You've heard it here first—the trendiest summer tops share this one common feature.
Whether I'm on my morning walk to Pilates in North West London or leisurely walking through the city's East along the canals and graffiti-covered streets to dine at a trendy restaurant after work, one trend remains consistent—sleeveless tops. Regardless of the differences in these distinct neighborhoods, they share a common feature: the noticeable display of shoulders, biceps, and bare arms per capita. I can hear you thinking, “It’s summer, the perfect time to show some skin!” I completely agree. I’m not complaining at all. I, too, appreciate the variety of tank tops and fine-knit vests available that allow us to reveal parts of our bodies that are usually concealed due to Britain’s dreary weather. However, as an experienced fashion writer, I feel it’s my duty to highlight something I’ve noticed emerging on the streets.
What intrigues me most is not just that Londoners have embraced the sleeveless top trend in their everyday lives, but that this style has coincided with its emergence on runways and in high-street fashion. For example, take the recent presentations of the autumn/winter 2025 Haute Couture collections. At Schiaparelli, Daniell Rosberry introduced a tuxedo-inspired jacket that appears to have been cut exactly at the seam where the sleeve meets the bodice. At Chanel, a similar effect was achieved using their classic tweed; yet, it was the feather and silk halter neck top with a peplum detail that reminded me most of the styles I often see while wandering through the English capital.
It's easy to attribute this trend to the arrival of sunny weather, but I don't believe that's the sole reason, especially considering how sophisticated high-street brands like COS are pushing the boundaries of sleeveless tops with sheer tunic-style designs featuring built-in hoods. Georgie Dorfman, founder of the Los Angeles-based ready-to-wear brand All My Love, explains that the allure of sleeveless tops lies in their uncomplicated nature. “They are the easiest pieces to style,” she asserts. The designer further notes that our shared affinity for a minimalist aesthetic has shifted our focus. Instead of designs marked by prints or colors, we are drawn to pieces that highlight shape or fabric, which fundamentally defines the sleeveless top trend. She remarks, “There has been a significant rise in quiet luxury over the last few years,” adding that sleeveless tops embody this trend. “The relaxed, effortless look is incredibly in vogue right now, and sleeveless tops have that lived-in quality that is highly sought after.”
Personally, what I find most appealing about the sleeveless top trend is that there are no restrictions on style. As long as the design terminates at the collarbone, it qualifies. This encompasses a wide range of options, from scarf blouses like the knitted pieces recently introduced by St. Agni to the charming lace-trimmed camisoles designed by Dôen, as well as popular shirred tops that emerge at this time of year. With such an array of styles available, what should you be on the lookout for? Dorfman advises that sleeveless tops should feature a sufficiently low armhole to prevent underarm bulge, maintain their shape, and sit just right at the hips. She also suggests opting for styles made from premium materials like silk or wool blends, as “they are a bit more elevated compared to cotton styles.” Given that this “trend” is all about personal expression and finding styles that cater to your preferences, the shopping possibilities are limitless.
Below, I've put together a curated selection of my favorite styles currently on the market, categorized to help you find what you like best.
**The 4 Biggest Sleeveless Top Trends of 2025**
1. **Knitted Vests**
**Style Notes:** While sleeveless tops typically shine in warm weather, knits such as cashmere and wool can also be worn in milder climates. This season, cotton tanks have been replaced with high-quality yarns, providing a textured update to classic tank silhouettes that elevate their luxury appeal.
**Shop the Trend:**
- **Reformation**: Monaco Cashmere Reversible Tank – This reversible piece is made from 95% recycled cashmere and offers incredible value, almost like getting two tops for the price of one.
- **Arket**: This jersey style, recognized for its quality, is technically a knit despite being slightly more sheer, ensuring breathability and machine-washability.
- **COS**: Knitted V-Neck Tank Top – A stylish scoop neck in the chic butter yellow shade.
2. **Polka Dots**
**Style Notes:** Reviving the late 19th century's charm, polka dots are making a bold return like never before. As we embrace a “less is more” philosophy this season, it's easy to see why polka dot sleeveless tops have gained traction. When wearing streamlined outfits, two
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You've heard it here first—the trendiest summer tops share this one common feature.
It has the approval of designers.
