Know the types of women’s blouses + detailed pictures

If you also consider most of the clothes related to the upper body, from tops and shirts to blouses, it’s time to know that none of them are blouses. If you want to know the types of women’s blouses and their difference from other clothes, read this article.

Blues definition technically

Technically, a blouse is a type of loose women’s clothing that is gathered at the waist with pleats, straps, pleats or a belt and is placed loosely and puffy on top of it. Of course, nowadays many new model blouses have changed; So that they are still loose but may not gather in the waist. Of course, it is not the case that every floral dress can be placed in the category of blouses.

The blouse has many models and you can put all kinds of sleeves, all kinds of collars and buttons on it. The blouse can be plain or decorated with lace, ruffles and embroidery. To make blouses, they use all kinds of light fabrics; However, it is more common to use luxurious and stylish fabric for it.

Important note: Blouse is a women’s dress; That means we don’t have men’s blouses!

Different characteristics of women’s blouses

The most important feature of the blouse is its comfort and spaciousness. However, we also have the following features:

In terms of raw materials

Fabrics used for blouses include light fabrics such as silk, thin cotton fabrics, silk, organza and synthetic fibers such as polyester. Of course, this does not mean that blouses cannot be made from other fabrics.

In terms of buttons and zipper

Some blouses have buttons and some don’t. Buttons can be placed on the front of the dress or on the back of the neck, depending on their collar style. Some blouses have zippers instead of buttons.

In terms of being official

A blouse is an almost formal or semi-formal dress. So it can be worn at work or more formal parties. If it is casual, casual is considered stylish.

The history of women’s blouses

The history of women’s blouses is divided into three periods before the First World War, in the period between the two wars, and from the Second World War onwards. Let’s check them out.

Before the First World War

Terminologically, blues is a French word that entered the English language. Originally, a blouse was a blue dress worn by French workers or postal workers. Later, its shape and image changed and it became popular among farm workers or peasants in other countries. If you know Giuseppe Garibaldi, his outfit is the blouse we are talking about. Garibaldi is a famous Italian fighter of the 1860s, whose sacrifices in the war of Italian independence from Austria are well-known. Until this time, the blouse was a men’s dress and was not yet considered a women’s dress. In the 1870s, the blouse was first introduced as a casual dress for young ladies. However, by the 1890s, it was not yet part of the wardrobe of fashionable women.

By the end of the Victorian era, the blouse had become entirely for women. In fact, the standard dress for a working woman in the 1890s was a blouse with a simple skirt:

In these years, sailor blouses, derived from sailors’ uniforms, became popular for girls. They wore this blouse with a blue pleated skirt. However, when the National Socialism movement took off, it rejected the sailor blouse as a garment originating from the decadent culture of the bourgeoisie.

In the 1900s and 1910s, blouses were designed that were more fashionable and were no longer considered workwear. These blouses were called lingerie blouses (lingerie blouses) because they used lace and embroidered decorations, which before that were only for underwear. Around the same time, Gibson Girl blouses came out with attractive pleats and pleats that women wore every day, and some of them were a bit dressier and could be worn on a date:

The years between the two world wars

In the 1920s, blouses were designed with different models and new collar shapes. At that time, halter neck silk blouses and chelsea blouses were in fashion. The sleeves of these blouses were very diverse and could be short, long, three-quarter and bell-shaped.

From World War II onwards

In the 1930s, blouse collars became larger and wider; But in the 1950s, smaller collars came back into fashion. Two decades later, blouses with rounded collars and very wide collars became popular. At this time, blouses were often made of synthetic fabrics such as polyester. Later in the 1980s, new blouses came on the market with stand-up, fedora, BB, revere, and hidden buttons, often made from thinner synthetic fabrics.

In terms of blouse length, at the end of the 20th century, very long blouses became fashionable, which were worn over trousers or skirts and tied with a wide belt. These blouses were more common in Germany, Holland, Belgium, Denmark, Poland, England, Ireland, South Africa and North America.

Austin blues also saw many changes in the era after the World War. For example, in the early 1950s, short sleeves were particularly fashionable in Europe; While before that, they tried to make the sleeve long enough to reach below the elbow and make the person’s arm look slimmer. In the 1990s, three-quarter sleeve blouses were very popular; But since the mid-2000s, sleeveless blouses have also become fashionable.

Today’s blouses

Today’s blouses are the continuation of the same styles that were trending in the past; However, they have taken on a contemporary look. Many of the styles of the 1970s and 1980s have been replicated many times since the 2000s with modern twists on blues. Double cuffs, pointed collar, belt and many features of old blouses are also seen in today’s blouses.

Types of women’s blouses and their characteristics

So far, we have learned about blues, its history and its main features. Now let’s know the types of women’s blouses.

1. Peasant blues

The peasant blouse is inspired by the peasant clothing of the 1860s. At that time, this blouse was a simple garment with elastic around the waist, cuffs and collar. Its new models may or may not have some of these features. They are usually made of soft and breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton. Peasant blouse may have short or long sleeves; But in any case, these sleeves are a little puffy, and this is due to the cuffs. This blouse is casual and can be paired well with jeans or shorts.

2. Bow tie blouse

As the name suggests, the bow blouse has a bow on the collar. Its style is classic; But it has never lost its popularity. As you can see, the bow of this blouse is soft and has a beautiful fall. The bow tie is attached to the blouse itself, and it is often made from the fabric of the blouse itself; But sometimes it may be cut from a different fabric and attached to the dress. These blouses are usually considered semi-formal or office casual and therefore they can be suitable for the work environment.

3. Left-wing blues

Left-right blouses are stylish and comfortable. The design of these blouses is such that the fabric is stretched from both sides crosswise to the left and right and is tightened around the chest, shoulder and stomach. The collar of these blouses is often open and may give you a bold style; So be careful about this. Many people pair it with a top to get more coverage. Left-right blouses are versatile and you can wear them in both formal and casual situations.

4. Peekaboo blouse

Peekaboo blouse is one of the beautiful models of blouses and it has different types. The main feature of this blouse is that parts of the dress are cut so that the skin is visible from underneath. Although these incisions are most often placed on the collarbone area, they can also be on the shoulder or anywhere else. If the cut is in the chest area, the collar of the blouse is designed long and the bottom is cut so that the skin is visible. Of course, in some of its models like the picture, instead of cutting a part of the dress, two pieces of fabric are sewn together in a way that creates the same composition without cutting the fabric. A peekaboo blouse can be suitable for casual occasions.

5. Doll blouse

Babydoll blouses are no longer as popular as they used to be; But still some people are interested in them. They may trend again in the near future; What does anyone know? In this blouse, an elastic band is sewn just below the chest to make it pleated. The rest of the dress is wide below the chest and gives you a doll-like appearance.

Some doll blouses are sleeveless, some have long puffed sleeves and some have short puffed sleeves. These blouses can be paired with jeans or support pants.

6. Off-shoulder blouse

Off-shoulder blouses expose the shoulders and collarbones and add a lot of charm to your style. These blouses are stylish and can be suitable for friendly parties, evening parties and even weddings. Women with elongated shoulders, backs and arms look best with off-shoulder blouses. If you don’t want to have a bold style, these blouses are not suitable for you. Also, if your chest or shoulder area is too bulky, it is better not to choose this blouse. Its model and cut is such that it highlights exactly the area that is prominent enough in you. So it doesn’t seem like a good choice.

For off-shoulder blouses, hoop earrings and short necklaces are the best accessories.

7. Cold shoulder blouse

Cold shoulder blouses are similar to peekaboo blouses. Despite the fact that the parts cut in peekaboo can be in the collar, sleeves and other places of the dress; But for these blouses, it is only in the shoulder area. These blouses strike a balance between modern and traditional styles. In these blouses, a part of the shoulder is cut and removed or it has a slit; Because of this, your shoulder will be exposed.

8. Peplum blouses

Blouses that are divided into two parts right on the waist line with a belt, strap or seam, and the lower part looks like a short skirt, are called peplums. The peplum blouse precisely designs the hourglass silhouette and makes you look slimmer. This blouse is also stylish and makes a great combination with a pencil skirt. It is more suitable for bodies that do not have a defined waistline. For example, apple-shaped bodies can easily wear a peplum blouse.

9. Asymmetric blouses

One of the types of women’s blouse is asymmetric blouse. Since most blouses are symmetrical, this type of blouse can give you a different style. Where the blouse pattern loses its symmetry can be the collar, bottom hem or sleeves. The variety in the cut of these blouses makes its models innovative and unique. However, if you don’t like to draw a lot of attention, don’t choose this model.

An asymmetrical blouse can suit all women, regardless of their body shape. Just choose its color, design and cut to match your body shape.

10. Blouses or jackets

Coat blouses, as the name suggests, look like coats and can be worn over tops or other clothes. In the past, these blouses were worn by people in social events such as the opening of art galleries; But today it has become a favorite trend of ordinary women.

You can wear this blouse in any situation from day to night. If you want to have a professional look, a linen blouse is better; But for a party or special occasion, you can choose a blouse made of silk or satin.

This blouse can be a better choice for women who are petite or pear-shaped. However, this does not mean that others cannot wear it. Everyone can try a different model of blouse according to their body shape. For example, with just a belt, this blouse will easily fit an apple-shaped body.

11. Transparent blouses

Transparent blouses are made from fabrics such as net, silk and the like. More than anything else, a transparent blouse can be the epitome of femininity, class and elegance. These fabrics themselves are very stylish; Therefore, the simpler your blouse model is, the better it will look. For example, if your blouse is lace, avoid adding too many accessories or embellishments. If you want to accessorize, a small classic accessory like pearl earrings or a delicate pearl necklace is enough.

Lining is usually used under these clothes; But some models are unlined and you have to wear a top under them. You can pair it with a leather jacket or lace skirt.

12. Long blouses

Blouses that have a long length are a classic and conservative choice, because they completely cover the stomach and sides, and because they are loose, they blur body defects.

This blouse is completely functional and any woman with any body shape can count on it. If you like to have a more modern and attractive look, pair it with jeans or straight pants.

13. Strapless blouses

These blouses are an old and attractive heirloom from the 1990s. At that time, women who appeared in music videos of pop and hip-hop artists wore these blouses. Strapless blouses are still in fashion.

For under this blouse, be sure to find a suitable strapless bra that is strong enough; Because it has no clause to support it. If you want to accessorize, a chain and some small stud earrings are enough. Simply tie your hair up to complete your chic style.

Next, we categorize blouses based on common collar models.

14. Round neck blouse

A round neck blouse is a blouse with a classic style that never goes out of fashion. This blouse has a simple round neck that can be easily worn in different situations. You can try it with pants and skirts. A round neck blouse is more suitable for people with long faces.

15. Square collar blouse

This blouse is also called clay collar. A square collar is more modern than a round collar, and its clean lines and sharp edges can make you stand out from the crowd. Depending on the depth of the neckline, this blouse can give you a bold or subtle look. A turtleneck blouse is not attractive for people with square faces and sharp jaws.

16. Seven collar blouse

Round neck blouses draw the attention of others to the face and neck. For a bold look, you can choose a slightly more open turtleneck, and for a subtle and simple look, you can choose a tighter turtleneck. If you have a round face, this blouse will balance it well.

17. Barbell collar blouse

Halter neck blouses are also very common. The collar of this blouse is long and wraps around the neck, while the shoulders and back are open. For this reason, these blouses are also called back neck. Their style is stylish and modern and they will be a better choice for parties and special occasions. It is more suitable for people who do not have a bulky upper body and a large chest.

18. Blouse with high collar

This collar model is also very common in blouses. A high collar covers the entire neck area, just like a turtleneck, stand-up collar, or turtleneck. Blouses with this type of collar give a royal and elegant look and are therefore ideal for formal events or occasions. They are often made with intricate designs or beautiful embroideries.

If you have a narrow and long upper body and neck, these blouses can suit your body well. It is better to use lighter fabrics, because if you wear a thick fabric that covers you from the neck down, it will destroy the elegance of your style.

19. U-neck blouses

This collar looks beautiful on everyone with any body shape. However, note that the cut of this collar draws the most attention to the chest. If you prefer this area not to be too visible, avoid choosing this blouse. With this charming blouse, a statement necklace is a better choice; Because these necklaces are big and busy and can cover the neck space beautifully.

The following article is dedicated to the category of blouses based on the sleeve model.

20. Puff sleeve blouse

The sleeves of these blouses are puffy in the shoulder area and gradually extend to the bottom of the sleeve. The appearance of this dress is completely unique and attractive. Since the nature of the blouse is its comfort and looseness, this type of sleeve shows the characteristics of the blouse more than anything else.

21. Sleeve chenille blouse

These blouses have sleeves that cover the arm and create a graceful and stylish look. Because they look like capes, they are called cape sleeves. Sleeve chenille blouses look more formal than other blouses and thus, are more suitable for special parties.

22. Kimono sleeve blouse

The design of these blouses is inspired by traditional Japanese clothes, and their model is such that they have cloche sleeves and the front of the dress is left-right. Depending on the fabric, you can wear these blouses in casual situations or friendly parties or birthday parties.

23. Bell sleeve blouses

In blouses that have bell sleeves, the sleeve flares right from the elbow or wrist. This blouse is not suitable for people who have large stomach and hips, like a pear-shaped body. Because the width of the sleeve makes them look wider.

24. Long sleeve blouses

Blouses with sleeves are a good choice for women whose arms are long but not muscular. If these blouses have ruffles on the wrist, shoulder or lower edge, they will be more attractive. You can even choose a cloche or slightly wide sleeve model. You will not need accessories for such blouses; They are model enough.

The difference between women’s blouses and tops, button-down shirts and t-shirts

Many people in different cultures confuse blouses with shirts, tops and t-shirts. For example, in America, any upper body clothing, from shirts and blouses and tops to t-shirts and sportswear, is called a shirt. While most countries have reserved the shirt for formal button-down clothing worn by men and women under coats. In India, the tight clothes worn under the sari are called blouses. While technically they are completely different from each other. In our country, any upper body clothing, whether it is for men or women, may be called a blouse. Many people in Iran consider knitted pullovers as blouses.

Here we want to clarify the difference between women’s blouses and all other clothes.

The difference between a blouse and a button-down shirt

The fact is, it is somewhat understandable to confuse a button-down shirt with a blouse; Because these two types of clothing are completely similar. However, there are fundamental differences between them that we will examine below. We will also explain the difference between blouses and tops and t-shirts.

The buttoned shirt, which we call a man’s shirt in Iran, has six important differences from the blouse:

1. Gender blouses and shirts

A very important point about shirts and blouses is that shirts have no gender; But the blouse is only for women. Of course, note that the shirt, i.e. the white button-down shirt worn under formal and office coats, was originally for men and later entered women’s wardrobes. For this reason, today it is considered genderless. This is despite the fact that blues was originally for men and then it was assigned to women.

tip: As we said, a blouse can have or no buttons or just a few buttons. That blouse model that looks exactly like a button-up shirt and has a lot of buttons on the front is the one you are probably familiar with. So paper is a type of blouse, but not all blouses are paper.

2. The difference in the collar model

Both shirts and blouses can have different types of collars, but the number of shirt collars is more limited. The shirt can have a button-up collar, a Windsor collar, a tab collar, or a frock collar; But the blouse has more types of collars including BB, round, tie, bow tie, shawl collar, Chelsea, square, seven, long collar and many other collars.

3. The width of shirts and blouses

Men’s shirts can only be tailored, fitted, casual, classic, or muscle cut button-down shirts. Almost all women’s blouses are loose. Even the ones with the least amount of looseness are still comfortable and free and do not stick to the skin.

4. The number and type of button arrangement

All button-down shirts, without exception, have a large number of buttons that are small on the center line of the front. All buttons are visible. This is while the blouse may not have buttons at all, it may have several buttons, or it may have a vertical row of buttons like a shirt. Basically, the buttons are hidden in the blouse; But it can not be hidden. Some blouses have buttons at the back of the neck, in which case the blouse model should have a long collar.

Regarding the arrangement of buttons, button place and shirazeh (jadkemeh) in the blouse is the opposite of the shirt. That is, in the shirt, the buttons are on the left and the buttonhole is on the right; But in blouses, the buttons are placed on the right side and the buttonhole is on the left side. The reasons for this are unclear and there are several theories without conclusive evidence:

• Dry cleaners made this common so that they could distinguish women’s blouses from men’s shirts;
• This custom arose in the Middle Ages to distinguish rich people from ordinary people;
• This design was designed into armor so that right-handed warriors could easily draw a weapon with their right hand without the end getting caught in the front seam of their clothing.
• And another theory says that in the olden days, men used to dress themselves, so placing the button on the left side made it easier to button up. While women did not dress themselves and the servants did it for them. So it was easier for them to have the buttons on the right side!

5. Length of blouse and shirt

Blouses vary in length. They can be a little lower than the waist, on the hip bone or on the big buttock, they may even reach below the knee. It all depends on their model.

About the shirt, we only have two lengths. One is quite long enough to fit inside pants or skirts without sticking out. It is a height for the work environment and gives it a formal and tidy look. The second is placed on pants or skirts. This shirt length is only suitable for casual situations.

6. being official

A shirt has a more formal look than a blouse; Because most button-down shirts have a tailored style. Of course, it should be said that some blouses may be more formal than some shirts. For example, a blouse made of silk organza or silk with a nice bow collar is more formal than a collared shirt that is pants-length. The shirt is often made of linen or other practical fabrics, and it is less often made of luxury fabrics.

A shirt worn with khaki chino pants is not that formal; But the same shirt becomes official with a suit at work.

The difference between women’s blouses and shirts at a glance

The difference between a blouse and a top

Blouse is a women’s dress; But a top is a general term to refer to any garment designed for the upper body. Many people use blouse and top interchangeably. In some cases, tops are used to refer to women’s clothing that is informal. While blouses are a little more formal.

Technically, they are also different. In general, the top is more body; But the blouse is almost always comfortable and free.

The difference between a blouse and a T-shirt

A blouse and a t-shirt are very different, so it’s much easier to tell them apart. A t-shirt is a rectangular garment whose sleeve protrudes from the shoulder and if you spread it, it looks like the English letter T. This garment was first used as an undershirt in the army and became very popular. Now everyone around the world has at least one t-shirt in their wardrobe.

T-shirts are not official. Most of them are decorated with various graphic designs, phrases and sentences. Their lack of formality is due to the fact that they are often made of stretchy fabrics, unlike a blouse, which can be made of silk and silk, making it a stylish and formal outfit.

final word

In this article, we talked about the types of women’s blouses and told about its history and features. We have seen that the blouse is a free and comfortable dress and it can be made from all kinds of luxurious and ordinary fabrics. Accordingly, the blouse can be casual or formal. We also talked about the difference between blouses and shirts, tops and t-shirts so that you know them well and if you go shopping, you know exactly what clothes you want.

Many sporty women don’t want to wear blouses. Blues are very soft and feminine and do not mix very well with being sporty. What is your preference? Do you prefer sports clothes or women’s blouses? Please share your views with us.