The Problem with Tunics No One Talks About
Long tops for older ladies have been a closet comfort zone for decades—and for good reason. They’re forgiving, familiar, and let us wear leggings without feeling like we’re headed to a spin class. They cover the tummy, skim the hips, and don’t cling in unkind places. Honestly, what’s not to like?
Well… while they feel easy, they don’t always look easy or flattering. Most of them blur your shape entirely, making you look shorter and wider than you are.
But I get the appeal. Long tops still have a place in many wardrobes, including mine. So if you’re reaching for them because they’re familiar, not flattering, let’s talk about how to wear them in a more modern, intentional way so they actually work for you, not just on you.
Why Women Love Tunics
Tunics became the go-to when clothing started getting tighter and shorter. They felt like a sigh of relief. You could slip one on, get coverage where you wanted it, and feel safe from waistbands that dug or tops that rode up.
But what feels comforting in theory can look heavy in practice. Tunics and long sweaters often add bulk instead of skimming over it. They throw off proportions and erase your natural shape. Even a beautiful fabric can look dated when the length is wrong or the cut is too boxy.
The longer the top, the shorter your legs appear. Pair it with leggings and the whole outfit can start to feel unbalanced. Instead of looking relaxed and confident, you end up looking smaller on top and wider through the middle.
Why Long Sweaters Fall into the Same Trap
Long sweaters are really just tunics in disguise. They sound cozy and forgiving, and they can be, but the same rules apply.
A long sweater that is too heavy or too long will pull your shape downward. The best ones have side slits, a belt, or a bit of movement through the fabric. They need to skim your body, not engulf it.
Tips for Wearing Tunics and Long Tops
If you have worn tunics for years and do not feel ready to give them up, try modernizing the silhouette.
Shorter lengths, stepped hems, or styles with side vents can all help. Stick with neutral tones or soft textures instead of busy patterns. Choose fabrics that move with you, not ones that hang stiffly. Soft knits, fine cotton, or lightweight blends are your best bet.
Keep the length near mid-thigh or a touch shorter so your legs do not vanish. Balance a long or loose top with slim, structured pants or jeans. A bit of shape on the bottom keeps the whole outfit from feeling heavy.
The Best Tunics and Long Tops If You Are Going to Wear Them
Wearever Buttoned-Shoulder Ottoman Top
The grey tunic hits at the upper thigh, which is long enough to cover the hips but not so long that it drags the eye down. This is a flattering length as long as it skims instead of clings. A tunic should pass the “skimming test,” meaning it should float past the hip, not grab or cut across your widest spot.
The crew neckline makes it feel a bit blocky, so a scarf or long necklace would help to break up the look. The 3/4 sleeves help improve its proportions.
Textured Johnny-Collar Sweater Tunic
Textured Johnny-Collar Sweater Tunic
This one looks like an easy option for anyone who loves a tunic but wants it to feel a little more modern. The open Johnny collar adds some structure near the face, which keeps it from looking too plain. The textured knit gives it interest without adding bulk.
Cotton & Recycled Cashmere Turtleneck Long Top
Cotton & Recycled Cashmere Turtleneck Long Top
This one has the right idea. The cotton-cashmere blend looks soft and fluid, which helps it drape rather than hang. The turtleneck gives a clean, refined neckline, and the longer length would pair nicely with slim pants or leggings.
No Iron™ Pocketed Tunic
If you like a crisp, tailored look without the upkeep, this no-iron tunic could be an easy win. The optic white is classic and bright, the Chianti has a deep, sophisticated tone for fall, and the black is a simple wardrobe workhorse. The structured fabric keeps its shape and gives polish, but I would keep the styling relaxed with the collar open, sleeves pushed up, and paired with slim trousers or dark jeans so it feels modern rather than buttoned up.
SHIRLEY Oversized Button-Up Shirt
SHIRLEY Oversized Button-Up Shirt
This shirt shows how comfort can still look refined. The Italian flannel has a soft, brushed finish that gives it warmth without weight, and the cream and camel plaid feels quietly sophisticated. I like how they styled it here, layered under a chunky cable cardigan with ivory jeans and suede boots.
Long Sleeve V-Neck Tunic Top
This tunic does what a lot of others try to do but rarely manage. The black gives it a slimming, column effect, while the V-neck keeps the focus near your face instead of your middle. The fabric looks light enough to drape nicely, which makes it easier to style.
Women’s Long Sleeve Waffle Cowl Neck Tunic
Women’s Long Sleeve Waffle Cowl Neck Tunic
This tunic has that cozy, off-duty feel that makes Lands’ End so dependable. The waffle texture gives it some personality, and the cowl neck adds softness near the face, which helps balance the longer length. It does come in a variety of colors like raspberry, olive, and then neutrals.
Ultrasoft Knit Tunic
There are plenty of athletic-style tunics out there right now, and most of them look like they belong at the gym. This one doesn’t. The fabric looks smooth and refined, and the brown gives it a warmer, more elevated feel than the usual black or gray. It is relaxed without reading sloppy, which makes it an easy option for travel or errands when you want comfort.
How to Style Tunics and Long Tops in 2025
With Slim Pants or Leggings
Still the easiest way to wear them. The key is making sure your leggings look like pants. I would suggest a pair of ponte or knit pants.
With Straight-Leg Jeans
This feels fresher than it used to, especially with a half-tuck or French tuck in front. It keeps things relaxed but adds shape.
Under a Short Jacket
I love a cropped jacket or blazer over a tunic. It defines the shoulder and brings structure back to the outfit.
With Long Necklaces or Scarves
Anything that draws the eye up and down helps. A simple pendant or a lightweight scarf can elongate your frame without adding bulk.
How to Style Long Sweaters Without Looking Heavy
Long sweaters can still work, but only if they move with you. The ones that hang stiffly tend to make you look weighed down, and that is never flattering.
I look for sweaters that skim and swing a little when I walk. A fine knit, an open front, or a subtle belt helps keep the shape defined. What you wear underneath matters too. A slim base in one color creates a long line that keeps everything looking balanced.
If your sweater feels bulky, roll the sleeves, add a bit of structure with a sleek bag, or leave it open to show more of your outfit.
Modern Alternatives to Tunics
Instead of long tops, I reach for pieces that skim the body and highlight proportion.
A hip-length blouse with structure can define your shape without clinging. A cropped cardigan over a longer shirt gives balance without bulk. A lightweight sweater tucked slightly in front can lengthen your legs instead of shortening them.
These small shifts make a big difference. You will still get comfort, but the look feels sharper and more current.
Something to think about:
I know many women still love their tunics, and if you feel good in them, that’s what matters most. My goal isn’t to talk you out of anything…it’s to help you notice what truly flatters you, and what might be quietly working against you.
If you put one on and something feels a little off, don’t ignore that feeling. That’s your style instinct speaking. Clothes should move with you, not hide you. When the proportions are right, you feel more like yourself—taller, lighter, and quietly confident, without fussing in the mirror.
So now I’m curious…
Are tunics and long tops still part of your wardrobe, or have you started to leave them behind?
Want More Style Advice?
If this was helpful, you might also enjoy these related posts:
- Style Rules to Live By After 60
- The Keys to Looking Good Every Day
- How to Tell If Your Clothes Do Not Fit
You can also browse all of my Style Tips here for more posts on proportion, shape, and easy ways to look modern at any age.
Thanks for reading, and remember to wear what makes you feel confident.
Yes I still wear tunics because I definitely have a pear shape that I hate! Your article was very helpful re material, lengths etc. You look great in your tunic photos. Thanks so much!
Jennifer tall girls can kill-it in the right tunic, but I have reconciled myself to wearing tailored clothes with proportional sweaters as tops which skim the waist but don’t go below the hip crest…I’m only 4’10” and 87 lbs. otherwise I look like a child playing in moms’ s clothes🤣
I love columns of color to lengthen my height needs added contrast with short sleeveless vests, loose belts or scarfs, minimalist hoop earrings annd medium silver statement necklaces. The boatneck necklines allow my neck to appear longer. Love the superb advice on tunics!
Sandra Winfield
Very helpful post. I have to admit that tunics are all you say they are. They’re like comfort food for our fluctuating waist and tummy line.
I’m eyeing the button shoulder tunic from J. Jill. Very cute and it looks nice on you. Thanks for trying things on for us!
I love the longer tops and “tunics” that cover the crotch in front since I wear mostly skinnies/jeggings. Sorry, the wider pants swallow me up with my narrow hips and make my butt look smaller and flatter. I also still love and wear long cardigans and duster cardigans but keep the top underneath sleek. The style points you brought up are what I follow to keep it updated. By the way, I still see plenty of women – young to old – wear skinnies/jeggings. To each his own…
Still wear tunics and slim pants and tights. I am short and old, but love the look.
I have lots of tunics and long tops. I have been thinking for awhile that my wardrobe needs a refresh, and now I know a place to start weeding out. Thanks!
(What’s funny is that even though I can recognize an outdated silhouette in the abstract, I find it very difficult to get used to new silhouettes on myself.)
I wore my last tunic in the 90’s over slim pants and ankle scrunched boots. Now I tuck in, or buy high hip length sweaters.
Nope! I am short and never really liked them since they threw my proportions off. I wasn’t crazy about leggings either.
I was so happy to read this today. I’m tall, narrow, relatively slim, and since menopause unhappily very busty. If I wear untucked shorter tops, they stick out in front and make me look pregnant. At 73, that is not a good look! High low hems exacerbate this effect and I avoid them like the plague. I don’t want to always wear tucked tops and I rely on longer tops that are cut closer to the body. Those types of tops, plus a straight leg pant is the outfit that flatters me most.
I do everything I can to deemphasize my bosom—it’s not easy. I wear v or scoop neck necklines, which are getting harder to find. I always wear darker tops. I would love to wear a crisp white shirt, but that just doesn’t work with my body type. I have trouble with true tunics because they’re frequently cut very wide at the bottom. Like you, I’m slim hipped. On me, many tunics look like short, flouncy dresses. Argh!
We come in all shapes and sizes. Some of us really need longer tops. Sometimes I feel very restricted by what flatters me. Your blog has been essential to me and has carried me through my working years into my retirement.
I stopped wearing longer tops after I gained weight. The fabric over my hips and butt seemed to emphasize the extra weightI I’m carrying at this time. I now make sure all my tops do not coming over my backside. Plus, that length seems to work better with straight leg jeans. I don’t wear leggings so no need for that length of a top.
I like tunic tops as shirts, like the no iron one you showed. I also love the grey/ neutral outfit. Except for the turtleneck, I’d wear it. Knits with round necks are less forgiving in me, so tunics must have a vee neckline.
Your hair looks great! Love the cut!
Excellent observations. I bought a tunic and leggings about 10 or 12 years ago. Wore them once and realized it was not a good look. I don’t think its a very good look on anyone other than women who are very tall and very thin. I can see how a tunic might be cozy for loungewear though. I have one long sweater that I almost immediately regretted. I wear it around the house when I’m chilly but wouldn’t wear it anywhere else. I’m 5’3″ and thrilled that finally shorter jackets and sweaters are everywhere.
Great advice. Tunic tops are not always flattering. I have a few J Jill Wearever tops I wouldn’t consider the tunics, but they fall nicely at the hips. This provides more coverage without being to too long, as some tunics can be.
I am totally tired of tunic length. They do not flatter me at all. I want a top that looks neat untucked and for me that sweet spot is about 23″ from shoulder to hem. (I’m 5’6″) Not an easy find, and would love for you to search some out.
That we are all so different is what makes the world go round! I too have a short torso and very long legs for someone only 5’3″, plus I like heels on my shoes and seldom wear flats. Tunics definitely have their place in my wardrobe and sometimes, it’s all with how you style them with accessories (I own tons of long necklaces and scarves too) that make them look best. I would love it if you did a segment on us short-waisted gals who find it increasingly hard to find stylish clothing, (other than petites that most people don’t carry). I can’t afford to have tops totally reconstructed, it’s like I need to raise the shoulders about 6″ higher to have it look right, LOL. Thank you for all your advice, I always look forward to your posts.
I determined some time back that a tunic wasn’t the best idea for me, but I found that getting the petite size made a difference. The movement of the fabric is another important element. Since I have been lately spending more time in the wheelchair, I find shorter styles more flattering and comfortable. We seldom talk about how an outfit looks on someone sitting down.
Your hair looks great. I’m jealous of the color. Thanks for he tips.
Thanks!
I agree, tunics can add weight and to me can be slightly frumpy. I avoid, them, I have big enough hips without help. I do like a well fitted tee, and a cardigan. The last pic of you I love, the sweater texture and the mono-look , it’s gorgeous and not dull. I’m going to re-look at my closet. Think I have similar elements to put that look together…..so happy that cooler weather is back…
I’m not feeling tunics currently for me, but on others they can be very flattering. They make my short legs look even shorter giving an unflattering top heavy proportion resulting in a very wide and dowdy appearance.
I have stopped wearing leggings so most of my tunic tops are gone. I am only 5’1” tall, wide shoulders, waist that has fluffed out to only five inches less than my hips, slim hips and thighs and short legs with a 27-28” inseam. I like and wear my tops out and like them just to the top of my hips, never tucked, skim my waist but don’t like the tight rib knits out there. They show every lump. I wear straight leg jeans and ponte knit pants with a slim leg or I like wide leg jeans with a trouser style leg. Chicos, Liz Claiborne and Gloria Vanderbilt pants and jeans seem to accommodate my fluffy waist and still fit my hips and legs without looking like jodhpurs.
I prefer not to wear tunics .. at 5’3″ I feel I can’t carry off the proportions for all the issues you mention. But I find it very difficult to find tops that don’t feel too long and oversized, even when shopping petite sizes. Do you find certain brands that are making more tops that have slimmer and shorter proportions?
I love tunics, at least partly because (if the fit is correct on me), they skim over that bothersome tummy of mine. AND cover up the tight button at the top of my jeans! (!)
I appreciate your showing all of these tunics, since lately I hadn’t found many in my own searches. I really like many of those you’ve posted (the Land’s End one in teal will be mine soon) as well as your styling tips that I’ve found myself, but just needed some confirmation of: elongation with scarves or necklace, and narrow(er) bottoms, but not skin-tight.
Any thoughts on using a belt on a long tunic that is not too bulky, and can be bloused a little? Thanks for your posts.
I like belts over tunics personally.
Yes! I love tunics. So thanks for this article. I recently found a tunic at Nordstrom Rack that checks all the boxes you mention in what to look for in an updated vibe…a lovely knit with movement, longer hem in back etc. I would love to see some tunics styled with pendant necklaces and scarves. Speaking of scarves. They used to be a mainstay of my wardrobe and I still love them but not sure how to wear them updated. Maybe you did an article on this but if so, I missed it. Thank you !
I adore scarves. I’ll write a new post on them.
In my most recent closet purge, I tossed nearly all tunics and most leggings. While my figure shows my age, it was apparent that tunics aren’t my friend. I’m short waisted too, so that made me look even more out of balance. I decided to work more on a flattering fit and it is possible.
This post is so timely for me! You’ve convinced me to get rid of some of my longer tunic tops. Honestly, I loved tunics when they were at the height of popularity because they hid my “middle-aged middle section” so well and they are comfortable. I still struggle with tucking my sweaters as the proportions just don’t feel right to me. I am now drawn to hip-length sweaters and tops and I am returning to some of your recent posts for inspiration. If you find some additional ones you love, please share!
I will!
I’m starting to leave them behind, even though I still wear leggings for lounging and for a quick errand. I have those Wearever knit “jeans” (really just pants) in three colors, and I wear those with longer tops (and everything else). I’m still wearing what I have, but looking for alternatives, such as oversized shirts worn open, and I do the longer tee -not as long as a tunic- under a shorter denim or cotton jacket. I also got rid of my long cardigans, because I felt at 5’5” they made me look dumpy, and I found outerwear hard to style with them. This was an excellent post; you do a great job of exposing the “why” of fashion.
Thanks, Jennifer, for the tunics topical article. It hits right on the mark! I like tunics, but generally find myself altering them if I can’t find one in a petite length (even though I’m not petite). I’ve been sewing all my life, so it’s not a problem to not only take up the length, but also put darts in the back to give some shape as well as longer slits on the sides to prevent boxiness and a frumpy look. A V-neck helps a lot, too, when creating a look of a longer neck and in general a taller, slimmer appearance altogether.
It’s so hard to judge the eight of a tunic when shopping online. It may not look super long, but I try to remind myself the model is probably 5’9” or 5’10”.
I loved them for YEARS and then one day I realized that they weren’t doing what I thought they were doing. Instead, they were doing all the things I didn’t want- clinging, rendering me blobby and shapeless and ultimately frumpy, working against me. They had been such a false comfort, and I wasn’t fooling anyone. I got rid of ALL things tunic- sweaters, knits, wovens- and instead found things that brought me into proportion and were still comfy. Pay attention to that little voice, it never steers you wrong! Great article and thank you for what I’m sure will be a controversial take!
I expect it will. Thanks for sharing your experience Sheila.
You really showed how tunics can work. I kind of gave up on them. Being short and petite it’s hard to find ones that aren’t too big. I’ve been wearing shorter sweaters and tops. I like half tucking or the French tuck. I love the shorter cardigans out now. You looked really pretty in your longer cardigan outfit.
While I do have a few tunic tops, I wear them mostly for working out, but I usually opt for nice joggers or wide leg yoga pants with a tucked in tee. Otherwise, I really prefer to wear nice pants with tucked in tops and sweaters or jackets. I see so many ladies where I live who wear nothing but tunics over pants and it seems like that is their uniform.
It’s very popular which is why I thought this post might be helpful.
These are all great tips. I am petite and rarely wear tunics — and a great pair of leggings makes all the difference. I also think that tunics should be tried on with a 3-way mirror. When I was pregant with my second child, I complained about how heavy I looked from the side. My husband responded with, ‘You should see yourself from the back.” This was hardly a tactful remark, but it did help me layer a little better.
Totally agree about the three way mirror Maeve!
Hi Jennifer,
I like tunics, but opt for those that come in petite sizing. (I’m 5”3”) Us shorter gals can be swallowed up in a regular size. If they’re too long they seem to emphasize, rather than minimize, your less desirable traits. 😙
Susan
A couple more variables that I have observed both in myself and in others: 1) shoulder and neckline fit, and 2) straight side seams v. a slight swing or taper out. As a psychologist (71, retired 3 years ago) who tended to have a lot of older female clients, I noticed that a lot of them wore what I thought of as “gappy neck tops.” Bad look, especially in a v or scoop neck. (I didn’t let this observation detract from the therapy, though!). I think they bought their tops big enough to cover “the roll,” but this left them with too much though the shoulders and a large area exposed at the neckline. That is not the most attractive area on most older women–wrinkles, skin tags, etc. So I started looking for tops that fit in the shoulders, had a narrower neck opening for a v-neck, and tapered out–or had pleats or gathers in the back. Or a button-up with pleats or gathering in the back. My build is straight, but with a slight roll that is visible above the waistline of pants. Being straight, I have avoided elastic waists because another thing that spoils a look is constantly yanking my pants up. I think if I had more of a waist, this would be less necessary. Anyway, I wear mostly conventional waist pants and, if there is too much stretch in them, a belt. This leaves hardware at the front which is visible under a lot of tops. I totally agree with the stepped hem and side slit suggestions. They can be hard to find, though! Front tucks look good on me from the front, but if I turn sideways it is bad, bad, bad! Unless I can wear a jacket or vest. Another thing I avoid in tops is ribs. Okay on the sleeves, but ribbed knit seems to suck itself up against “the roll.” Thanks for covering a great topic, and confirming many of my hunches!
Good morning, Jennifer. What a timely post! I am going through my closet to remove all the clothes that are now too large after losing 32 pounds over the past 2-1/2 years. I love my tunics long tops, but I have to admit that there have been several lurking unworn in the back corner of the closet. As I put them in the “donate this” pile, I noticed that they all are of heavier/stiffer fabric. All the ones that went into the “alter this to fit” pile are lightweight, flowy, and soft with a few exceptions. I have 3 tunic blouses that are constructed similarly to the Pocketed No-Iron Pocketed Tunic you shared that I will only get rid of when the fabric itself gives out because they are so flattering and comfortable to wear.
Also, side vents definitely make a difference, just make sure they are long enough to let a nice amount of your trouser show as you move. It will make you look taller. I recommend a vent height no higher than 6″ to 8″ below your lower hip. Too high and the fabric will get out of control in breezy conditions or could get caught in your car door. Too low, and your walking stride may be impinged on and you’ll miss out on the vertical lengthening effect.
For fall I like to wear knit tunics and long cardigans made from soft drapey fabrics like lightweight cashmere, cashmere blends, and eco-friendly jerseys. In winter I like a heavier weight for warmth but the fabric must still be soft to flow over my shape. In the spring I bring out the georgette, silk charmeuse, and soft cottons with some of the lightweight ones from fall. Summer is when I indulge in silk charmeuse, georgette, and chiffons. My most complemented (and comfortable) tunic-based outfit is a soft coral-colored sleeveless tunic top and matching trousers of georgette overlaid with chiffon and a collarless long sleeved chiffon coat that hangs to about 4″ above my knees. The front opening of the coat is curved, which makes it drape in descending ripples. The coat is full enough at the hem to not require side vents and it floats elegantly in my wake as I walk. The outfit has no trim of any kind so it can set off a complementary scarf, a statement necklace and earrings, a hat, or a fabric flower corsage pin. If anyone wants to get an idea of what I’m talking about, you can visit http://www.jjshouse.com and do a search for pants suits in the mother of the bride section.
I’m sure you can tell that I have made the tunic look my daily style by now. LOL!
I hope everyone has a good day and are well.
Christine A.
Thanks Christine! You too.
I have actually sent several down the road recently. I still like my crisp white shirt and another tunic shirt that is black with olive polka dots. I prefer my sweaters at high hip length. I also kept a couple of tunics for exercise class.
I loved this column. I have some tunics in my wardrobe. However, I also donated quite a few recently — for the reasons you noted. Thank you for such a helpful topic!
Absolutely not. I have a long torso with short arms and legs. Long over short or regular length just looks terrible on me. You couldn’t bury me in a tunic and cropped pants. Or even full length pants. In fact, that combination looks pretty unflattering on most people. Unless one is tall and slim and I’m not enough of either. I can understand the comfort, but leave the house in that look – no way. I’m 68 and if I ever open the door in that outfit, I’m ill. Take me to a doc.
Lol!
I like longer tops rather than a tunic. I am 5’2″. and most tops are long on me, unless I buy petite. I am currently wearing tops with slim pants , not leggings, and not tunics.
Remember the company Covered Perfectly? I still have two tunics from them. They have a shape like the No Iron tunic you show here. I loved them and still love them, but no longer wear them. They feel really dated to me. I have a thick waist and a belly, even at my lowest weight. I’ve done Pilates 3 times a week for a decade and I have strong deep abs, yet I still have a belly. It’s time for me to move these tops along and your post today has helped me make that decision.
Just read your tunic post. It was just what I needed. I’m 5’3” and 140 lbs. and used to love tunics, but I’m now sick of leggings so I have several straight leg jeans and pants and some wide or flare. No tunics with those, and so Im shopping for some shorter tops, but still love some of the tunics and longer tops. So I love your hints and styling suggestions in this post.
Your last picture with the turtle neck and long sweater is the most beautiful of all the pictures of you, and your hair is great! But no references on how to buy??
That’s from an Eileen Fisher try on and is old out. Sorry
Excellent post Jennifer! I don’t wear tunics but a lot of women my age do. This post shows how to look stylish in a tunic.
That was my wardrobe in the 20-teens. Now they are gone. Going with what’s in style. Jeans and shorter tops, bell bottoms or straight leg, not skinny. There’s some great straight or bell bottom pull on pants at the athletic stores.
I am not a fan of long tunic tops. I’m 5’4″ so not tall but short waisted. I find if I wear a lightweight crew neck sweater with long sleeves that covers my waistline and a bit of tummy then that is the right fit for me. Even better if the sweater has a bit of a waist hem that does not swing out. I wear this both summer and winter. I usually wear Eileen Fisher pants so they are slim but not tight.
They are a staple in my wardrobe. Thanks for the tips, I’ll definitely keep my eyes open.
Jennifer, everything you said about tunics is so appropriate for me because I am 5’1″ and although I love wearing tunics while lounging around the house, I have stopped wearing them in my regular outfits because they make me look so short! With your guidance, I have begun to wear more cropped tops & jackets. This has resulted in improved proportions and nicer looking outfits. Thank you!
P.S. This change was not easy to do. It took multiples attempts before I stopped buying new tunics every season. It appears that habits die hard.
Thank you for these tips! I have struggled with tunic tops as I’m only 5’4” and they almost always hit at the widest part of my hip. I won’t give up on them now, I’ll just keep your suggestions in mind.
Jennifer, you’re saying what needs to be said. In 2025, nothing looks more dated or “old lady” than a tunic. I get it, we want to hide what we don’t like, so body positivity is an element of it. I’m petite, and I realized all of that fabric just overwhelmed me. I’ve even put away my long cardigans and duster type sweaters. I think the return of old school preppy/old money is the way. You can look crisp and modern (with wider leg bottoms, it’s not 1983) and still be covered. I’ve gone back to my roots with classic cardigans and polo collars (all end at waist or high hip), loafers, and blazers-all in my seasonal colors. I don’t care for the oversized stuff except for the wider, looser jeans. I need them to fit at the waist, and not have too much volume, but the new softer and looser fabrics are really comfy. Ladies, if you want to modernize you have to get beyond J Jill and Talbots, and be choosy at Eileen Fisher.
Excellent points! At what stores do you find the best selections?
I am short waisted and with a small frame. Because I am so short-waisted, tunics hang extra long on me. I find a look better with tops that hit the top of my hip, to mid hip.
Always a challenge to find styles that work with your frame, especially with the inconsistency with sizing. Love that last look on you, by the way. Thanks for a great post.
I still wear tunics, but they fit my body type: I have a short torso and longer legs……very unusual for someone 5’1”. So I understand the caveat about making your legs look shorter, but since I’m the opposite it is cropped tops that look worse on me. As you often remind us, you have to start with physical characteristics, whether body type or coloring, and find what flatters.
Absolutely love your hair in the last pic.(taupe chunky sweater) I still wear tunic length seat shirts over leggings or jeans almost daily but always scarf or jewelry for sure to look like I dressed with purpose!
The tunic top has left the station for me.
Lol!
I love your new hair style Jennifer. This is another excellent and timely article. As I was unpacking my fall sweaters the other day, I was wondering what to do with some of my oversized sweaters as I still liked the colour or fabric. Some I will wear around the house with slim jeans and a few I think will look great worn over my shoulders and tied in the front like a scarf.
I do that often!
Thank you for the timely advise about the tunics. I always have a problem getting the right on w/o looking frumpy. Thanks again.
Tunics still have a spot in my wardrobe, but I’ve definitely relegated them to more “homebound” days, when I’m running up and down stairs, sitting on the floor with puppy, etc. My large bust looks best in a tunic in a woven fabric, open neck, darts and side slits…a top a skinny leg. You’re observations are right on point!
Yes, indeed feeling MOTIVATED is what we need and you shared great tips.
Thank you