The Best Tunic Tops

Buying Guide

The tunic top is a versatile fashion staple that has a place in every closet. It can be worn as a shirt with pants or as a dress with leggings and a belt. It can even double as a cover-up at the beach.

What exactly makes a tunic a tunic? It’s all in the silhouette. A tunic top is generally long and drops to the hip, mid-thigh or just above the knees. The top is typically loosely fitted with short, three-quarter or long sleeves that may be flowy. Tunics can have a flat front or feature buttons down the middle.

When it comes to colors and patterns, there is no limit to what you can find on a tunic top. Traditionally, tunics were made from plain pieces of linen, but they have since expanded in terms of material, style, and fit. Now they are made with an array of colors, prints and patterns, from bold reds and simple stripes to eye-catching geometric patterns.

When considering fabric, note that cotton and cotton blends are a great choice for tunic tops. Cotton can have a casual or dressy feel, is cool and comfortable, and doesn’t wear out quickly. Cotton blends with polyester are hardy and durable and make a good choice for everyday wear. If you find a tunic that incorporates a bit of spandex into a cotton blend, this is also desirable, as it will have a bit of stretch for extra comfort.

Tunic tops can be flattering to any body type, which is one reason they remain popular. If you have an apple shape with a large bust and rounder body, go with a tunic top that falls past the hips. A longer length will help to elongate the body. If you want to cinch the waistline, choose a tunic top that has a wrap-around style. For those with an hourglass shape, opt for a tunic top that is stretchier; this will help the material to drape nicely around your curves. If you have a rectangular body shape, go with a v-neckline and a wrap-around style. Details such as fringe help to create the look of curves. Those who are petite should opt for pants and tunic tops in the same color family for a long and streamlined aesthetic.

Be sure to check the sizing chart to ensure you’re choosing the right one for your body. Measure your bust, hips and waist and compare those measurements to the sizing chart to select the size. Consider where the tunic is flowy and where it’s more fitted to find the right silhouette for your preferred look.

• The beauty of tunic tops is that they are highly versatile. If you’re going for a casual look on a summer day, pair a tunic top with biker shorts and running shoes or sandals. This is a great look for a relaxed outdoor afternoon.
• Tunic tops can also be dressed up. While they are actually shirts, longer tunic tops can be worn as dresses. Just add a pair of delicate heels or ballet flats as well as an eye-catching purse — and you’re ready to go!
• For chilly fall or spring days, tunic tops can be worn with pants such as jeans or khakis. Just be sure to get slim-cut pants to balance out the relaxed profile of your tunic top. You can also layer over the tunic top with a cardigan or a pullover sweater. If you’re going for the ultimate comfort, swap the pants out for stretchy leggings.
• Tunic tops pair well with skirts, too. Try a midi- or maxi-length skirt for a flowy silhouette. Add strappy flat sandals for a boho-chic vibe.
• Consider belting the tunic at the waist to accentuate your figure, whether you’re wearing it as a shirt or a dress.
• Care and maintenance for tunic topics depend on the material they’re made from. Be sure to look at the tag and follow manufacturer’s washing instructions. Some can go in the dryer at a low setting while others will need to be dried naturally.