I'm a fashion-savvy mom working in NYC—here are the stylish tops I pair with jeans and trousers.
Tessa Faye O'Connell is a contributor recognized for her work with various fashion brands, focusing on media and public relations, and currently holds the position of global PR director at Coach. She is also a mother of two and is working on increasing her presence in the fashion industry through styling, all while managing to leave the house on time. As we approach summer, which is fleeting in New York, I tend to prefer a shorts or pants ensemble when getting dressed. While it’s quick and simple to don a dress, I find that a top and pants can be more comfortable for commuting. Many of my friends share this sentiment and are on the lookout for quality tops to invest in. In an office setting with strong air conditioning, having a top that layers well can make one feel polished and at ease. Moreover, in New York's unpredictable weather, tops adapt better across seasons than dresses, which can be challenging to style with the constant changes in rain, sun, or snow. I appreciate having various options depending on the day, plans, or meetings, which allows for versatile styling. Here are my preferred tops to wear with jeans and trousers.
**Halter Top**
This halter top by Azeeza is genuinely my favorite new addition. You can pair it with a jean jacket for the office, wear it to dinner post-work, or match it with white linen pants—the possibilities are endless. This style is distinctly summer-focused, making it exciting.
**Azeeza**
- Winston Printed Poplin Top
- Venroy Cotton Poplin Halter Top in Pebble
- cos Twist Detail Linen-Blend Top
**Button-Down Shirt**
The button-down is suitable for every season; it just requires finding the ideal ones for summer. A bonus is that it can be stylishly thrown over a swimsuit, making it quite multifunctional. I've been enjoying this one from Almina Concept along with the brand's flowing white pants.
**almina concept**
- Shirt With Tie Belt
- DONNI The Linen Relaxed Shirt
- Reformation Eli Oversized Linen Shirt
- Frank & Eileen Eileen Blue and Navy Stripe, Italian Classic Linen
**Gingham Top**
Gingham is a favorite for me! While this piece resembles a jacket, I prefer to style it as a top, and I always receive compliments when I wear it. I adore this print during warmer months.
**rose room**
- Silk Gingham Jewelneck Jacket
- Loeffler Randall Nola Top
- J.Crew Tie-Front Top in Gingham
- VRG GRL Indi Top Brown Check
**Ruffle Top**
The ruffle Henri Top stands out in its own category. Many brands have attempted to replicate it, but I believe the fit is unmatched by any other brand aside from Dôen.
**Jacket as a Top**
I advocate for using a spring jacket as a top. This particular one comes with a cute matching camisole to wear underneath.
**Loeffler Randall**
- Winslet Jacket
- Maggie Camisole
- Ulla Johnson The Bobbi Cropped Jacket
- Hill House Home Tapestry Trellis Brocade
**Classic Black Top**
A classic black top is essential—there are numerous styles and aesthetics to choose from. In my view, investing in a black top is always a smart decision; it proves to be quite useful.
**Tuckernuck**
- Black Cotton Mandi Top
- THE GREAT The Scalloped Eyelet Tunic
- Wilfred Italic Poplin Blouse
**Floral Top**
It's clear that I'm a fan of floral patterns. I cherish this print for spring and summer, as it significantly brightens my mood when heading to the office.
**Ulla Johnson Neri Jersey Top**
**Tailored Top**
It took some time for me to embrace this style, but it is both polished and chic, making it suitable for pairing with trousers, jeans, or shorts.
**Veronica Beard Liana Button-Up Vest**
**FAITHFULL Mina Linen Peplum Top**
**White Top**
A white top is always a necessity. I also appreciate lace or eyelet detailing as an embellishment.
**ZARA**
- Satin Effect Blouse With Ruffles and Shoulder Pads
- Soeur White Hansel Blouse
- Re/done Jerry Tank Blouse
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