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Womens/Clothing/Tops/Blouses & Shirts

Top 10 Shell Tops

The Best Shell Tops For Layering Under Your Favorite Fall Blazers And Jackets

Image credits: j.crew

As much as we love our t-shirts and button-downs, now and then there’s a need for something sleeker. Whether you’re looking for a simple blouse to layer under a blazer or you’re in the market for something subtle to tuck into a pair of statement pants, the shell top is there for you.

What is a shell top?

Shell tops are a simple style of blouse that can be worn on their own or underneath blazers, cardigans, and other lightweight layers. Shell tops are typically sleeveless but come in a variety of necklines, from crew to scoop to boat and more. Due to the signature straight silhouette of a shell top, you can easily tuck this style into a variety of bottoms—however, they’re also sleek enough to let hang loose. Today, shell tops are frequently made out of high-quality silk and cotton knits, but you can also find more affordable versions crafted out of polyester blends.

Why buy a shell top?

Certain occasions call for sophistication, and when these times arise, you don’t want to be rifling through your closet wondering why you have so many graphic tees. Instead, you can confidently turn to a shell blouse. They’re simple enough to be appropriate for work, but they also make a great backdrop for your favorite accessories. Not to mention, shell tops complement nearly every kind of bottom out there. 

How We Found The Best Shell Tops On The Internet

Here’s how our Top 10 lists work: Our data-powered ranking algorithm finds the top-rated styles in a given category and ranks them based on information from reviews, social media, best-seller lists, and more. Then, we follow that up with our own research—meaning, you’ll know about sizing quirks and whether there are any specific care instructions. So with that in mind, get ready to meet the 10 best shell tops on the internet.

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August 9, 2024

Written By:Sierra Rogers

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
Image credits: nordstrom
Rank & Style Approved

nordstrom

Vince Camuto Sleeveless Top

Overall Score

4.05

10

Vince Camuto Sleeveless Top

4

13 User Reviews

2.2

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Stretch Shell Top

THE DETAILS
Vince Camuto's Sleeveless Top is a sleek style made from a stretchy blend of polyester and spandex. It has a jewel neckline, a keyhole, and a back slit that makes it just a little flirty.

MORE TO LOVE
You can pick up this shell blouse in a few vibrant shades, including Summer Green, Bright Lemon, and Wildfire Pink. If you're looking for neutrals, good news—it's also available in black and navy.

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Brooks Brothers Supima Cotton Shell

Overall Score

4.1

09

Brooks Brothers Supima Cotton Shell

4.7

35 User Reviews

2.3

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Knit Shell Top

THE DETAILS
Supima cotton is known for its soft feel and durable nature. Brooks Brothers' Supima Cotton Shell puts the material to good use, with a frame-skimming silhouette that can carry a look on its own or pair nicely with a blazer.

HELPFUL REVIEW
"This is the first high-cut shell blouse I've purchased in the past ten years, and I'm very happy with it. It's versatile for all lengths of necklaces, and looks well under my cardigans. I like the fabric, but I don't put it in the dryer. I would order one size down if it will be worn under a sweater. I have since purchased this shell in three colors."

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Ravella Luxury Silkwear Giada Silk Shell Tank

Overall Score

4.15

08

Ravella Luxury Silkwear Giada Silk Shell Tank

4.9

69 User Reviews

2.5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Shell Tank With Side Slits

THE DETAILS
At $195, the Giada Silk Shell Tank is an investment piece. This timeless-looking style is made from a high-quality satin charmeuse silk that's sure to stand the test of time. Snag it sizes from XXS to XL.

GOOD TO KNOW
To keep this blouse in the best condition possible, hand-wash it or drop it off at the dry cleaners. Avoid spot-cleaning and if you do put it in the washing machine, use a delicate cycle.

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Anne Klein Pleated-Shoulder Sleeveless Shell Top

Overall Score

4.15

07

Anne Klein Pleated-Shoulder Sleeveless Shell Top

5

2 User Reviews

2.1

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best V-Neck Shell Tank

THE DETAILS
Meet your blazer's new best friend. Anne Klein's Pleated-Shoulder Sleeveless Shell Top has a v-neckline and pleated accents on the shoulders. It's available in three colors (Anne White, Red Pear, and a navy hue called Distant Mo).

MORE TO LOVE
The neckline of this blouse is begging for a necklace. Check out our list of the Top 10 Layering Necklaces for inspiration. 

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J.Crew Factory Sweater Shell

Overall Score

4.25

06

J.Crew Factory Sweater Shell

4.5

354 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Affordable Shell Tank

THE DETAILS
The Sweater Shell from J.Crew Factory was born to layer under cardigans, shackets, and more. Made from a supple cotton knit, this shell tank has a slim fit that hits at hip height.

HELPFUL REVIEW
"Classic shape and ideal weight for summer with its tight yet fine knit. This pairs well with classic cardigans; make sure to stock up on colors to mix and match."

More Colors

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Theory Shell Top In Silk Georgette

Overall Score

4.25

05

Theory Shell Top In Silk Georgette

4.7

160 User Reviews

2.6

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Designer Shell Top

THE DETAILS
One of Theory's best-sellers, the Shell Top is a versatile piece that plays nicely with culottes, maxi skirts, and dress shorts. It's made from a shiny silk material and has a straight silhouette with a back keyhole.

MORE TO LOVE
There are seven different colors of this top available to shop, from Ash Blue to a soft pink shade called Bloom.

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Quince Washable Stretch Silk Shell Tank

Overall Score

4.3

04

Quince Washable Stretch Silk Shell Tank

4.8

215 User Reviews

2.7

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Washable Silk Shell Top

THE DETAILS
Quince's Washable Stretch Silk Shell Tank is lined to prevent an ill-timed peep show. It has a high scoop neckline and the lightweight mulberry silk it's made from gives it a drapey nature.

HELPFUL REVIEW
"This classic shell can be worn on its own or under a jacket. The workmanship is perfect, the seams are straight, and the sizing is true."

More Colors

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Ann Taylor Crew Neck Sweater Shell

Overall Score

4.35

03

Ann Taylor Crew Neck Sweater Shell

4.4

24 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

0

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Sweater Shell Tank

THE DETAILS
As classic as it gets, the Sweater Shell from Ann Taylor features a crew neckline and ribbed hems. It pairs just as nicely with jeans as it does with a pair of tailored shorts. Plus, it's available in petite sizes in addition to the regular range of options.  

GOOD TO KNOW
Petite sizes have a length of 22.5", while regular sizes run around 23" long.

More Colors

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Banana Republic Factory Shell Tank

Overall Score

4.45

02

Banana Republic Factory Shell Tank

4.7

498 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

3

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best High-Low Shell Top

THE DETAILS
Banana Republic Factory's Shell Tank is a staple through and through. It has a crew neckline and a high-low shirttail design (ideal for fans of the French tuck). Fortunately, it's regularly reinvented in seasonal colors. Right now, you can snag it in nine different shades and two patterns.

MORE TO LOVE
Several reviewers mention that this shell top is made from a breathable material that does well in hot weather.

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J.Crew Sweater Shell In Tencel Lyocell Blend

Overall Score

4.5

01

J.Crew Sweater Shell In Tencel Lyocell Blend

4.6

67 User Reviews

2.5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Shell Tank Overall

THE DETAILS
You're not having deja vu—J.Crew's Sweater Shell has already made an appearance on this list. So, what's the difference between the two? This top-rated version comes from J.Crew proper (not J.Crew Factory) and it's made with TENCEL, an eco-friendly fiber loved for its soft, stretchy feel.

HELPFUL REVIEW
"Such a hidden gem! This shell was suggested by an associate, and I'm so happy I tried it on! I recently wore it in Ireland with white jeans and I absolutely loved it! Timeless, clean, and super versatile."

More Colors

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