How to Find the Best Work Blouses

Blouses are a staple in many wardrobes. But for those who aren't familiar with this style, you might be wondering exactly what makes a blouse different than a standard shirt. In this post, we'll detail exactly what a blouse is, explain where it's most often worn and provide tips for finding a blouse that fits just right.

Blouses 101

A blouse is a type of ladies' shirt that is considered to have a slightly dressier look than most tops. It's similar to a dress shirt for men, but it doesn't always have a button-up style. Blouses often have a rounded hem, allowing them to be worn tucked in or left untucked depending on your preferred style.

There are a huge variety of shirt silhouettes and styles that can be classified as blouses. However, most dressy or professional-looking tops for women are considered to be blouses.

Blouses at Work

One of the most common applications for blouses is workwear. Many women in professional offices wear blouses to work on a daily basis. Blouses are a great choice for professional clothing because they have a more formal appearance while still being comfortable and versatile.

In addition, they are a popular choice for work settings where workers need to wear uniforms, such as restaurants, hotels and other service industry jobs. These blouses provide a professional and consistent look for female employees and can be easily matched with uniform dress shirts that the male employees may be required to wear. Because they have so many style options, you can also choose a uniform blouse with fashionable accents that leaves a good impression and has some personality (such as this Ruffle Pleat Blouse).

Blouse Sizing and Fit

Blouse sizes may come in standard sizes (small, medium, large, etc.) or in numbered sizes (0, 2, 4, 6, etc.). In both cases, it's important to check the size chart for bust, waist and hip measurements to find the proper fit. The shirt should not feel too tight across the shoulders or bust when trying it on.

Most blouses are either flowy or fitted in style. While a flowy top is most common for dressy occasions outside of the office, a fitted blouse tends to be the best pick for professional settings.

Sleeve length is another consideration when choosing a blouse. These ladies' tops can feature full-length sleeve, ¾-length sleeve, short-sleeve or sleeveless styles.

Tips for Buying Blouses

Ready to buy some blouses of your own? It's important to pay attention to the details when shopping for these women's tops. Here are some of the features to consider when buying blouses for work or for dressy outfits:

• Material: A soft, slight stretchy material such as a cotton/polyester blend can provide the best comfort level when wearing a blouse.
• Maintenance: Does the blouse need to be dry cleaned or can you wash it at home? Dry clean only shirts can be much more expensive in the long run. If possible, choose a wrinkle-free blouse that does not require ironing.
• Neckline: If you're looking for blouses to wear at work, it's best to choose something with a slightly higher neckline to maintain a professional appearance.

Use this guide to make sure you get the best blouses for your needs and your personal style. For an extra sharp, professional look and a must-have branding opportunity, trust Sharper Uniforms with custom logo blouses. We can customize your uniform blouses with embroidery, screen printing or heat seal transfer to fit your workplace and brand.