Nostalgia for the 2000s continues to dominate our fashion feeds. Still, where other early-aughts silhouettes can spark mild panic – some understandably so (ahem, low-waist jeans) and others worth dipping your toe back in (capri pants) – I feel the return of off-the-shoulder tops is one everyone can get on board with.
Let us drill down into the shape of this alluring basic a little. You might be thinking of the sharp horizontal neckline that cuts straight across the chest and forearms just above the bust, sometimes referred to as the Bardot (named after the French starlet with the good hair, who popularised the style). But, for 2026's revival, it's the single shoulder-baring tops that have caught our eye. Still embodying that effortlessness of a well-dressed Parisian, this slightly slouchy shape has a sexy nonchalance that feels a little more bohemian and fresher for the new season.
I'm a true champion of this style. I have a beloved black three-quarter-sleeve top where the neckline cuts diagonally across my collarbone, revealing one shoulder, with the slinky fabric gathering at the waist. When I ask myself those slightly unhinged hypothetical scenarios, ‘what would I save in a house fire’, that black top features way higher on the list than it should. I bought it at a secondhand market (originally from Italian brand Pinko) and in the years since, it's been my failsafe top for every occasion. It's joined me on every holiday, weekend away, you name it.
The reason it's such a hard-working item – besides the fact that the ruched fit is so flattering – is that its simplicity means it's versatile and easy to wear without feeling boring. The asymmetric cut offers a point of interest. It'll work with flared summer skirts from mini to maxi, as well as bermuda shorts, or any style of jeans. It holds all the elements of a great summer basic, especially on holiday, revealing a sexy sun-kissed shoulder. I've always regarded it as my cool-girl going-out top.
Thankfully, the high street has jumped back on board with this long-lost ‘00s look. Canadian brand Kotn, which specialises in modern basics, have recently popped up on our radar since opening a shop in London, and you'll find a great selection of off-the-shoulder tops. Reformation's lightweight knit Belle top has also made our edit, with four gorge colourways; however, it's M&S' gorge asymmetric mesh drape top that wins top slot.
The ruching is just right, and for under £20 it's an absolute steal. It's available in both ivory and cornflower blue shades, but the printed brown and blue stripe style might be our favourite, looking much more expensive than its £18 price tag.
If you're looking to flash some shoulder this summer, shop our edit of the best tops on the high street and thank me later.
Stradivarius Short sleeve boat neck t-shirt
Free People Ellie off-the-shoulder top
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
