Off the Shoulder, On Trend

Off the shoulder styles and I have had a tumultuous relationship until recently. When I first drank the kool aid and started scooping up this trendy style I was disappointed with the results. Too much tugging, riding up, limited arm mobility, you get the picture – all had me thinking of giving this trend the cold shoulder (see what I did there?). So for awhile I only bought cold shoulder styles and gave up on OTS.

But I am a forgiving soul by nature so I took the plunge again and I’m happy to report with much better success! Here’s what I think happened: I’ve learned that not all OTS are created equally meaning some stay put AND I found a comfortable strapless bra that makes the whole experience a better one. The best part is that I have noticed the OTS tops that stay put aren’t expensive so don’t believe you have to spend more to achieve that level of comfort (we’re not talking about 1st class airline seats, okay).

Let’s start with the basics – a good strapless bra. A few months ago I bought a Vanishing Back Bra from Soma. I like it very much and recently added another one. Now that I’m on their mailing list I get their sales alerts. I knew I needed a new strapless bra because my old one was getting tight (I’m sure IT was shrinking and has nothing to do with me EXPANDING – ha!). Impressed enough with my bra purchase and knowing what size I wear in their brand (36DDD) made it easy to shop online. I found one on sale and I love it. It does not slide down during the day and doesn’t cut in anywhere – it also came with removable straps for different styling options. Score! Note: mine does not appear to be available online any longer – it was the Vanishing Back Strapless Bra, however, here are two options to consider:

As a matter of fact I wore it three times before writing this post to give it a road test of sorts! I call that research. So large chested ladies don’t shy away from OTS, you can do it!
Gibson Hi Sugarplum Rick Rack OTS Top and Ponte Skirt First up is my new rick rack OTS top. It’s currently on sale for around $35. I think it’s a fun summer top and I love it with my skirt. Remember all the ways I have styled this skirt? You can see the top is a bit on the sheer side but it is lined. I wore this all day on Friday – to get my haircut and then out that night for dinner with friends! I added lilac earrings. Gibson Hi Sugarplum OTS Rick Rack Top

My next OTS top is one I bought from my dear friend Andrea’s recent clothing sale. It’s from Chicwish and I remembered seeing her in it on her blog. I loved it then and I love it now. The gingham print is actually magenta although it almost looks red. It was perfect with my new white denim from Loft. I love the fun detailing on the sleeves!OTS Gingham Top and White Denim
Speaking of sleeves, my favorite OTS top so far is this palm print OTS top from Amazon. It stays put, the sleeves are darling and it is super affordable. I usually wear it with green shorts like I did in this post. This time I decided to wear my white denim. It really is versatile and will look terrific with blue denim as well! OTS Palm Print Top It is slightly longer in the back. I found it to run a little on the small side (at least if you have a larger chest) so I am wearing a large. OTS palm print top and white denim
This top is available in a yellowish gold color as well. I wish there were more color options as I’d scoop them up!
So, are you a fan of OTS or not? Generally speaking a woman’s shoulders are appealing, maybe even a little sexy. I think that makes it the perfect style for date night or something else fun. Definitely not work appropriate but there’s room for this style in your wardrobe. It could easily serve as my summer uniform!

One last thing – next Monday I hope you’ll join my friends and I for a Red, White, and Blue link up , mark your calendars!

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