Standalone sleeveless tops
Whenever I need a wardrobe refresh but don’t know where to start, I always find it useful to reference my various wishlists I’ve accumulated on my favorite e-comm platforms for inspiration. And right now, it’s obvious what’s capturing my attention: sleeveless tops in almost every shape and form.
It seems like they all have a common 00s vibe, although they embrace slightly different styles. This is why I ended up organising them by category. However, this is simply because I enjoy categorizing, and it doesn’t mean you have to stick to a specific style, just because you feel you are more ‘minimal’ rather than ‘street’. That’s the beauty of fashion: you can be whoever you want and wear whatever you feel like, as long as makes you feel comfortable and happy with yourself.
Here’s a list of sleeveless beauties I came across while e-window shopping. As I said, no need to limit yourself to one particular style—I myself would love to own them all, although it would require a walk-in mansion instead of a small wardrobe. But hey, it’s always nice to dream, isn’t it?
Minimal waistcoats vests
The main fabrics are linen, cotton, and light wool. I particularly appreciate the beautiful elongated cut of vests like the Chloé vest. It can be worn slightly unbuttoned at the bottom, creating a relaxed yet polished look. The ribbon tie closure is also very interesting, offering an alternative summery look that I personally picked.
These vests offer great versatility and can be worn either on their own or layered over a comfy white t-shirt. To complete the look, pair the vest with oversized chinos or tailored trousers for a stunning outfit.
Chloé
£ 840
Bondi Born
£ 236
Rejina Pyo
£ 300
Rika Studios
£ 287
Knitted tops and vests
Along the line of the minimal vests, but probably with a slight more edge and summery vibe, these tops offer a great choice
Fortela
£ 255
Zara
£ 20
The Elder Statesman
£ 755
Zara
£ 30
00s tank tops
I’ll just say this: Diesel nailed it!
Diesel
£ 190
Paula Canovas del Vas
£ 275
Talia Byre
£ 430
Diesel
£ 404
Tie-dye
Here’s where grunge and 90s minimal go hand in hand, for your pleasure. Prada, being Prada, created its own sophisticated 90s version, while Agolde, ove of my favourite, opted for a more casual, classic 90s grunge top that can be easily worn pretty much with any type of jeans.
For a top-notch look, wear it with oversized jeans or long denim skirts (see this article for a few skirts inspo).
Marques'Almeida
£ 305
Prada
£ 1,650
Simkhai
£ 315
Agolde
£ 120
Wide shoulder sleeveless jerseys
The cut of these tops suddenly takes me back to my mid-teen years in the early 00s and the crew-neck, wide-shoulder sleeveless jersey tops associated with it (think of California skateboarders and band t-shirts). These tops are one of the most interesting nods to that era, and quite a few brands have understood the potential and created their own exciting new versions. Thanks JW Anderson and Miu Miu for their contributions!
Looking back at pictures from that time of my life, I must admit those tops didn’t flatter me much. However, I like to believe that over the years, my taste has evolved. So, I am confident that this time I won’t feel stylistically unprepared.
They can be paired with cargo trousers and shorts, denim mini skirts and relaxed jeans, and elevated with accessories, such as statement heels or the most on-trend shoulder bags (see here and here for a few ideas). Beautiful!
JW Anderson
£ 225
Marni
£ 223
Mother
£ 130
Miu Miu
£ 666
One-of-a-kind tops
From Christopher Esber‘s signature cut-outs, to JW Anderson unique detailing these tops are unusual, yet versatile. Use to add a fun note to your outfits.
Christopher Esber
£ 265
JW Anderson
£ 450
Y/Project
£ 312
