THIS SEASON’S TREND FOR ATTENTION-GRABBING TOPS COULD BE CALLED a direct result of the situation the world currently finds itself in. Over the last few years, people have had to put extra thought into what they are wearing topside. Taking note, designers made tops a focal point of their collections. Whether voluminous, tiny or with cut- outs, many designers gave tops unique statement qualities. Two styles that could not be encored, simply by the sheer number of renditions designers generated, are corsets and oversized shirts.

Corseting might seem like it should be relegated to the past, but designers put a modern spin on this historic piece of clothing. The corset’s recent revival can be directly attributed to last year’s hit period show Bridgerton, resulting in a resurgence of regency fashion styles. The corset, which was once seen as a symbol of restriction, conveys empowerment in today’s iterations. Do not imagine relegating this top to evening wear; this season, we were reminded of its versatility and how it can be reworked into the perfect layering piece. One way designers diverged from the usually ornate corset was by sticking to a monochrome palette. Dion Lee’s all-white look consisted of a men’s style shirt worn untucked over a slim skirt and pulled together with a white-ribbed corset that seemed more like armor.

Striking statements were made with voluminous styles this season, from ballooning silhouettes to puffy sleeves and oversized shirts. Shirts are always a wardrobe staple, giving an outfit a tailored edge, even when paired with jeans or sweats. Young designer Peter Do’s long, flowing, oversized button-down shirts were fastened at the middle by one single button and worn with relaxed pants coming in soft neutral tones. This is how I dream I will look on my summer vacation.

Making a fashion statement is nothing new. It’s all about grabbing people’s attention with that one unique piece. These two very different styles pack a punch and are sure to turn a few heads in your direction (or your portion of the shared screen).

Kim Smith has been a professional wardrobe stylist in Honolulu since 2004. Born a true Londoner, Smith had a successful career in public relations in the fashion industry in London for more than eight years before moving to Hawai‘i in 2002. Smith’s work spans a vast array of magazines, retailers and television as well as working with individual clients on their specific style needs. See her work at kimsmithstyle.com.