic time!

some earrings and nice makeup
I don't have pierced ear and should probably admit my make up is 16 years old so any tips for a very basic, idiot proof, easy to apply make up would be appreciated.

I can't wear black, man people can't
how do you know if you can't wear black? I have mid-darkish brown hair, currently long, might get it cut starting to get grey bits. Brown eyes, pale skin.

I don't like the look of bootcut and Doc Martens. I think it's because you associate that style of boot with a tucked in trouser.

Bootleg jeans are flattering because they elongate the leg, but to do this best you need to wear a heeled boot- a western style boot or a block heeled squared toed boot looks best with bootcuts- they also work with a block-heeled sandal.

Doc Martens work best with skinny jeans, cropped loose jeans or skirts and tights.

I can’t explain very well. I just think it looks a bit clumpy and awkward. I like a block heeled boot with boot cuts. I used to wear high heeled boots with them but cba with high heels much now.

I just look completely washed out in black, fair hair, green eyes, sallowish skin. Hold navy up to your chin and then black and you'll have an idea, but your colouring is very different to mine anyway.

Wrt earrings, sorry I forgot. You could try clip ins. Make up, I'd keep it simple if you'renot a big makeup person, light eyeliner, mascara and some blusher over light base, lip gloss.

I have to say I agree with NatashaDancing about this.

I also don't think the blazer and cami option is right either. And besides, not everyone wears this combo or even owns a blazer. I know the I don't. The last time I wore a blazer was over thirty years when I was in school. Haven't worn one since.

OP, the Lilysilk cap-sleeve top you posted is great, as is the other one. (I would go for navy or the natural white, in fact, have just ordered the latter). Whichever you choose will be worn lots. Go for that and don't be distracted by some of the awful suggestions on this thread.

There are a lot of rules being stated on here as if it's gospel. The bit about doc Martens I just explained is just a personal preference. Not a rule. My 17yo dd wears her Docs with flared jeans- not my idea of a flattering and not a style I would wear- but she doesn't follow the rules (and she's actually got really cool style- much more so than her ancient mum)

Of course back and navy can look good together if done right. Of course you can wear a bright top with black bottoms- what the bloody hell else are you going to wear your emerald green shirt with? Of course ANYONE can wear black! There are too many people on here who are following rules made up by those awful colour theory companies that charge a fortune to assess your season. What bollocks!

Hallelujah