Blouses may be one of the most popular tops for women, buthow do they differ from a typical shirt?
At Backdoor Gallery, we sell a wide range of clothing for women, so we get thisquestion a lot.
That’s why we put together this blog post identifying thedifferences between shirts and blouses.
What Is a Blouse Top?
In the world of modern fashion, the term “blouse” usuallyrefers to a women’s top that gathers down at the waist but then expands up fromthe waistline.
A potential explanation for the term "blouse" usedto describe a women's shirt is its resemblance to a blowsy or puffy appearance.In the past, the term "blowsy" denoted a loose or untidy state,similar to how a blouse extends over the waistline. Interestingly, back in the1800s, people would describe someone with a frizzy bun as having "blowsyhair."
By delving further into history, we can speculate thatblouses may have originated from the loose peasant tunic tops wornby farmers worldwide. In this context, the term "blouse" might havederived from a French word indicating "short wool." This could referto a non-tunic-length peasant shirt worn by French farmers in the distant past.
Alright, what about the term “top.”
“Top” is just a general fashion term for any kind of women'sshirt, a blouse falls under this category, but “top” and “blouse” don’tnecessarily imply the same meaning.
For example, this navy blue and whiteiris floral top
Does this imply that any type of loose women’s shirt can beconsidered a blouse?
It's not always the case.
According to modern fashion trends, a blouse generallyexhibits a faintly fancier but more formal style.
A blouse finds its place in work settings, religiousgatherings, or evening outings. Loose knit shirts or peasant-style tops don’ttypically fall into the category of blouses.
However, blouses encompass a wide array of styles and cuts.They can feature short sleeves, long sleeves, or even no sleeves at all.
Collar styles vary from vintage Peter Pan to classic bow tieto basic scoop neck designs. The fabric used in blouses also variessignificantly, although most blouses employ thin, lightweight materials that contributeto the flowy and voluminous nature of this shirt type.
Many blouses incorporate several front buttons, tassels, ora neck zipper for closure. Some may include a sewn-in belt that wraps aroundthe waist and ties secure the blouse. Occasionally, a discreet single buttoncan be found at the back of the blouse’s neckline, although this style is morecommon in options with a higher neck to them.
That being said, there is no consensus on whether abutton-down dress shirt qualifies as a women’s blouse. This more tailored topis often usually classified as just a dress shirt, as it doesn’t have thecharacteristic puffiness associated with a blouse.
So, Is a Blouse Just a Button-Down Shirt?
No.
Blouses typically have a loose waist, whereas button-downshirts almost always feature a tailored waist.
Furthermore, blouses also offer a wide range of styles,including off-the-shoulder or bow tie designs, while button-down shirtsconsistently present a distinctive row of front buttons. We’ll dover moredetails about the different types of blouses later on.
Button-down shirts represent the timeless image of what ashirt signifies in contemporary fashion. These iconic shirts are worn by bothmen and women for formal or business casual occasions.
On the other hand, blouses predominantly play a role inwomen's fashion rather than men's.
So, while both are “tops”, button-down shirts represent abit more in terms of reality, whereas blouses tend to be a bit more specific.
That said, if you’re keen to add blouses to your wardrobe,you still have plenty of options from which to choose.
Let’s look at why.
Shirts vs. Blouses: 14 Ways They Differ
In case you still have any confusion over the differencebetween a shirt and a blouse, we’ve come up with 14 ways in which theycontrast.
1. Button Placement
The primary technical distinction between a blouse and ashirt lies in the buttoning mechanism.
Typically, blouses won't feature buttons that go all the waydown their fronts, while a shirt does. Additionally, the term "shirt"is non-gendered, while "blouse" typically refers to women's clothing.
However, this distinction can become blurry as"shirt" often serves as a general term encompassing various types oftops for both men and women. Usage of the words "blouse" and"shirt" can vary among retailers, clothingbrands, and even across different countries, resulting in different meaningsassociated with each term.
For example, in the United States, the term"shirt" is used broadly to encompass different upper-body garments,such as t-shirts, blouses, dress shirts, sports shirts, polo shirts, knit tops,and dressy tops.
On the other hand, in some countries, the term"shirt" is specifically reserved for formal button-down tops intendedfor either men or women.
Furthermore, the term "blouse" is also used todescribe a form-fitting, midriff-baring shirt commonly worn under a saree,although it features a distinct cut compared to other types of blouses andshirts.
2. Fabric
Shirts and blouses can differ in the type of fabric used.Shirts often use sturdier fabrics like cotton or denim, while blouses mayincorporate more delicate or lightweight fabrics such as silk or chiffon.
3. Style
Shirts and blouses can differ in overall style.
Shirts often have a more casual or utilitarian aesthetic,with clean lines and a focus on practicality.
Blouses, on the other hand, tend to offer a wider range ofstyles, from romantic and flowy designs to tailored and sophisticated looks.Blouses can incorporate details like ruffles, lace, or pleats to enhance theirstyle.
4. Formality
Blouses are generally considered more formal or dressycompared to shirts. They are commonly chosen for occasions that require a morepolished or elegant appearance, such as business meetings, special events, orevening wear. Shirts, on the other hand, are often associated with casual oreveryday wear, though certain styles of shirts, like dress shirts, can also beworn in formal settings.
5. Silhouette
Shirts often emphasize a more streamlined and structuredsilhouette, whereas blouses may offer a looser or more flowy fit. Blouses canhave features like peplum waistlines or gathering that create a more relaxed orfeminine shape.
6. Detailing
Blouses often feature additional decorative elements andembellishments like lace, embroidery, pleats, or pintucks, while shirts usuallyhave simpler and more functional designs without excessive detailing.
7. Length
The length of shirts and blouses can vary. Shirts can comein different lengths, from cropped or waist-length to hip-length or longer.Blouses, on the other hand, are often longer and can extend past the hips oreven feature a tunic length. This longer length adds versatility and allowsblouses to be worn with various bottoms.
8. Fullness
Blouses often offer more fullness or volume compared toshirts. Blouses can have gathered or pleated details around the yoke or waist,creating a looser and more relaxed fit. In contrast, shirts tend to have a morefitted or tailored silhouette with minimal added fullness.
9. Neckline
While both shirts and blouses can have different necklines,blouses are more likely to have varied and intricate necklines such as keyhole,boat neck, or sweetheart necklines, whereas shirts commonly have simplernecklines like round or V-neck.
10. Collar
Collar styles can vary between shirts and blouses. Shirtscommonly have structured collars, such as point collars or button-down collars,which provide a more tailored and classic look. Blouses may have a wider rangeof collar styles, including Peter Pan collars, Mandarin collars, or ruffledcollars, which add femininity and variety to the design.
11. Sleeve Length
Shirts and blouses can differ in sleeve length options.Shirts may offer more options for long sleeves, short sleeves, or even roll-upsleeves, while blouses may showcase a broader range of sleeve styles likeflutter sleeves, bell sleeves, or cap sleeves.
12. Buttons
Shirts and blouses can differ in the placement and number ofbuttons.
Shirts typically have a full button-down front, oftenextending from the collar to the hem, allowing for versatile closure options.Blouses, on the other hand, may have a partial button front or decorativebuttons, with the focus on aesthetics rather than functionality.
13. Cuffs
The style and design of cuffs on shirts and blouses canvary. Shirts may have more structured and traditional cuffs, while blouses mayfeature ruffled or more decorative cuff details.
14. Occasion
Shirts are often associated with more casual or everydaywear, while blouses tend to be linked to dressier or more formal occasions.Blouses may be chosen for events like parties, office settings, or specialoccasions, whereas shirts are typically worn in casual or relaxed settings.
The 10 Types of Blouses
Now that we have a clear, well-defined understanding of whatblouses are, let’s look at the 10 most common types of this popular top.
1. Button-Up Blouse
A Button-Up Blouse is a classic style of blouse thatfeatures a front closure with buttons running down the center. It typicallyincludes a collar and cuffs, resembling a button-down shirt. This versatileblouse can be made from various fabrics and is suitable for both formal andcasual occasions. Its timeless design allows for easy styling and provides apolished and put-together look.
- Pair it with high-waisted trousers andloafers for a sophisticated and polished office look.
- Style it with a denim skirt and ankleboots for a chic and casual weekend outfit.
- Combine it with a leather mini skirt andheels for an edgy and fashion-forward ensemble.
2. Off-Shoulder Blouse
An Off-Shoulder Blouse is a trendy style of blouse thatexposes the shoulders while covering the arms. It features a neckline that sitsbelow the shoulders, often held in place by elastic or smocking. This fashionableblouse offers a flirty and feminine look, suitable for both casual and dressyoccasions. It's a popular choice for adding a touch of allure and showing offthe shoulders.
- Pair it with high-waisted denim shortsand sandals for a trendy summer outfit.
- Style it with a flowy maxi skirt andwedges for a boho-chiclook.
- Combine it with tailored trousers andheels for a chic and fashionable evening ensemble.
3. Peplum Blouse
A Peplum Blouse is a feminine style of blouse thatemphasizes the waistline with a flared or ruffled fabric at the waist. Ittypically has a fitted bodice and a peplum detail, creating a flouncy andflattering silhouette. This blouse style adds volume and a touch of elegance toany outfit, making it suitable for both formal and casual occasions. The peplumdesign offers a chic and fashionable look.
- Pair it with skinny jeans and ankle bootsfor a stylish and balanced silhouette.
- Style it with a pencil skirt and pumpsfor a sophisticated office attire.
- Combine it with high-waisted shorts andplatform sandals for a playful and flirty look.
4. Wrap Blouse
A Wrap Blouse is a versatile style of blouse that features afront closure where one side wraps across the other and ties at the waist orside. It creates a flattering and adjustable fit, accentuating the waistline.This blouse style often has a V-neckline and a crossover design, offering asophisticated and feminine look. The wrap blouse can be dressed up or down,making it suitable for various occasions.
- Pair it with wide-leg trousers and mulesfor an effortlessly chic and modern outfit.
- Style it with a midi skirt and strappyheels for an elegant and feminine ensemble.
- Combine it with denim jeans and sneakersfor a comfortable yet stylish casual look.
5. Ruffled Blouse
A Ruffled Blouse is an elegant style of blouse thatincorporates ruffles or frills as decorative elements. These ruffles can befound on the neckline, sleeves, or front of the blouse, adding texture, volume,and a touch of femininity. Ruffled blouses can range from subtle and delicateto bold and dramatic, allowing for various styles and occasions. They are oftensought after for their romantic and playful aesthetic.
- Pair it with a leather skirt and ankleboots for a combination of edgy and feminine style.
- Style it with tailored trousers andpointed-toe flats for a polished office look.
- Combine it with high-waisted jeans andblock heels for a romantic and trendy outfit.
6. Sleeveless Blouse
A Sleeveless Blouse is a versatile style of blouse thatlacks sleeves, providing a more open and breezier feel. This blouse exposes thearms and shoulders, making it a suitable choice for warmer weather or layeringunder jackets and cardigans. Sleeveless blouses come in various necklines anddesigns, allowing for different looks ranging from casual to more formal. Theyoffer flexibility and can be easily paired with different bottoms for variousoccasions.
- Pair it with a statement midi skirt andheels for a sophisticated and dressy appearance.
- Style it with denim shorts and sneakersfor a casual and relaxed summer outfit.
- Combine it with wide-leg trousers and ablazer for a chic and professional look.
7. Tunic Blouse
A Tunic Blouse is a longer style of blouse that typicallyfalls below the waist. It often features a loose and relaxed fit, providingcomfort and ease of movement. Tunic blouses can come in various sleeve lengthsand necklines, and they are versatile enough to be paired with leggings, jeans,or skirts. This blouse style is known for its casual and effortless look,making it a popular choice for everyday wear.
- Pair it with leggings and ankle boots fora comfortable yet stylish everyday outfit.
- Style it with skinny jeans and balletflats for a relaxed and effortless casual look.
- Combine it with a belt and tailored pantsfor a more structured and polished ensemble.
8. Sheer Blouse
A Sheer Blouse is a stylish and alluring style of blousethat is made from lightweight and transparent fabrics such as chiffon or lace.It offers a delicate and ethereal look, allowing a glimpse of the skin beneath.Sheer blouses can be designed with various necklines, sleeve lengths, anddetailing, making them versatile for both casual and formal occasions. They areoften layered with camisoles or bralettes for modesty while adding a touch ofglamour and femininity to an outfit.
- Pair it with a lace bralette andhigh-waisted trousers for an alluring and elegant outfit.
- Style it with a pencil skirt and acamisole for a sophisticated office-ready ensemble.
- Combine it with denim shorts and sandalsfor a playful and feminine summer look.
9. High-Low Blouse
A High-Low Blouse is a trendy style of blouse characterizedby its asymmetric hemline, with the front being shorter than the back. Itoffers a unique and modern twist to traditional blouses. The shorter hemline atthe front gives the wearer easy movement and a relaxed feel, while the longer hemlinein the back provides plenty of elegance and drama. High-Low Blouses can befound in various designs, necklines, and sleeve lengths, making them versatilefor different occasions and styles.
- Pair it with skinny jeans and heels for amodern and trendy everyday outfit.
- Style it with a pleated midi skirt andankle boots for a fashionable and edgy look.
- Combine it with tailored shorts andwedges for a chic and elevated summer ensemble.
10. Bow Tie Blouse
A Bow Tie Blouse is a sophisticated style of blouse thatfeatures a bow tie or necktie detail at the neckline. It can showcase a largedecorative bow or a smaller necktie, adding an elegant and refined touch to theblouse. This style is often associated with a polished and feminine aesthetic.Bow Tie Blouses can come in various designs, necklines, and sleeve lengths,making them versatile for both professional and dressy occasions.
- Pair it with wide-leg trousers and pumpsfor a refined and polished office attire.
- Style it with a pleated midi skirt andballet flats for a charming and feminine outfit.
- Combine it with denim jeans and ankleboots, accessorized with a statement belt, for a chic and trendy ensemble.
