Is it just us, or have summer tops gotten way more complicated than they need to be in recent years? Unless you're content to just wear an oversize tee every day (which, don't get us wrong, we love as much as the next person), the options for cute summer tops that aren't going to have you melting within five minutes are few and far between.
Most of the popular shirt styles that flood Instagram feeds these days are some confusing, impractical variation of scarf or bandana. Trust us, you're not alone if you've received a tiny, sheer rectangle of printed fabric in the mail after buying a totally adorable '70s-inspired halter top online. And while those daring shirts can definitely be stylish when worn properly, we don't want to have to watch a YouTube video just to know how to get dressed in the morning.
Enter: the wrap top. Wrap tops have all the playfulness of a scarf top with a bit more comfort and coverage. More often than not, they can be adjusted with a tie belt to perfectly contour to your body shape, creating a super-flattering effect. Aside from the central feature of a crisscross bodice flowing from a cinched waist, wrap tops come in all different silhouettes, colors, and fabrics — choose between a fitted athleisure look or a bold, statement-making style.
We rounded up some of the best wrap tops available now, so you don't have to struggle over your summer shirt collection anymore.
Banana Republic Threadsoft Belted Wrap Top
With cap sleeves and a tie belt, the Banana Republic Threadsoft Belted Wrap Top [1] ($34, originally $50) is all about the details. Choose between white, navy, and gray.
Ganni Crinkled Jacquard Oversized Ruffled Wrap Top
The Ganni Crinkled Jacquard Oversized Ruffle Wrap Top [2] ($395) is an avant-garde rendition of the wrap top. From the boxy, voluminous fit to the metallic sheen of this fabric, it's impossible not to make a statement in this piece.
Banana Republic Sleeveless Wrap Top
One of the greatest perks of wrap tops, like this Banana Republic sleeveless option [3] ($48, originally $70), is that you can adjust them to perfectly fit your body by simply tying the belt tighter or looser. Style the yellow color of this top with white jeans and espadrilles for a summery look.
& Other Stories Ruffle Wrap Top
This ballerina-pink & Other Stories Ruffle Wrap Top [4] ($40, originally $69) is the stuff of fairy-tale dreams. Snag it now while it's on sale.
Wilfred All Tied Up Sweater
Let this Wilfred All Tied Up Sweater [5] ($50, originally $78) be the staple piece to transition your wardrobe between seasons. The ribbed, cropped top comes in 10 different colors and is best paired with a silky A-line miniskirt.
Banana Republic Threadsoft Wrap Top
Combat chilly office air conditioning with the long-sleeved version of the Banana Republic Threadsoft Wrap Top [6] ($45). The soft, stretchy fabric means you don't have to sacrifice comfort when dressing professionally.
Solid & Striped The Willow Printed Wrap Top
The leafy, verdant print of the Solid & Striped The Willow Printed Wrap Top [7] ($140) makes us want to book a tropical vacation ASAP! You can complete the set with matching belted shorts and a swimsuit.
Diane von Furstenberg Mirella Stretch-Milano Knit Wrap Top
DVF is the veritable queen of the wrap style, with her colorful wrap dresses becoming her signature in the 1970s. This striking Diane von Furstenberg Mirella Stretch-Milano Knit Wrap Top [8] ($248) has a flattering tight fit and can be dressed up with a matching midi skirt or dressed down with jeans.