The perfect blouses for the return to normal

As the slow journey back to ordinary life begins, it is with hesitancy that we adjust our wardrobes. After all, who knows what the ‘new normal’ will look like and, more crucially, what shoes we’ll need there. A blouse, which is dynamic, versatile and as perfectly suited to Zoom calls as it is an afternoon in the pub, is the perfect solution. And the great news is there are so many good ones around this season.

While dresses feel a little ‘too much’ for some, the blouse is a stepping stone back to a world before oversized hoodies and track pants. It’s the ultimate ‘re-entry’ purchase. Here is a guide to the best around, from the perfect peasant blouse to the best back-to-work shirts.

Where easy-breezy spring style solutions are concerned, all roads lead to a peasant blouse – not least because it’s the ultimate partner for denim. With cut-off shorts or your favourite pair of blues, a peasant blouse is an excellent choice. Seek out styles crafted from cotton and opt for an oversized fit where possible. When the summer months finally roll around, this shirt can double as a beach bag essential. 

Whether you embrace your wild side with an animal print or plump for a whimsical floral, a printed shirt is the wardrobe staple you never knew you needed. Indeed, a well-chosen printed blouse is more functional than you might think. And not just for your next round of Zoom calls. Team yours with barrel-cut jeans and sandals for a weekend look that will take you to the local beer garden and way beyond.

The world may be slowly returning to ‘normal’, but video calls are going nowhere. Futureproof your wardrobe by investing in a statement collared shirt that is loaded with Facetime-appeal. A striking Peter Pan neckline or a cutaway collar will add interest to even the most haphazard of WFH looks. Indeed, you can pop one on with your PJs. This shirt also works masterfully in the outside world. Team yours with a dirndl style skirt for a look that is fresh off the catwalk.

If your spring plans involve getting back to your desk, it may be that your workwear wardrobe is in need of a reboot. The back-to-work shirt is the perfect place to start this reinvention. Seek out classic shades – anything in Oxford blue or white is excellent – and look out for styles with slouch-appeal. The joy of this shirt is that it will add an air of professionalism to everything from black slacks to tracksuit bottoms. A box-fresh pair of trainers is an ideal companion for this look.

If you can get past its terrible name, the embarrassingly titled ‘shacket’ is a great trick to have in your style repertoire. In fact, with the UK’s weather as changeable as it is, this traditional style staple is wardrobe gold. On chilly mornings, layer yours over a roll-neck or a chunky knit. If the sun shines then sling it on over shorts and a T-shirt. You’ll return to this style for years to come.