As you can tell by their name, asymmetrical tops are purposefully designed with uneven or irregular necklines or hemlines. They come in various styles, including one-shoulder tops, off-shoulder tops, and tops with multiple angles or cuts in them. When worn, these tops create intriguing and dynamic silhouettes that flatter various body types. For that very reason, they’ve become a fast favorite among some of the most daring and fashion-forward individuals. I only have one asymmetrical top, but with thse tips I now will buy the top I have in my Zara cart!
If you’re the type of person who’s used to plain T-shirts and polo shirts with symmetrical lengths and cuts, then the asymmetrical top may pose a challenge to you. But despite their daring appearance, these tops aren’t as difficult to style as you think. Stray just a little farther away from your comfort zone, and you’ll find that you, too, can look good in an asymmetrical top without needing to overhaul your personal style.
The key to wearing an asymmetrical top with confidence and poise lies in striking a balance between the top and the rest of your outfit. To illustrate, here are some simple tips for incorporating the “artfully mismatched” aesthetic into your wardrobe and crafting stunning new outfits out of asymmetrical shirts, blouses, and halters:
Pair an Asymmetrical Top with High-Waisted Bottoms or a High-Waisted Skirt
One effective way to temper the bold cut and length of an asymmetrical top is to pair it with some high-waisted bottoms or skirts. High-waisted denim leggings, jeans, trousers, or pencil skirts, for example, will achieve a flattering and visually appealing silhouette for you, as they will accentuate your waist and elongate your legs.
Try starting with a plain solid-colored asymmetrical top and your favorite pair of high-waisted bottoms or your most reliable high-waisted skirt. Then, build the rest of your outfit around what you think works for you.
Create a Pleasing Contrast with Fitted Bottoms
For a balanced and well-proportioned ensemble that will still emphasize the boldness of your asymmetrical top, wear the latter with some well-fitted bottoms. Skinny jeans or tailored pants will work particularly well with flowy and loose asymmetrical tops.
Be Strategic about Layering and Accessorizing
Layering is another strategy you can employ when styling an asymmetrical top. A leather jacket, denim jacket, or cardigan can be thrown over your halter, shirt, or blouse to add dimension to your outfit and prepare you for different social settings at the same time. You can pull your outer layer over your top during a dressy dinner, for example, and then take it off when you’re having a more relaxed time at the bar or club.
It’s a good idea to opt for shorter jackets or cropped styles to keep the focus on your top’s asymmetrical silhouette. You may also want to accentuate the neckline with a bold necklace, or give the look an elegant finish with some statement earrings and some stacked bracelets or bangles.
Play Around with Proportions with a asymmetrical top
If you’re feeling adventurous, double-dare yourself to go out of your comfort zone and pair an asymmetrical top with bottoms of a similarly unusual length or cut. Mix and match different proportions to create visually interesting ensembles, like a long asymmetrical tunic top with cropped pants or a shorter asymmetrical top with high-waisted, wide-leg trousers. This approach will definitely keep your outfits from being one-note and help you discover unconventional silhouettes that look great on you.
Add a Belt and Play with Textures
To define your waist and create a more polished look out of a simple combination, consider adding a belt over your top. On top of adding structure by cinching your waist, this accessory will add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble. Wear a timeless black leather belt with a simple buckle over a metallic asymmetrical top and black pants, or pair a statement brocade belt over a flowy silk asymmetrical top.
Balance Asymmetrical Cuts and Lengths with Structured Pieces and Patterns
You can also balance the fluidity of an asymmetrical top with a more structured piece. A tailored blazer, a structured maxi skirt, or even a pair of structured boots can create a visually appealing contrast and make you appear effortlessly put together.
When you’ve gotten the hang of asymmetrical tops, you may also want to experiment in terms of patterns and prints. Wear a plain asymmetrical top with patterned bottoms, or the other way around, or even try rocking two different patterns at the same time. There’s nothing stopping you from unlocking multiple combinations that are pleasing to the eye.
Try Different Necklines and Hemlines
Lastly, don’t limit yourself to one type of neckline or hemline. Once you’ve mastered wearing the classic one-shoulder top, try wearing off-shoulder tops, V-neck tops, or tops with interesting halters. Go the extra mile by exploring tops with asymmetrical hemlines, like one whose longest tip ends at the waist or the thigh. This is how you’ll find flattering asymmetrical tops that just might become fixtures of your everyday wardrobe.
Just like for any other garment that you’re not used to wearing, it may take some time for you to warm up to asymmetrical tops. And to find your favorite way to style them. But with the tips listed above, you’re sure to find some winning combinations that you won’t mind busting out for both ordinary occasions and special events.
Master the art of playing with asymmetry, and you’ll be able to build a formidable fashion arsenal!
Although I can see the appeal, assymetrical tops (or assymetrical anything, really) aren’t really my thing. I am in awe of your outfit though, it’s just perfect, and I’m swooning over those yellow wide-legged trousers! xxx
Author
Oh I still love these trousers Ann, what a colour right? So I am presuming you are back home again? Hopefully we can read soon about your holiday!
Love your outfit here, Nancy – you look amazing! I like asymmetry in clothing in general, but I dislike having to do bra shenanigans with one-shoulder, halter or any off-the-shoulder looks. I prefer being able to wear a regular bra with my asymmetrical top.
Those are all good rules for pairing, and I appreciate the “experiment” advice!
Author
Well I actually wear a lace bra underneath. So I don’t care if it’s seen, don’t mind that at all.
They are so interesting and now that I have a comfy strapless bra, I love wearing them,
XOOX
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Author
Indeed, you can wear them now with not a problem at all!
I can never get enough asymmetrical tops! I adore the edgy vibe. These are great tips and love your look! The colors and fit are perfection!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Author
Thanks Kathrine!
I love asymmetrical clothing! I probably wouldn’t buy a one shoulder top, though, as I’m always cold in restaurants, museums, or anywhere inside! Thanks for the tips, Nancy!
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
Author
Yes me too, on the otherhand they are perfect for summer bbq s!
Nancy I love the one shoulder tops. I just need to find a good bra for my DD cup. Great styling tips.
Author
Yes indeed, that might be a challenge Hilda!
I really like asymmetrical tops and have a few.
Author
Perhaps that is a good theme! You gave me idea there!
Ooh love the top and seeing all of the varieties!
Author
Thanks Heather!
I think asymetrical tops are fun! This is one of my favorite outfit of yours: these pants are just amazing!
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Author
Thank you Mireille! I love them too, and I used to dislike yellow!
Nice top and the yellow color pant is lovely
https://www.melodyjacob.com/2023/06/how-to-protect-your-skin-from-serious-burns.html
Author
Thanks Melody!
Love the fashion and great tips, thanks for sharing Nancy. I love your outfit, you absolutely pulled off the asymmetrical top. The yellow pants look great on you Anna
Author
Thank you very much Anna!
I totally love the way you styled it. It’s perfect! And love lots of the choices here as well. They just add some sass to any look imo. xo Sabina
Author
I think so too, thanks Sabina!
Nancy, I absolutely adore this black and yellow outfit on you. Those pants are amazing! And the asymmetrical top is super sassy and elegantly fun. These are really great tips for styling the unique silhouette of asymmetrical tops!
Shelbee
Author
And I bought that grey one and that skirt!
I really like asymmetrical tops. I think asymmetrical top is using for fun but I like this top thanks for sharing us.
Author
Thank you!
I love your outfit! I’m a big fan of asymmetrical tops, I think they’re really flattering. Those yellow culottes are fabulous! It’s great to see you in a bright colour!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
This is a super look Nancy, the two colours look so good together and the top is cute on you too. Hope you’ll stop by the blog tomorrow, you’re favourite blogger with this one. Jacqui x
Author
Thank you very much Jacqui!