12 ‘waist-up’ items to add to your wardrobe for all kinds of video calls
There are now many reasons to dress ‘waist up’ - from work conference calls to low-key quiz nights. Join HLN's Bekki Ramsay in trying to steal the spotlight with her top ‘waist-up’ (pun intended) picks available online RN.
By Bekki Ramsay
I can’t say ‘waist-up dressing’ is something I thought would become a priority in my life but hey, I never anticipated I would become enough of an adult to start loving olives and red wine. I guess sometimes life hits you in mysterious ways.
Sometimes I like to drink my red wine whilst on Facetime as I have a catch-up with my friends and family. I mean, let’s be honest – digital drinks have become our go-to, making ‘waist up’ dressing more topical than ever.
In fact, today, there are many reasons to dress ‘waist up’ – from conference calls with work to low-key quiz nights. So why don’t you join me in trying to steal the spotlight with the top ‘waist-up’ (pun intended) picks below.
The good thing about a blazer? It can be dressed up for a video-call but dressed down with a slogan t-shirt for day-time wear. But do you know what’s a bonus with this blazer? It’s spring/summer’s hottest colour meaning you can flaunt your fashion knowledge, too.
Who said work shirts had to be boring? Definitely not Hush, with this colourful print that plays an ode to the humble cherry. Again, like the Zara blazer, this shirt can be dressed up for work and down for weekends by pairing it some with wide-leg trousers and some trainers for a stylish finish.
This structured fitted blouse will be a staple in your wardrobe for years with its intricate and flattering smock panel detailing. Wear this with some hooped earrings and you’re good to go for a video call.
Now this top is screaming seventies with its retro-inspired silhouette and smocked waist (are you seeing a trend here, ladies?) Finished with ivory shell buttons and a dropped colour, you can team this with dark denim for an effortlessly put-together look – but don’t worry, wear loungewear on your bottom half for now. Who’ll even see in a video call?!
Think you can’t pull off a crop top? Think again as this Spring/ Summer, crop tops are a big hit but only when worn over a plain white tee. Best of all, this crop top has a cheeky bow on the front which will let your friends and family on video call know that yes, your presence is a gift.
This straight-cut blouse is a versatile piece in anyone’s wardrobe. Tuck it in. Leave it out. Wear it off the shoulder. Wear it on the shoulder. So many looks from a small price point. However, my favourite thing about this piece is that it’s completely bloated friendly – perfect for the upcoming BBQ we’re all dreaming of.
If you like mint choc chip, then you’re in for another sweet treat as &Other Stories have released my favourite top on the internet. Personally, I’ve already purchased it and will be wearing it with an oversized shirt until the warmer months. For a real contrast, I’d recommend pairing this with a cheeky red lip for a colour combo match in heaven.
If you’re feeling tempted to add a bit of stylish drama to your wardrobe, then this is definitely the starter item. With its big balloon sleeved detailing and embroidered pattern, it’s made incredibly humble by its muted tone. Once we hit summer, pair it with denim shorts or a skirt and some strappy sandals.
Well, House of Sunny is certainly the It Girl brand of this Spring/ Summer with their flamboyant designs which pay homage to the 90s. This is one of their best sellers and would make the perfect in-house top for comfortable conference calls with your family.
If being in lockdown isn’t an excuse to invest in another Breton striped top, then I’m not sure what is. These are a classic in anyone’s wardrobe and will make you feel cosy as you catch up with your friends and family over a video call.
The good thing about a cardigan is that it’s a more appropriate ensemble than a dressing gown – making it ideal for in-house wear – however, it also makes the perfect layer over a spring/ summer outfit. This UNIQLO one is an absolute steal for the price, considering its high-quality design.
And finally – the basic t-shirt style of the spring/ summer! As every Instagram influencer has shown, this simple tee should remain simple – paired with jeans, a gold necklace and some ear jewellery.
How to start mindfulness journaling
HLN's wellness expert Hannah Bullimore talks us through how to begin journaling, including a downloadable workbook to help you get started.
READ MOREKeep Updated
Sign up to receive our free newsletter straight to your inbox