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3 min read
The new season upgrade of that trusty T-shirt.
Few outfits are more failsafe than jeans and a nice top. Seeing us through a whole host of occasions, from first dates to dinners, these two pieces, put together, make up the majority of our wardrobes, and we know we aren’t the only ones. But trying to make it seem slightly more special can be the tricky part.
Enter the second-skin top, the modern alternative to the trusty T-shirt. Tight-fitting, thin and sometimes sheer, they cover the body with a barely there feel, making for the perfect layering piece.
Spotted on the spring/summer 2023 runways of Miu Miu, Acne Studios, Ferragamo and Bottega Veneta, they’re the well-built essential that has received fashion’s seal of approval. And they couldn’t be simpler to style. A column maxi skirt, cargos or wide-leg trousers are sure to do the trick – just play around with colours to make them truly pop.
We’ve found nine of our favourite styles below – from Cos, Skims, H&M and many more – to suit everyone, from those who like things nice and neutral to those keen to colour clash. It may be time to slot in a new style to your regular rotation.
Cos slim-fit merino wool turtleneck top
In a highlighter green shade, this is one statement-making top. Made from merino wool, it’s toasty but not sweat-inducing, thanks to how thin it is.
Skims soft smoothing turtleneck top
Skims is known for its shapewear, but this top is sumptuously soft, skin-tight and seriously chic. Coming in a range of colours, the nylon-spandex blend is stretchy yet in a classic cut that’s perfect for any occasion.
Intimately Before Sunset mesh long sleeve
See-through to bring that effortlessly sexy chic look, this top can be trusted to turn heads. Pair with lace lingerie as pictured or pop on a simple vest underneath for a more modest look.
Shop Intimately before sunset mesh long sleeve at Free People, £32
Intimately clean lines long sleeve
Contrasting the hefty amount of high-neck options, a square neck could be the small staple needed to elevate any outfit.
Ted Baker Glorihh seaming jersey mesh top
There’s a lot going on in this second-skin top, and yet it just works. Combining a floral pattern with a built-in bra, it’s more modest than some of the other sheer options yet still lets the skin show through for that subtly sexy feel.
Acne Studios high-neck top
Pretty in pink, this Acne Studios top is perfect for those after a pop of colour. Whether paired with black, cream or another clashing colour, it’s sure to make a fabulous foundation for any outfit.
Dorothy Perkins curve square neck long-sleeve top
A white T-shirt is a true wardrobe staple, so slotting this long-sleeve option in should be simple.
H&M mesh sports top
The sports section may not be the first place you look for fashion pieces, but this H&M number may change your mind about that. In a punchy peach shade, this mesh option is certainly striking, showing a slight shadow of what’s underneath.
Cos long-sleeved scoop-neck top
Sleek and chic, this dark brown Cos top can be counted on for any occasion. Made from an organic cotton and elastane blend, its slim fit is sophisticated enough for any occasion from the boardroom to the bar.
Images: courtesy of brands
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