Camisole
Shaped like a bra with fabric draping from the bottom of the bust to the waist, this sleeveless, fitted top is often made of thin fabrics such as silk, satin or light cotton.
To wear this great layering piece, use a camisole in a contrasting color under a jacket for a slimming effect. Camisoles can have an empire waist, which is good for either triangle or inverted triangle shapes.
V-neck
This top has an open neck shaped into a "V" at the bustline, like an upside-down triangle.
A V-neck is good for all silhouettes—it's listed as one of my
10 Commandments and as a closet must-have.
Surplice
Like a permanent version of a wrap top, this style is created by cross-wrapping fabric across the front and securing it (most often in the seam) to create a V-shape neckline.
A surplice top is good for hourglass figures and, depending on the cut, can be good for either triangle or inverted triangle as well as a rectangle. Cinching will create a waist for the rectangle shape, and if it flares a bit at the hem, it can hid hips or create hips, making this top also work well for triangles and inverted triangles.
Wrap
This top is created by cross-wrapping fabric and securing it (usually with a tie or button) on the front, side or back of the top, which creates a V-shape neckline.
A wrap top has the same benefits as the surplice—but you can tie as tight or loose as you need, adding some flex ability to the waistline.
Cardigan
This collarless sweater opens down the full-length of the front and often closes with button or snaps. You can take it on and off without pulling it over your head.
A cardigan is an excellent layering and transitional piece. Choose one that is not too bulky, as that will add weight to your frame and can be unflattering.
Halter
This sleeveless top attaches behind the neck, rather than over the shoulders, revealing an open upper back.
A halter top is excellent for triangle shapes because it brings out the shoulders to balance hips. A halter also looks great on rectangles because it brings out your shoulders, making your waist seem smaller.
Square Neck
This top has an open neck shaped like half a square (as opposed to the U-neck, which is shaped like half a circle).
A square neckline is better for triangles because it draws the eye out, elongating your shoulders to balance your hips.
U-Neck
This top has a deep open neck that dips into a half-circle. (A wider version of this is called a "scoop neck.")
A U-neck is good for triangles if the scoop rests far on your shoulders. This will make your shoulders appear wider—same as a square neck. A U-neckline can also be good for rectangles because it widens your shoulders, making your waist seem smaller. A shallow U-neck can draw the eye to the center of the body, which will make you appear slimmer. This is a good choice for full-figured ladies.
Turtleneck
The neckline of this top (usually a sweater) reaches from the shoulders up to the base of the chin with enough fabric to fold over the neckline.
A turtleneck works for all body shapes. Fitted, it is good as a layering piece in colder weather. I would watch that you do not choose one that doesn't have any shape, as that will appear to add weight to your figure.
Sweetheart Neck
The open neck of this top is shaped like the crown of a heart as it meets in a small point in the center of the bust line.
A sweetheart neckline is a good choice for a rectangle, as it will widen your shoulders and adds feminine curves to a boyish shape.
Raglan
The sleeve seams of this top extend up to the base of the neck instead of meeting over the shoulders (like baseball jersey tops with the colored sleeves on a white shell).
A raglan is best for inverted triangles, as it pulls the eye in minimizing your shoulder width.
Kimono
The sleeve of this top is part of the main bodice, rather than separately sewn on. It has a wide cut at the armpits and tapers out toward the wrists like Japanese kimono robes.
A kimono top works best on taller frames, as this silhouette can be overwhelming on petites.
Crew Neck
This round-necked top or sweater has a band of ribbing around the base of the neck that is curved in the shape of a circle.
This is a great layering piece for all body types—just make sure it has shape. It should come in at the waist and release at the hip. Without shape, it will look boxy and add weight to your frame.
Cowl Neck
The neckline of this top or sweater has loose-fitting, extra fabric that drapes naturally in the front. It can be either high-necked or open to reveal more skin around the neck.
A cowl neck is best for those of you who have longer necks—it's a don't for petites.
Boatneck
This top has a high, straight neckline that opens across the collarbone and meets at the tip of the shoulders. It is cut equally high along the front and in the back.
A boatneck top is best for triangles, as the line across the collarbone will draw the eye out and balance a larger hip.
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