I recently realized I’ve been ordering too many little black tops. That’s unusual for me. If you’re new here, I am a former black wearer turned color lover/expert, and I work helping others wear less black. So, why are all these black tops coming to my house?
Perhaps it’s because I went back to my dark hair after years of highlights, or more likely, after embracing colors and learning how to wear black beautifully with my complexion, I intentionally choose to add it to my closet — not just because it feels safe anymore.
Why I Love Little Black Tops (+ The 4 I Can’t Stop Wearing)
Looking back on my style evolution, I’ve always had a special place for little black tops, regardless of size, age or season. You won’t find plain black tees in my closet, but you’ll always discover unique, sexy tops with interesting details.
They’re my secret weapon for impromptu events, chic all-black outfits, letting my hair and accessories shine, or achieving that effortless denim + black top look.
From Relaxed To Sexy: My Top 4 Little Black Tops
Black clothes come in various undertones — some may be more blue, brown or gray. The fabric finish also matters, as matte or shiny textures can affect how they complement your complexion. In my case, I steer clear of washed-out or grayed blacks and those with a shiny finish, because they’re usually too cool-toned for me. Instead, I opt for neutral or slightly warmer blacks in a matte or semi-shiny finish that uplifts my look.
Without further ado, here are four tops I recently tried on and loved. I’m wearing them with these cotton flare pants, these Joe’s Mia coated wide-leg jeans, as well as these Mia flare jeans in a blue wash.
1. The More Relaxed: Madewell Peplum Tank
Love: The not-too-cropped length, the peplum, and the breathable material. This smocked peplum tank from Madewell is a top I’d wear with shorts, wide-leg sweats, trousers and jeans.
top (0 but needed a 2)
Sizing: Took me some time to figure out my size. For reference, I’m a small or medium, depending on the top. The only available at my store were the 0 and 4, and neither were right. Here I decided to wear the 0 and untie it a little bit.
The short peplum is perfect to wear with higher-rise bottoms without tucking it in to show off the waist.
2. The More Feminine (& Not Cropped): 1.State Puff-Sleeve Cotton Top
Love: The 100% cotton and how light 1.State’s puff-sleeve top feels. If needed, the sweetheart neckline and not-too-puffy sleeves would go perfectly under a blazer or jacket. I tucked it in here, but if you’re taller, you can leave it over your pants.
top (S) l pants (27) – more sizes at Bloomingdale’s
Sizing: It runs small. I’m wearing a small and would’ve preferred a medium. But overall is a gorgeous top that needs to be ordered in a bigger size.
This is the perfect black top to wear with wide-leg jeans and trousers to create the perfect balance, especially if you’re narrower at the shoulders.
3. The Sexiest & More Slimming: Edikted Corset Crop Top
Love: This corset top from Edikted is so stretchy and comfortable yet slimming and structured. The adjustable straps help you get the best fit, and the longer front is very concealing.
Sizing: It runs on the smaller size. My true size squeezed my back, but it was perfect once I sized up to an M.
Another great black top to wear with the looser pants in your closet — even sweatpants, but also midi and maxi skirts. I just saw a similar version in white, and I want it too.
4. The More Romantic: ASTR The Label Corset Crop Top
Love: The square neck. The lace and sleeves take this ASTR the Label corset top to a more romantic level, yet the corset’s structure makes it look more elevated.
Con: Depending on your body and torso, you might need double-sided tape to keep the sleeves in place and avoid slipping.
Sizing: I’m unsure if it’s a corset thing, but I had to size up in this one too. It feels more comfortable. If you’re on the taller spectrum and don’t like to show skin, this’ll be too short for you — it’s a little shorter than the Edikted corset.
For a sexier look, try lowering the sleeves and going for an off-the-shoulder moment. I love the versatility you get.
Shop more little black tops
Besos,
Julieta
Do you want to know more about your complexion and the colors that enhance your natural beauty the most? Book your session here. You can also join me on IG (@julietatorresd) for casual-chic outfits. I’d love to see you there.
. Unique & sexy w/ chic details, these 4 are my faves from Edikted, Madewell & more.){kind=link}
Hi Julieta,
You look beautiful.
Did you share a link to the very first top on the top of the post?
I don’t think I see it. Thanks!