1 Top, 5 Ways: How to Get the Most Out of Your M.M.

March 29, 2019 | Filed in: Your Closet

The perfect white top is a wardrobe MVP: It can be paired with anything in your closet and will give you years of value. Our current favorite: the Joan, which has all the comforts of a tee (machine-washable, travel-friendly fabric), but with the elegance of a blouse. Says M.M. stylist Nyjerah: “I think of this top as a blank canvas. You can add layers, colors, and other textures, and it works for both formal and casual environments.” We challenged Nyjerah to style the Joan five ways, modeled here by our team member Allie.

Look 1: Joan top + Babette blazer + Elliott trouser + Ginger pump

“This is a modern take on the traditional business-formal suit. I wanted to show that you can wear different colors on top and bottom and still look professional. Here, the Joan serves as an easy, lightweight underpinning that peeks out from underneath the jacket.”

Look 2: Joan top + Willoughby skirt + Ginger pump

“The neutral alabaster color of the Joan complements bolder shades: I paired it with the chambray Willoughby skirt for an outfit that looks feels fresh and light. The subtle texture of the top balances the pleats of the skirt, so that you’re combining textures without it overwhelming the look.”

Look 3: Joan top + Harlem skirt + Double Rectangle belt + Ethelda necklace + Ginger pump

“This is a great day-to-night look. I styled the Joan over the Harlem skirt and added a belt to define Allie’s waist. Since the top has a relaxed fit, the belt creates a flattering, hourglass silhouette. The Ethelda necklace elevates the outfit and matches the hardware of the belt.”

Look 4: Joan top + Dougherty coat + Tinsley trouser + Ethelda necklace + Ginger pump

“For this outfit, I wanted to show how to mix the Joan, a more formal piece, with a casual layer, the Dougherty. The relaxed-but-tailored fit of the Joan anchors the voluminous silhouettes of the sweater and pants.”

Look 5: Joan top + Mercer parka + Foster pant + Grace loafer

“I think of this look as an elevated version of the classic T-shirt and jeans combo: It’s stretchy and comfortable but still completely professional. The loafers and ponytail lend the outfit a casual vibe—perfect for days when you’re on the go.”

Ready to find your own way to wear the perfect white top? Shop the Joan here.