Flattering Tops for an Apple Shape: 6 Easy Looks
For an apple shape, choose tops that float away from the midsection: swing or A-line cuts, V-necklines and tunic lengths that end below the tummy.
The tops that work hardest for an apple shape share three traits: they float from the bust instead of following the waist, they open the neckline with a V, and they are long enough to fall past the tummy. Below are six looks built on those rules, using some of the most-loved plus size tops at Catherines.
What makes a top flattering on an apple shape?
A flattering top for an apple shape skims the midsection rather than clinging to it. Fabric should drape and move, the cut should widen gently from the bust, and the hem should land below the fullest part of the tummy.
- Shape: swing or A-line silhouettes that start their ease at the bust, so there is room at the middle without extra bulk at the shoulders.
- Neckline: a V-neck or open neckline draws the eye up and lengthens the torso.
- Length: tunic lengths of roughly 30 to 34 inches typically cover the tummy and sit at or below the hip.
- Fabric: soft knits and drapey wovens with a little stretch, described as skimming without clinging.
Look 1: The swing tunic with leggings
This is the everyday answer: a soft swing tunic over leggings or slim pants. The Stretch Knit Swing Tunic has a swing silhouette that moves easily, a longer length of about 30 inches, and three-quarter sleeves for year-round wear.
Its rayon-spandex knit gives gentle stretch without losing structure, and the product notes say the length sits securely without riding up. Finish with flats and a long pendant to keep the line vertical.
Look 2: The relaxed blouse, worn open
For a polished look, choose a blouse with a relaxed cut and wear it open over a tank or tee. The Timeless Blouse is our best-seller in the blouse collection, and its relaxed silhouette skims your curves without clinging.
The crepe de chine floats away from the body, side slits add ease, and bust darts give shaping where you want it. Buttoned, it is classic for work; open over a tank, it creates a long, unbroken line down the center.
Look 3: The V-neck tunic for maximum coverage
When coverage comes first, reach for a longer, more generous tunic. The Easy Fit Short Sleeve V-Neck Tunic has a 34-inch regular length, a V-neckline and side slits at the hem, in soft, breathable 100% cotton.
Length is what shoppers notice most; as one reviewer put it, "Longer to cover my belly and so comfortable, I went back and bought 2 more!" Note that it runs large, so size down if you are between sizes. Be sure to view our Size Chart to compare your bust and waist measurements to our sizing before ordering. Pair it with a pull-on knit pant or legging for an easy casual outfit.
Look 4: The flutter-sleeve top with capris or denim
For warm days, a short-sleeve top with an A-line shape keeps things breezy. Our flutter-sleeve swing top has an easy A-line silhouette, a V-neckline and short flutter sleeves, in a soft, drapey fabric that skims the body without clinging.
At 31 inches long it covers the tummy while still looking light. Try it with a sateen stretch capri or Right Fit® denim, plus sandals and a crossbody bag.
Look 5: The crochet swing tunic, layered
A swing tunic with a detail at the neckline pulls focus up and layers easily. The crochet swing tunic has a crochet applique along its V-neck, a gentle swing and sway, and a longer 32.5-inch regular length for coverage.
Its cotton-modal knit is soft and stretchy. Wear it alone with a skirt or pants, or layer an open kimono over it; the open front adds another vertical line.
Look 6: The going-out swing tunic
For evenings, pick a swing tunic with a statement neckline and pair it with dressy black pants. The Seasonless Swing Tunic is designed to swing away from the body, with an open oval at the scoop neckline accented with an ornament.
It is a lightweight stretch knit with three-quarter sleeves and a 32-inch regular length. Add earrings rather than a necklace so the neckline stays the focal point.
How long should a top be to cover your tummy?
Most apple shapes are happiest with a front length of about 30 to 34 inches, which typically ends at or below the hip. Shorter frames should look for petite lengths so the hem does not fall too low. Here is how the styles above compare.
Want more options in this length range? Browse all of Catherines tunics for longer cuts, prints and a wide selection of colors in knits and wovens from size 14W-40W.
| Style | Shape | Neckline | Regular Length | Petite Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy Fit Short Sleeve V-Neck Tunic | Generous, easy | V-neck | 34" | 32" |
| Crochet Swing Tunic | Gentle swing | V-neck | 32.5" | 31" |
| Seasonless Swing Tunic | Swing | Scoop with open oval | 32" | 30" |
| The Timeless Blouse | Relaxed | Shirt collar, notch | 31" | 29" (petite short 28") |
| Flutter Sleeve Swing Top | A-line | V-neck | 31" | Not listed |
| Stretch Knit Swing Tunic | Swing | Not listed | About 30" | Not listed |
Which tops tend to cling at the middle?
Cling at the midsection usually comes from three things: a cut that narrows at the waist, a thin fabric with no drape, or a hem that stops right at the tummy. Spotting these on a product page saves a return.
- Fitted or darted waists pull fabric close at the fullest point.
- Thin, clingy knits follow every curve; look for words like drape, float or skims.
- Cropped or hip-skimming hems create a horizontal line exactly where you don't want one.
- High crew necklines on a full bust can make the top fall straight down from the bust and widen the middle.
Frequently asked questions
Should I size up so a top doesn't cling at the middle?
Usually not. A top in your true size with a swing or A-line cut gives room at the middle while the shoulders and bust still fit. Sizing up often leaves the shoulders sliding and adds fabric where you don't want it.
Do the same ideas work for dresses?
Yes. Look for dresses that skim from the bust rather than nip in at the natural waist: A-line, swing and shift shapes, a V-neckline, and fabric with drape. The goal is the same easy line through the middle.
Can I tuck a top with an apple shape?
A light front tuck can work with a fluid blouse and a high-rise bottom, because it shows the shape of the pant without hugging the middle. Swing tunics are cut to be worn out, so leave those untucked.
Are these styles available in petite lengths?
Several are. The Timeless Blouse comes in petite and petite short lengths, and the Easy Fit, Seasonless and Crochet swing tunics come in petite lengths. A shorter length keeps the hem where it should land on a shorter frame.