I find that many of us tend to have more of one thing than others in our closets. Maybe you’re a shoe gal or a lover of handbags. Maybe you have loads of jeans or button-up shirts. Yeah, button-up shirts…that would be me. And jackets! I love jackets.
But the problem is that while many of us tend to purchase too many of one thing, we also have things we never seem to have enough of. Or maybe we just don’t have the right ones to create good outfits. In the spring, I tend to lack basic tops. I love buying jackets! But those jackets and other completer pieces need tops under them. So today I’m sharing a few tops from Madewell that I recently picked up to round out my spring wardrobe.
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I’ve discovered that the key to having the right basic tops in my closet for spring and summer is to choose those that are not really basic at all. Yes, I do need tops that are multifunctional, so they don’t need all the bells and whistles. But they also don’t need to be boring. I purchased three tops from Madewell that are versatile, but also have nice details.
Soft Ribbed Tank with Neck Trim
There are tanks…and there are tanks. In recent years I’ve noticed that close fitting tanks with wide trim on them look much neater, more polished and, simultaneously, more youthful than those with thin or no trim.
This soft ribbed tank is crafted in such a beautiful, regenerative-certified cotton (95%) and elastane (5%). So it feels gentle on the skin, skims the body and looks polished. I have it in the clear sky blue, but it’s also available in classic white and black, as well as a bold pollen yellow.
As much as I love to wear shirts buttoned up, I also love wearing them as a third piece. So it’s necessary to have a few well-fitted tanks on hand. I also like wearing them under my blazers. This tank is generously sized, so I’m wearing my normal medium for a really nice fit.
Ribbed Lace-Up Short-Sleeve Tee
While I do still think it is smart to have a couple of very basic crewneck and/or v-neck tees in your wardrobe, I’ve discovered that a more interesting neckline is a great way to elevate a simple spring outfit. The minute I saw this ribbed lace-up short-sleeve tee I knew it would look great under a denim jacket or other toppers.
And isn’t the pale blush color so pretty? The 58% cotton/37% TENCEL™ Modal/5% elastane top also comes in dark loden green, vintage ivory and a jet black stripe. It has short sleeves (not too short – not too long) that fit nicely even with my relatively chunky upper arms.
No need to tie those laces, by the way. They’re just the right length so you can let them hang loose for a casual look under your favorite jacket. I’m wearing mine under a stretch linen shacket from Evereve. My daughter Abigail and I both got one of these. In fact, four other women in the store at the same time got one, too! It’s such a great length and a gentle fit. I’m wearing a size medium in the tee and the jacket.
Lightweight Long-Sleeve Button-Up Tee
I still think it’s smart to have a couple of long-sleeve tees on hand during the spring (and even the summer), too. But you don’t have to go too basic.
This ribbed cardigan tee looks just a little extra, thanks to the gentle ribbing and the button placket with same color buttons. I’m wearing it in iced mint, but it also comes in vintage ivory and a beautiful delphinium blue.
This ribbed cardigan tee is a nice length to leave untucked and still get good proportions. Again, Madewell has generously sized this fitted top so I’m able to wear my usual size medium very comfortably. And yes, I purchased these in-store and did indeed try on the large in each of them. They were all too big. Trust me; go with your usual size in this fitted top for no regrets.
Right now you can get two of my anything-but-basic tops from Madewell for a discounted price. The lace-up tee and cardigan tee are 20% off. And many of the other items featured in today’s post are also discounted right now. Do you have the basic tees you need for spring?
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Blessed for My Day
I went close to 50 years without “trust issues.” Since I was raised in a home with parents I could always count on and I’d had friends who have still stuck with me to this day, I really didn’t have cause to distrust people. Sure, I knew there were untrustworthy characters around, but I hadn’t mixed and mingled with too many. Until I realized I had…
I went through a few difficult turns right in a row that made me skeptical of almost everyone in my life. I didn’t want to become jaded, however. Even though I’d experienced rejection, betrayal and abandonment by many people in my closest circle, I wanted to be able to make new friends, engage with authenticity, let my guard down around genuine friends and love. It was a lot of work to keep my heart soft through that hard time. The secret? I realized that God, who I know I can trust completely, had been working all things together for my good. If that was the case, then I didn’t need to allow bitterness to harden my heart. Instead I could accept the hurt that had come into my life as a blessing from God that would eventually benefit and bless me.
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. ~ Romans 8:28
I’ve never purchased anything from Madewell. I noticed that there’s a new Madewell in the shopping area where I often shop. I’ll have to check these out. I see some items for tall women as well. Thank you, Kay.
Such a nice addition to the basic tees. Don’t get me wrong, I love and rely on my srack of assorted tees so often but sometimes days just call for a little something-something.
Hey Kay. Nice selection of basic tops that will go with many outfits. I especially like the lace up top!
I like the long sleeve button up sweater. Would also look nice as a third piece. Glad you tried on the large and said it was too big. The site says it ran small. Glad you said you purchased your usual medium.
Thanks for showing what necklace to wear with tie Tshirt and what to do with ties. I always felt necklace too much to wear with this type of shirt and ties looke goofy not tied.
Nice tops! I am always looking for “better than basic” tops that are not clingy or too close-fitting to try to even my top and bottom proportions out – in the winter I can wear a sweater with texture and heft to add volume on top but it’s a lot trickier in the spring and summer so I often wear a tank under a button-front shirt but would like to just wear a top all by itself with confidence – well, maybe someday…
My lifestyle has gotten so much more casual in retirement, and these tees that are just a bit extra are calling my name! I have not shopped Madewell, but I have 2 tees in my cart now (I know you do show their items from time to time – I had just not clicked thru before!)
Hey Kay. I really like the Madewell lace up top. Looks like a great top for the warmer weather!
I love the pink T-shirt with the ties. I used to have a top like that years ago. I’m going to check it out. I find it hard to find a tank top that’s not too form fitting.
I like how you layered the spring tops! I loved the ribbed cardigan, it is a fresh take on a classic!
I love these elevated basics. I like unfussy but distinct pieces. I always feel better dressed in something with a little flair, even if I am home all day.
Oh, I like that madewell tank in pollen yellow and the cardigan tee in the delphinium blue. I’m the opposite of you, I have the basic tops, but I seem to always forget to put a third completer piece into my outfits. LOL! Your BFMD was powerful. Betrayal is a painful thing. And yes only God can get us through it.
Sorry you’ve been unwell. Glad you rested and are getting better. Thanks for sharing some of your personal testimony. That is such a great verse. It always sets me back on the right path! Love the ribbed lace up tee. Did you find it tricky at all as far as not showing your bra? I guess you could just cinch it up a bit. Thanks again for the many ways your blog meets our needs.
Thanks, Mel. No that top didn’t give me any trouble with my bra at all. I’m pretty small busted though, so I’m able to wear a bra with a plunging neckline.
Love the blush lace up T-shirt. Just takes the outfit up a notch!
I was glad to see you n my inbox. I worried you’d gotten really sick. I love the long sleeve button up t however, I’m never sure about ribbed fabric.
I have found out that good quality tees make the outfit. Thanks for the tips!
I love the tank you showed! I’ve purchased (and returned) this type of garment, but I can’t seem to keep my bra straps under the shoulder strap of the tank. Visible bra straps are not a style choice I prefer for myself.
Do you have a secret?
For me, what I never have enough of is outerwear coats/jackets. I hate cold weather, so I think it’s a denial thing. Perhaps when fall/winter is near you can suggest a modern all-purpose coat.
I often wear a racerback bra if needed under my tank tops. This one is very comfortable and good: https://rstyle.me/+tj0JI_ev6tn_sYAxaf6AFA Otherwise I wear a jacket or shirt over the tank, too. I don’t like bra straps to show either, but with the right bra you can rectify that.
I have never tried this brand. Glad you posted this article. Thanks!
My favorite is the tank under a button up shirt. I wear this combination often. It’s very practical here in central Texas. I like the other options too but our weather heats up so quickly that the time to wear them is very limited.
Love the blush top with the brown jacket – great color combination
Love these not so basic basics. I find I’m lacking in some of those basics although I did get a great tank with wider trim last year and I wore it all the time with so many different things
But I do think I could use a couple more tops to round out the wardrobe
I’ve always loved Madewell and their quality. They usually have good sales too.
I’ve never shopped at Madewell, but I just put a few items in my cart! Can’t wait to see how they fit!
Your comments on trusting God are on point!
Really like the lace up top. Had not heard about Madwell until today. Will have to check it out.
The shirts are great. The tan jacket looks awesome, too!
Good information on tops. Hope you are feeling better.
Love that linen jacket! The color is great for spring or fall.
I love the lace-up and button up tees. They really do elevate the outfit! Thanks for sharing those!
I finally signed up for Madewell Insider. Really like the sweater tee. So cute!
Nice tops. I especially liked the first one.
Hope you’re feeling better. I’ve been sick too. This is a nasty bug going around.
Love your outfit with the lace top, stretch jacket and white jeans! So adorable and casual looking yet very pulled together! I’ve seen many lace up tops advertised but they never did anything for me until today! You styled it so well and made it look so fun to wear that I’ve now become a fan ! So glad I am a daily reader of your posts. You have really helped me get out of my slump and get excited about getting dressed for my day. It’s really made a difference not in only how I look but how I feel about myself. I thank you for that. Thank you for all you do and also for your Blessed for my Day included in every post. They too have changed my life. Your words resonate and make me feel like I’m not the only one that feels like I do. And thank for for always offering and suggesting solutions to our daily struggles. Bless you Kay.
Romans 8:28 is such a good reminder of God’s plans for our lives. Never does He let his love lessons go to waste. I really enjoy your ministry!
Madewell has the natural fibers I love so much. I wish more companies would carry all cotton items.
“Basics that aren’t so basic” is a great concept. They may be tricky to find and define, but I think you’re right on target here, Kay! Thanks 🙂
I love jackets too! Thanks for showing different options to wear underneath that look great.
I love following your videos and posts for fashion advice. You turned me on to this world of fashion for women over 50. Now my 92 year old mother calls me a clothes horse because I always look “put together”. Even she notices a difference and she can’t see very well! But today, I read your “Blessed for My Day” post and it put into words what I have been feeling lately. Thank you for helping me respond to the betrayal I have experienced in a positive way – turning bad into good. As far a Is know, God of the Bible is the only one who can do that! I will continue to trust his provision.
I appreciate how you wear a tank with a shirt left open as a third piece. I always feel too boxy and weighted down with that look. I also LOVE jackets!
You are so right about having the right top to wear under a button-up! Love the color combo on yours with that lovely pale blue and the striped button-up! And thanks for the subtle reminder to get out my white pants for spring!!
I needed a top idea to go with my wider leg, thin denim pants (Talbots), so thanks for that! And thanks for your transparency in the Blessed for my Day section. I needed that as well.
I love the stretch linen shacket!!
My favorite is the v-neck tie!