Last Updated on March 5, 2023 by
Broad shoulders can be a beautiful feature, but they can also make finding suitable tops a bit more challenging. Many tops that fit well in the bust and waist are too tight in the shoulders, while others hang shapelessly. However, with a few style tips and the right choices in tops, you can accentuate your shoulders and create a flattering silhouette. This guide is all about tops for broad shoulders in detail.
Table of Contents
Top 15 best tops for broad shoulders
1. Off-the-shoulder tops
Off-the-shoulder tops are an excellent option for those with broad shoulders, as they draw attention away from the shoulders and to the collarbone and neckline. These tops come in various styles, from flowy and bohemian to sleek and sophisticated. They can be dressed up or down, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
2. Asymmetrical tops
Asymmetrical tops are a stylish and unique option for those with broad shoulders. These tops feature one shoulder that is higher or lower than the other, which helps to balance the body and take attention away from the shoulders. They come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
3. Ruffle tops
Ruffle tops are a feminine and flirty option for those with broad shoulders. They feature delicate ruffles that add volume to the top of the garment, which helps to balance the body and take attention away from the shoulders. Ruffle tops come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
4. Wrap tops
Wrap tops are an excellent option for those with broad shoulders, as they provide a flattering draping effect. They are typically cut on the bias, which creates a flattering fit. They can also be cinched at the waist, which helps to create a balance on the body and take attention away from the shoulders.
5. A-line tops
A-line tops are an excellent option for those with broad shoulders. They are cut to flare out from the waist, which helps to balance the body and take attention away from the shoulders. A-line tops come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
6. Cowl neck tops
Cowl neck tops are stylish and unique for those with broad shoulders. They feature a draped neckline that creates a soft and flowing effect. This helps to create a balance in the body and take attention away from the shoulders. Cowl neck tops come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
7. Tops with a v-neck
Tops with a V-neck are a great option for those with broad shoulders. The V-neckline creates a diagonal line that helps to elongate the body and take attention away from the shoulders. These tops come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
8. Tops with a high neck
Tops with a high neck are a great option for those with broad shoulders. The high neckline helps to elongate the body and take attention away from the shoulders. These tops come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
9. Cold-shoulder
Tops Cold-shoulder tops are stylish and unique for those with broad shoulders. They feature cut-out sections on the shoulders, which help to create a balance on the body and take attention away from the shoulders. Cold-shoulder tops come in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be paired with any bottom.
10. Raglan sleeve tops
Raglan sleeve tops are a great option for women with broad shoulders as they help balance out the upper body’s proportions. The raglan sleeves are set at an angle, which can help to detract from the shoulders and create the illusion of a slimmer figure. These tops are available in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
11. Tunic tops
Tunic tops are a great option for women with broad shoulders as they help to balance out the proportions of the upper body. The tunic design is more extended and looser, which can help to detract from the shoulders and create the illusion of a slimmer figure. These tops are available in various styles, from casual to formal, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
12. Opt for off-the-shoulder tops
Wearing off-the-shoulder tops can help to draw attention away from the shoulders and create the illusion of a more balanced silhouette. Look for tops with a wide neckline that sits just off the shoulders. Avoid tops with straps or sleeves, as these can make the shoulders appear more expansive.
13. Choose tops with ruched or gathered detail
Tops with ruched or gathered detail can also help to balance out broad shoulders. These tops create volume in the upper body and can make the shoulders appear smaller by comparison. Look for tops with ruching or gathering at the shoulders or chest.
14. Layer with a cardigan or jacket
Layering a cardigan or jacket over the top can also help to balance out broad shoulders. The added layer creates volume and can make the shoulders appear smaller. Look for cardigans or jackets with a relaxed fit and falling just above the hips.
15. Try a wrap or tie-front top
Wrap tops or tie-front tops can also help to balance out broad shoulders. These tops create a cinched-in waist, making the shoulders appear slimmer by comparison. Look for tops that have a wrap or tie detail at the waist or chest.
Styles to avoid with tops for broad shoulders
When dressing for broad shoulders, it’s best to avoid tops with heavy or wide necklines, such as turtlenecks or boat necks. These tops will only add width to the shoulders and make them appear larger. Instead, opt for tops with v-necks or scoop necks that draw the eye downwards and create a more balanced look.
Additionally, tops with ruffles, pleats, or added embellishments on the shoulders should be avoided as they will further enhance the shoulders’ width. It’s also best to avoid tops with cap sleeves or no sleeves, as they will make your shoulders appear more expansive.
- Shoulder pads. These may seem logical for balancing broad shoulders, but they often add bulk and make the shoulders appear even more comprehensive. Instead, opt for tops that drape or have gathered at the shoulder for a softer, more natural look.
- Raglan sleeves. These sleeves are set at a diagonal and can make broad shoulders appear even more comprehensive. Instead, look for tops with vertical seams or cap sleeves.
- Strapless tops. These can be particularly tricky for those with broad shoulders, as they often slip down and require constant adjusting. Instead, look for tops with straps or sleeves to help keep them in place.
Styles to try with tops for broad shoulders
- Off-the-shoulder tops. These tops have a wide neckline that sits off the shoulders, which can elongate the neck and draw attention to the collarbones. They also create a V-shape that can help balance out broad shoulders.
- One-shoulder tops. These tops have one strap or sleeve and can be an excellent option for those with broad shoulders. The asymmetry helps to create balance and draws attention to the collarbone.
- V-neck tops. These tops have a V-shaped neckline that can help to elongate the neck and create the illusion of a narrower shoulder. Look for tops with a deep V-neck for the most slimming effect.
- Wrap tops. These tops have a diagonal overlap that can create a flattering line, which can help balance out broad shoulders. Look for tops that cinch at the waist for the most slimming effect.
- Dolman sleeves. These sleeves are wide at the top and taper at the wrist, which can help balance broad shoulders.
Accessorizing with tops for broad shoulders
Accessorizing with tops for broad shoulders can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can create a flattering and stylish look.
When accessorizing tops for broad shoulders, one crucial thing to remember is to focus on creating balance. This can be achieved by adding volume to the lower half of your body, such as with a full skirt or wide-leg pants.
Another strategy is to draw attention away from your shoulders by accessorizing with statement jewelry or scarves. A necklace with a pendant or chunky earrings can draw the eye downward, while a scarf can add interest and dimension to your upper body.
You can also play with different necklines. A V-neck or scoop neck can create the illusion of a slimmer shoulder, while a boat neck can help to balance out your proportions. Avoid tops with thick straps or puff sleeves, as they tend to add volume to the shoulders.
Additionally, you can look for tops with strategic details such as ruching or draping, which can help camouflage any areas you want to conceal.
Accessorizing can also create balance and draw attention away from broad shoulders.
- Scarves and statement necklaces: These can be draped around the neck to draw attention to the collarbones and create a V-shape.
- Earrings: Draw attention to your ears with statement or dangly earrings.
- Bracelets: Stack bracelets on your wrists to draw attention to your arms and away from your shoulders.
How to minimize the broad shoulders?
There are a few things that can be done to minimize the appearance of broad shoulders:
· Clothing choices
Wearing clothing that balances the upper and lower body can minimize the appearance of broad shoulders. For example, wearing tops with ruffles gathers, or pleats on the shoulders can add volume to the upper body and help to balance it out. Avoiding clothes with shoulder pads or horizontal stripes can also help to reduce the appearance of broad shoulders.
· Exercise
Targeted exercises that work the back and upper body can help to reduce the appearance of broad shoulders. For example, exercises such as pull-ups, rows, and let pull-downs can help to strengthen the back muscles and create a more defined, toned look.
· Posture
Good posture can minimize the appearance of broad shoulders by pulling the shoulders back and down. A simple way to work on posture is to imagine a string pulling your head toward the ceiling.
· Hair and makeup
Having a longer hairstyle or styling your hair to cover your shoulders helps minimize the appearance of broad shoulders. Also, makeup can contour your face and create a more balanced look.
Conclusion
Broad shoulders can be a beautiful feature, but they can also make finding fitting tops a bit more challenging. However, with a few style tips and the right choices in shelters, you can accentuate your shoulders and create a flattering silhouette. Avoid tops with shoulder pads, raglan sleeves, and strapless tops.
Instead, try off-the-shoulder tops, one-shoulder tops, V-neck tops, wrap tops, and Dolman sleeves. Accessorizing can also create balance and draw attention away from broad shoulders. With a bit of experimentation and confidence in your style, you’ll find the perfect tops to flatter your broad shoulders.
Apart from that, if you are interested to know about “Fashion Tips for Women” then visit our Fashion category.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Are there any tops that are good for broad shoulders?
The V-neck, scoop-neck, and collarless blouses are great because they focus on the collarbones and chest area instead of your neck. Most sleeves look good on the body, including fitted sleeves, raglans, and loose and long dolman sleeves, which can elongate shoulders.
- What clothes should you wear if you have broad shoulders?
You can offset your upper body with the volume below: wide-leg pants; or fuller skirts. Make sure you look for details that draw the eye up and down rather than across view or scoop necks, vertical embellishments, or long scarves and necklaces. Don’t wear anything crisp and squared-off, such as soft shoulders, raglan sleeves, halters, etc.
- If you have broad shoulders, what should you not wear?
Don’t wear off-the-shoulder or boat necklines in general. Having broad shoulders can make wearing these necklines tricky, as they can draw too much attention to your shoulder area, making them appear even more comprehensive and creating a lack of balance within your body.
- Are broad shoulders attractive?
The preference for large shoulders among women is common. One study found that guys consider this type of body to be ideal as well. Participants in the survey indicated that shoulders are one of the essential parts of the body and that muscular shoulders are incredibly crucial.
- Does having broad shoulders make you look taller or shorter?
However, the size of your head or the length of your legs does. We tend to associate thinner and more petite body parts with ectomorphs, the tallest of the three primary human morphologies, thus making you appear (in a vacuum) taller.
