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Today’s article comes to us from Megan LaRussa, a Southern fashion stylist specializing in helping women look and feel their best through their wardrobes.

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As a fashion lover, I thought I should and could wear every trend that came and went. Boy, was I wrong. I firmly believe that not every trend is for everyone — we should be selective about the trends we purchase and wear. I educate my style-coaching clients on dressing for their body types and personal style, and also the cost-per-wear philosophy. These three components help determine the seasonal trends that keep them looking current while still feeling like themselves.

Here are three shirt trends for this spring and summer season that I find work for most women. Add one or two of these trends to your closet to keep your warm-weather wardrobe looking and feeling fresh!

Trend #1: Shorter Tops

Like many of my clients, you may be thinking, There’s no way I would wear a crop top! And that is completely understandable — I said the same thing myself. But the great news is that all shorter tops are not crop tops and don’t necessarily mean exposing your midriff. Some tops are cropped at the high hip, offering plenty of coverage while staying on-trend.

This style of top works wonders for all body types. My clients with less-defined waists who don’t like to tuck in their shirts, can wear a shorter top with a pair of more high-waisted jeans, shorts, or pants for a current and flattering look. Those with more defined waists who don’t mind tucking in a top can also take these shorter tops and fully tuck them into a higher-waisted bottom for a pulled-together look.

Model wearing black Savi top with denim flare jeans and nude heels.

Savi top, $178, at EVEREVE | Image: EVEREVE

Model in ruffle floral tank with flared jeans.

Lora ruffle tank, $78, at EVEREVE | Image: EVEREVE

Model wearing white seersucker crop top that ties in the front.

Seersucker crop top, $54.95, at LOFT | Image: LOFT

Model wearing orange crop top with ruffle sleeves.

Ruffle sleeve top, $138, at Lilla P | Image: Lilla P

Trend #2: Bold Prints

Florals, stripes, abstract watercolors … you name it, spring has it! Select the print that speaks to your style and wear it in a button-down, t-shirt, silk blouse, or cropped top.

I often tell my style coaching clients to select the scale of the print based on their frame and height. My more petite clients look best in a smaller-scale print, while my taller ladies can rock a larger-scale print. But don’t hold back just because you are petite! Opt for a smaller print in vivid colors and keep everything else in your outfit neutral.

Before you buy a new, bold print, remember to think of two to three ways you will wear the garment to ensure the item is versatile and worth the investment.

Model in white scallop shorts and colorful marble print top.

Wavesong tee, $178, at J.McLaughlin | Image: J.McLaughlin

Model in jeans and multi-color oxford shirt.

Boyfriend shirt, $128, at Tuckernuck | Image: Tuckernuck

Model in colorful floral blouse and denim jeans.

Teresa blouse, $163, at EVEREVE | Image: EVEREVE

Model in orange floral blouse and wide-leg pants

Catie ruffle-sleeved tee, $58, at Anthropologie | Image: Anthropologie

Trend #3: Shades of Green

Every season, there’s a color that monopolizes every runway and boutique. And this spring and summer, it’s green! Lime green, Kelly green, grass green, olive green … there are so many gorgeous shades of this fresh hue, which means you can easily find the right shade of green for your skin tone.

A green top can be surprisingly versatile. Pair it with khaki, white, or navy on the bottom for a neutral look, or go tonal with two shades of green together for a bolder look. I even love lemon and lime green together for a fresh pairing.

Model in balloon-sleeve green blouse and matching shorts.

Balloon-sleeve top, $248, at Saks Fifth Avenue | Image: Saks Fifth Avenue

Model in green tank and jeans

Velvet Zoey blouse, $150, at Shopbop | Image: Shopbop

Model in jean shorts and green cropped collared shirt.

Gracie crop shirt, $158, at EVEREVE | Image: EVEREVE

Model in khaki shorts and green stripe shirt.

Jaylin stripe street, $178, at EVEREVE | Image: EVEREVE

Model in white pants and green Dani blouse

Dani blouse, $345, at L’AGENCE | Image: L’AGENCE

Trying a new trend doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or intimidating — you just need to know what’s in style, which trends have longevity, and how to wear the looks in a flattering and fresh way.

Shop all 13 trendy tops here:

To learn more about your unique body type and personal style, as well as how to create outfits with ease, check out Megan’s online style course, Style Yourself Chic 101.

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About the Author
Megan LaRussa

Megan LaRussa is a Southern fashion stylist specializing in helping women look and feel their best through their wardrobes.