This in-between-y weather we've got going on right now has given me outfit-angst more than usual this month. The brisk, cold mornings and bright sunshine have meant I've been struggling to conjure up outfits that will go the whole day without some form of temperature-related meltdown. For my fellow girls wrestling dressing for this time of year, I think I've found the perfect solution that's also endorsed by style icons spanning decades. It may seem like a humble basic, but the three-quarter sleeve top is actually set to be your spring wardrobe secret weapon.
I'm always overheating in a springtime knit, and I can guarantee you I'll overthink layers. So, when I was recently sitting shivering at my desk in a t-shirt (deceived by both the extreme sunshine and my over-air-conditioned office), I turned my head to this basic alternative that has a nostalgic nod to ‘90s minimalism alongside the laidback allure of the French girl aesthetic we're constantly coveting.
The timing makes sense. ‘90s silhouettes have been filling our feeds once again, thanks to Love Story and the internet's dissection of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's wardrobe, so the three-quarter comeback was due. Often cut with a boat neck or a slightly dipped neckline, and flashing some forearm skin, the simple top offers instant elegance that a tee just can't deliver.
Giving the energy of an off-duty ballerina's uniform – um, my dream – it's as versatile as its easy breezy vibe. For the perfect weekend look, try a sportier aesthetic with the baseball raglan style, or, for a date night, try it in a V-neck. The viral Rina top from Cou Cou Intimates, worn by many a celeb, including Sabrina Carpenter and Lila Moss, is proof that it's a spring formula the It-girls are loving. Fun fact: the Rina design is inspired by a photo of Jane Birkin (the OG It-girl) sporting a scalloped-edge curved hemline and three-quarter bell sleeves. The pale pink version is waiting patiently in my cart, ready to be purchased.
Whilst I love this Cou Cou top, the higher price tag means I (sadly) can't stock up on all the colourways. In my search for some high street alternatives, I found M&S' cotton slim fit top that legit ticks all the boxes. The sleeves falling just below the elbow hit that perfect three-quarter length, and I'm a big fan of the flattering slash neckline. The fact its 100% cotton, too, for only £10 is a major win.
M&S has expertly paired theirs with the three-quarter top's trouser equivalent; the calf-bearing capri pant. Channelling Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina, the combo has all the nonchalant elegance we're dying to achieve this spring, just as long as the weather plays ball.
Shop some of our favourite, easy-to-style three-quarter sleeve tops here:
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.
