Tops for women in soft fabric and what is available

Short answer: Tops for women come as tank tops, strappy styles, T-shirt tops and long sleeve models, and in a soft fabric like bamboo viscose they all feel gentle on the skin. Choose by where and how you will wear them, and look at the fit more than the name.

What exactly is a top

A top is a garment for the upper body, and it can be anything from a thin tank top to a slightly fuller T-shirt style. The names are used loosely in shops, so it is a good idea to read the description of cut and fabric and not only the heading before you choose.

Tank tops and straps

The tank top has wide shoulders and is the most covering of the sleeveless styles, while models with thin straps let more air in at the shoulders and neck. Both work well as a first layer under a sweater, or alone on a warm day when you want a light feel. See the range of bamboo tops for women.

The short sleeve top

The short sleeve style is the workhorse of everyday wear, because it covers the upper arms and can be worn alone or under something else. It often sits a little looser than the tank top, and the sleeve edge is cut so that it does not press when you lift your arms or sit at a desk.

Long sleeve tops

A long sleeve top suits the cooler months and is a good base under a sweatshirt or hoodie. Look for sleeves that are long enough to reach the wrist without riding up, and a fabric stretchy enough to give way when you reach for something.

Soft fabric and what it means

Bamboo viscose is a soft, smooth fabric that many find more comfortable than stiffer materials. It lies well against the skin and drapes lightly, so the top does not feel like a hard frame around the body but like a layer that follows you through the day.

Fit from close to loose

A close fitting top gives a smooth line under other clothes, but a slightly looser top is often more comfortable for long days and for time at home. Think about what the top will be used for and choose the size accordingly, so you do not end up with a top that either pulls or flaps.

Combining with underwear and loungewear

A soft top works best when the rest of your clothing is soft too, without sharp seams. That goes for bamboo underwear for women under the top as well as a set of bamboo jogging sets for days at home, when everything should be easy to put on.

Care so the top lasts

Wash tops at a low temperature and turn them inside out, so the surface is not rubbed by other clothes in the machine. Avoid the tumble dryer, dry them flat and iron only on low heat, if you need to iron at all.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a tank top and a strappy top

A tank top has wider shoulders and covers more, while a strappy top has thin bands and shows more of the shoulders. Choose by how much coverage and air you want.

Can a top be worn as a layer under a sweater

Yes, thin tops are good as a first layer because they lie smoothly against the skin. Choose a fit that does not bunch up, so the sweater on top can sit well.

How do I wash a top in soft fabric

Wash at a low temperature on a gentle cycle and avoid the tumble dryer. Dry the top flat so that it keeps its shape for longer.