Ways To Style An Off-The-Shoulder Top For An Effortless Look

Is there anything cuter than an off-the-shoulder top? The short answer here is definitely "no"; it's universally flattering and works well all year round. Admittedly, though, we sometimes get into a bit of a rut with our shoulder-baring looks — and wear that same (safe) top we've had for years. But we're here with oodles of off-the-shoulder inspiration to help shake things up. Most importantly, this collection is meant to be a loving reminder that even ultra-chic looks can be effortless to put together.

In a very intentional power move, we're kicking it off with this gorgeous off-the-shoulder crochet moment from artist @mayalunacorazon. Her handmade creations prove that one of the easiest ways to create a standout style is to search for unique pieces. That might be handmade goods like this or items from a thrift or consignment store. For example, a few of our inclusions use standard tops — in larger sizes — to achieve the off-the-shoulder look. So, it's easy to add more swagger by shopping in places with unique or vintage pieces. In the end, you can have a cool collection of shoulder-skimming tops by being open to various shopping experiences and applying these styling tips.

If your storage space or closets are limited and you're only going to buy one off-the-shoulder top, a jet-black look will never fail you. For this classic take on the bare-shoulder look, model @eliserae_bu wears a simple cable knit top with an oversized cut, allowing it to slide off the shoulder for a cute moment. Definitely a contender for your go-to off-the-shoulder style, a black top pairs well with everything from leggings to skirts.

Not only is it giving low-key '80s throwback vibes, but this off-the-shoulder sweatshirt look is as effortless as it is cute. Pro-aging style influencer @fwortytude_style built this look with a simple black and purple color scheme but made it pop with a graphic sweatshirt and a bold sneaker. In addition, she layered a thick-strap tank under the off-the-shoulder top, giving it a chic athletic edge. To replicate this look, search for a sweatshirt with a wide neck opening or buy up a few sizes.

You gotta love a peplum waist top of any kind, but when you find an off-the-shoulder version, buy two. Here, @boutiquerougebr pairs a smocked-waist peplum top with raw hemmed denim shorts in bright white. The fully elasticized neckline is designed to be worn off both shoulders, and the stretchy material is ultra-flattering. This sunny-shoulders look is cute for summer because the smocking around the waist creates a leveled-up look, but the distressed denim keeps it easy and casual.

This elegant outfit is checking all the boxes. It's a chic look that starts with an olive-hued V-neck sweater. The shape of the neckline is nicely offset by the angular slit in the khaki-colored skirt, and the slouchy chocolate clutch perfectly matches the comfy vibe of the sweater. But, what really makes this aesthetic stand out is the pin on the front of the sweater. Not only does the pearl detailing add an upscale touch, but it alters the fit of the top so that it mimics an hourglass shape and mirrors the lines of the neck angles.

Here's how we imagine the off-the-shoulder look was invented. Someone wore a V-neck, which accidentally slipped off the shoulder — and voilà! Well, it's still one of the easiest ways to rock the feminine look, so inventory your closet as a first step. Of course, specific cuts and materials work better than others. For example, a slim-fit V-neck might not have enough give in the fabric to wear it off the shoulder. Instead, look for a roomier shape and somewhat slouchy fabric, like this @giatrends inspiration.

In a sea of monochromatic spice-inspired looks in hues of cinnamon and matcha, stand out with a a pretty burst of color. This look is giving edgy-casual, but also just a hint of sass with that contrasting bra strap. There are endless ways to replicate this chill fit — just start with a clean, monochromatic base shade, and choose a top that pops with a different hue.

We love everything about this off-the-shoulder look, especially the drama. But, of course, the exaggerated balloon style dominates the outfit in the best possible way. You can keep the outfit simple in this scenario since the top makes such a bold statement. Given what a maximalist moment this billowy sweater-dress is, keeping accessories to a minimum is a fabulous way to let a stunning piece speak for itself. 

Overalls — and their cutie cousin, shortalls — have an undeniable appeal. They're comfy and cute and have a chameleon-like quality that — with the right accessories — makes them fit right just about anywhere. In this simple-to-create summer look, Instagram influencer @fashionjunkie0212 offers some easy-to-implement off-the-shoulder inspiration. Her fitted tan shortalls have a sleek, tailored look, so pairing them with a slim fit off-the-shoulder top creates continuity. Plus, the bare shoulders and cute shortall straps create a pretty neckline.

We're just over here, creating plans that vibe with this outfit posted by @natalieequinniee. It'll be a jammed-packed weekend meandering the farmer's market, going to a wine tasting, and catching an outdoor concert. We love the idea of this black one-shoulder athleisure set being the basis for this chic, casual look. The crop-top style is on-trend, and the set can be styled for a boho fit, paired with your favorite cowboy hat or a cute denim jacket. Most importantly, it's easygoing and comfortable!

We would all have at least three off-the-shoulder tops in a perfect world. Our top picks would be a versatile black option, a dramatic statement-making look, and then one flowy AF version in an elegant material, like this one posted by digital creator @thenuriarose. The fact that this one is a neutral blush shade of pink makes it easy to style and instantly dresses up a pair of jeans. She kept the accessories simple, which lets the sheer puff sleeves and scarf-like details have the entire spotlight.

French women — and beloved part-time Parisians like those in "Emily in Paris" — are famous for their simple, chic style. As part of this fashion lore, they often pair classic patterns, like stripes, with solid colors. This fit also exemplifies the subtle femininity of an off-the-shoulder short-sleeve top. It's not overly revealing but gives a decisive nod to understated beauty. To echo this vibe, look for an off-the-shoulder top with stripes in a fitted style. That will achieve this effortless-yet-refined look.