Outfit Formula: The Tunic Top

A classic tunic top is one of our readership’s favorite styles.

And for a good reason, it is an effortless, chic summer style that can take you so many places. 

I talk a lot about picking wardrobe items you can mix and match at least three different ways. But today’s key piece is a great example of why we state our advice as guidelines and not rules. 

Yes, mix and match is the best way to optimize your budget and options.

However, much like a dress, a tunic is a piece that is what it is. 

What you lose in wardrobe versatility you make up for in all the places you can wear it. 

So for today’s outfit formula, we are breaking it all down.

Outfit Formula #23: The Tunic Top

 

Lace Trim Tunic, $89.50 | High Waisted Straight Ankle Jeans, $40 | Stretch Twill Shorts, $78 | Chevron Hoop Earrings, $30 |Pearl Cocktail Ring, $48 | Woven Leather Sandals, $148 

So let’s start with the tunic. 

You can spend a fortune on one if you like.

For today’s formula, I’m keeping it under $100 with this navy and white trim option from Talbots. Available in regular, plus, petite, and plus petite.

It reminds me of Lily Pulitzer, at least the solid color styles I prefer. 

For the bottom, you have two options—an ankle-length straight/skinny bottom or a pair of shorts.

Above, we’re featuring our Reader Favorite Old Navy High Waisted Straight Ankle Jean, still on sale for 25% off of $40. 

Personally, I would opt for the shorts because I like the balance and contrast you get pairing a long sleeve shirt with a short.

And I’m excited about these shorts by Spanx. They have a 6″ inseam and come in many colors, with sizes XS – 3X. 

But you can wear your favorite shorts at the length you feel most comfortable in. Just be sure that the shorts are unadorned with a clean line. 

Finally, we’re on to accessories.

Something about a tunic makes me want to lean into wealthy Palm Beach grandmother vibes, but with a modern twist. 

So a pair of detailed gold-tone hoops to start. I was excited to find this gold-plated pair, originally $125 but marked down to $30 at Nordstrom Rack. 

And a cocktail ring covered in pearls, because why not. This one is surprisingly affordable at Anthropologie. 

Finally, a classic pair of Jack Rogers sandals, also in gold, is the perfect summer shoe for the look, taking you anywhere from poolside to dinner. 

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Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers. 

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail. 

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