The 11 Best Camisoles for Fall Layering
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Updated October 17, 2023: This article on the best camisoles was updated with fresh product picks for fall and winter 2023, plus new information on the history of camisoles and what to look for in a camisole.
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Camisoles don’t have to go in your “see you next summer” bin when you’re swapping out your clothes for the cold weather seasons ahead. These strappy tanks are on par with a few wardrobe staples, like straight-leg jeans and a crisp white button down, in their ability to serve you well all year.
The women’s camisole is every seasoned fashion editor’s secret weapon for effortless layering when the weather changes — it allows us to wear multiple pieces at once and stay warm amid gradually declining temperatures. When done properly, the camisole can take you from day to night, and depending on the weather, make bulky outerwear optional.
Yes, heavy fabrics and oversized fits are a wise choice for the cold-weather seasons, but a versatile camisole is a hard-working staple that adds softness to layered silhouettes. Need something to put under your crewneck sweater in case you get warm on the subway? Throw on a white cotton camisole. Going on a date and wondering how to dress up? A silk camisole with a leather jacket and trousers will do the trick. Want something to tuck into your slip skirt seamlessly? Look no further than a basic cami bodysuit.
With nostalgia trending across the board in fashion, the conversation around camisoles is relevant and vast. And there’s a camisole style for all budgets and fashion tastes. Ready to shop? Keep scrolling to shop top-rated, editor-approved camisoles and learn more about the iconic style.
What Is a Camisole?
Some may attribute camisoles to sleepwear or lingerie-inspired pajamas, but in truth, there are many iterations of camis, all with many different uses. “Camisoles are more delicate and flowy tank tops,” explains designer Anine Bing. These garments sometimes have decorative trimming and feature both spaghetti straps as well as wider straps.
When figuring out what style of camisole is best for you, consider how you want to use it. Will it be your go-to warm-weather evening top, replacing summer dresses? Or is it more intended to be worn under a button-down or cardigan as a piece of underwear? Each scenario requires a different type of cami.
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Related:
Best Slip Dresses
Top Camisoles for Women for 2023
Hanes Stretch Camisole
Sizes: S to XXL
Colors: Black, red, purple, teal, gray, navy, pink, white
Material: 95% Cotton, 5% Spandex
200+ purchases in the past month
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
If you’re looking for the perfect bra-shelf cami, Hanes’s comfortable, cozy cami fits the bill. The built-in bra helps to offer added support to those who may not want to wear an underwire bra, but still want a little bit more coverage than just a tank alone. The wide range of colors makes this option terrific for layering under a number of outfits. Meanwhile, the cotton and spandex fabric is stretchy and fitted without being too clingy or tight.
Testing review: “These under-camis are absorbent, soft, and stretchable enough to be very wearable. Love that it is cotton, not polyester; they are also holding up well through washings.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12.96
Pact Organic Cotton Camisole
Sizes: XS to XXL
Colors: Apricot, Mountain View, black, white, and five others
Materials: Organic Cotton
Amazon’s Choice
500+ purchases in the past month
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
On the hunt for a tank that feels like a second skin? This camisole from Amazon clothing brand Pact is focused on comfort. The organic cotton fabrication is breathable and stretchy. If you want a top that can be tucked unnoticed beneath a T-shirt, the scoop neck and thin straps will help to keep this option hidden. Plus, the neutral color range works with a variety of skin tones while the built-in bra keeps you supported and comfortable.
Price upon publish date of this article: $17.99
Beyond Yoga Space Dye Truly Camisole
Sizes: XS to XL
Colors: Darkest Night, Cloud White, Silver Mist
Materials: 87% Polyester, 13% Spandex
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Camisoles can also be worn for working out, especially when they’re constructed in Beyond Yoga’s signature stretchy and soft material. The white tank top silhouette has a light compression that will help you to feel supported as you move, spaghetti straps that rest comfortably on the shoulders, and a mid-length that hits the mid-waistband. Pair it with a high-impact sports bra and fitted leggings, or bike shorts if it’s warm out.
Price upon publish date of this article: $56
Skims Straight Neck Cami
Sizes: XS to 4X
Colors: Army, Washed Onyx, Stone, Cocoa
Materials: 92% Cotton, 8% Spandex
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
A cami doesn’t have to stand alone. It can also make for a great base layer — that’s where this option from Skims will come in handy. This fitted top is made of cotton and spandex, so it’s both breathable and stretchy. The square neckline and tight feel keep a low profile under a dress or women’s T-shirt. Adjustable straps also add an extra touch of versatility to your styling needs.
Price upon publish date of this article: $38
Nili Lotan Isabella Camisole
Sizes: XS to L
Colors: Ivory, black
Materials: 100% silk
Revolve Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Silk charmeuse is the fabric of choice for this sleek, ’90s-inspired option from Nili Lotan. Since the New York-based brand is known for its traditionally minimalist designs, it makes sense that this option has plenty of versatility, so no matter how you describe your personal style, it will work. For an extra perk, this design is also machine washable. And while the sheen works elegantly for dressier occasions, it’s also great to pair with casual baggy jeans. Throw a blazer over the top for a chic look.
Price upon publish date of this article: $295
J.Crew Carrie V-Neck Camisole
Sizes: XS to 3X
Colors: Black, Ivory, Barcelona Blue, Earth Brown
Materials: 100% silk
J.Crew Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is to keep it simple. This V-neck option from J.Crew is basic at its best. The top has a luxe sheen design that lends a sense of elegance and class to any outfit, especially one for a night out or even to the office under a blazer. Plus, the relaxed fit is comfortable but still looks great for dressier occasions.??
Testing review: “I really liked this piece. I bought the polka dot version and was fully expecting to send it back. I have a small waist and large hips, and silk camis are usually too boxy or too tight in the hips to be flattering. This one actually has shape to it, though! It’s also nice fabric that isn’t see though.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $99.99
Anine Bing Mandy Camisole
Sizes: XS to L
Colors: Black, Artichoke
Materials: 100% silk
Net-a-Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
“I love silk camisoles with really thin straps,” explains Bing. Her namesake brand’s Mandy style is made from 100 percent silk. The bias cut means that while the top is loose, it hangs elegantly on the body. The simple construction with the asymmetrical one-shoulder design will work easily when tucked into a casual pair of straight-leg jeans or tailored trousers. To finish the look, layer on chunky earrings and add a statement designer handbag.
Price upon publish date of this article: $188
Reformation Melanie Top
Sizes: 0 to 12
Color: White, black
Materials: 78% Polyester, 20% Rayon, and 2% Spandex
If you’re looking for a camisole with a bit more structure to it than your standard undershirts, this is the option for you. Reformation’s Melanie top has the look of a fancier going-out top, while still providing the comfort afforded by a cami. The peak-through bra-like design makes this fab for a night-out look. And, the smocking in the back helps to accentuate the waist without pinching your body tightly. To style the top, wear it with trousers or a midi skirt.
Price upon publish date of this article: $148
Cuyana Gathered Front Camisole
Sizes: XS to XL
Color: Black
Materials: 45% Organic Pima Cotton, 45% Modal, 10% Elastane
Cuyana Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Cuyana is a women-built, heritage-led company that has a knack for creating eminently wearable closet staples, and this camisole is a sleek example. Made from soft organic pima cotton, modal, and elastane, it’s the sort of piece you’ll wear on repeat. It features a gathered front, thin double straps, and a cropped silhouette, all of which are trendy and minimal. The short hems means it’s the perfect piece to pair with high-waisted jeans. Plus, the rust hue is a chic and stylish departure from all the black and white camisoles already a part of your rotation.
Price upon publish date of this article: $78
The Row Biggins Camisole
Sizes: XS to XL
Color: Black
Materials: 4% elastane, 96% polyester
MyTheresa Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
The Row is known for creating luxurious, wear-forever basics. The Biggins camisole is made from a stretch-satin material that is comfortable and sleek. The slight-scoop neckline and extra-thin straps have a ‘90s feel to them. And, the silhouette is a bit looser, meaning that it won’t get sweaty or uncomfortably clingy when you wear it.
Price upon publish date of this article: $590
Intimissimi Lace and Silk Camisole
Sizes: XS to XL
Colors: Blue, natural, blue, red, ivory, violet, and 7 more colors
Materials: 100% silk
Camisoles can also work as an option for sleepwear or in place of a bra as a simple undergarment. This top from Intimissimi has matching shorts and is a pretty layer for an everyday look. It’s made of machine-washable silk, so you don’t have to worry about taking it to the dry cleaners. Plus, it’s embellished with lace detail for a sultry and feminine finish. Adjustable straps add a final element of comfort.
Testing review: “These are the most silky sensual, comfortable, and luxurious silk and lace top. I bought 2 bright blue on line, and I have one other that I bought before. I wear and lounge around with them on weekends from Friday to Sunday. I plan on buying a few more, so I can wear them every day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $55.30
A Brief History of Camisoles
While women’s camisoles are shedding their undershirt status and seeing the light of day recently, the top has a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome, where it was worn as an undergarment by women. However, the modern camisole as we know it today became popular in the 1920s when flappers wore it as an outer garment.
Later, in the early 2000s, when fashion was all about layering, the camisole top made a big name for itself. Camisoles were wardrobe workhorses — layered over and under almost anything but also worn alone. They became part of a pretty standard going-out look, paired with jeans or trousers, and seen on A-listers like Paris Hilton, Jessica Biel, Britney Spears, Sara Foster, and many others. You’d see camisoles done with flashy details like sequins, and others completed more simply, with a silk or cotton fabrication.
Today, these spaghetti-strap tank tops are back in the fashion zeitgeist and just as popular as ever. Similar to the past, there’s a slew of colors, patterns, and designs to choose from, making it a versatile piece that’s easy to add to one’s wardrobe, regardless of your style.
What to Look For in a Camisole
Fit: When seeking out a camisole, you’ll want to consider what fit makes the most sense for your needs. For example, a cropped camisole is a fun option for going out but may not be suitable for work. Also, a more fitted silhouette is great for layering underneath a long-sleeve sweater, while a looser fabrication is best suited to wear under an oversized jacket. Also, when it comes to fit, avoid buying a camisole if the straps fall off your shoulders. Some camisoles include adjustable straps; however, not all do, so make sure you read the strap measurements or look to see if the straps can be customized to your liking or not.
Material: When shopping for a camisole top, material matters. Always look for a camisole made from high-quality cotton, silk, or a blended fabric because you want it to hold its shape and last in your wardrobe season after season.
Style and design: When picking out the camisole style for you, think about what you need it for or where you want to wear it. For example, silk camisoles with lace trims add sophistication and femininity to whatever you pair them with. Shoppers also have the option to choose between an array of necklines because camisoles come with V-necks, square necks, and scoop necks. When shopping for this top, it’s important to remember that some camisoles will have to be worn with sticky bras, bandeau bras, or strapless bras rather than sports bras or T-shirt bras.
Opacity: Before purchasing a camisole, you’ll want to test the piece’s opacity. Some styles are naturally sheerer than others. If you’re planning to wear the top to the office, you may want to opt for a double-lined or thicker fabric. Thinner materials are welcome for casual looks, especially with a cute bralette worn underneath.
The Different Types of Camisoles
Lace camisoles: Lace detailing is quite common in many camisoles, often featured on both silk and cotton iterations. But, for camisoles intended to serve more as lingerie, you can also find styles made entirely of lace. The sheer, breathable fabric can serve as a great base layer, but also may be a cool option to layer over another bright tank or a dress to align with the sheer trend.
Silk camisoles: Soft silk is the ideal choice if you want to wear a camisole for fancier occasions. The sleek feel and slight sheen to the fabric add luxurious touches that are perfect for pairing with glittery accessories, platform sandals, or cute ankle boots. If you’re a fan of practical pieces, keep an eye out for washable silk, which is easier to care for than options that need to be dry cleaned.
Cotton camisoles: Often, cotton camis make for the ideal bottom layer. They’re breathable, fitted, and usually also come with a built-in bra, but if not, wear it with a T-shirt bra for maximum comfort. Many cotton camisoles come in neutrals and skin-tones to prevent them from taking away from the rest of your outfit.
Empire camisoles: The empire camisole style has become increasingly popular, especially after the release of ‘Bridgerton’ and ‘Queen Charlotte,’ both of which made a compelling argument for why Regency-era styles should return. These tops feature a high-cut waist seam that sits directly under the breasts, creating a tight-fitting bodice and a voluminous bottom. These tops are universally flattering — they accentuate tall frames and give the illusion of length to petite statures while also being one of the most comfortable, non-restrictive camisole designs out there.
How to Wear a Camisole
Depending on the type of camisole that you choose, they can be great for layering — especially as a bottom layer or in place of a bra. For layering options, choose more fitted silhouettes and keep an eye out for materials that are breathable and will be comfortable on the skin. Camisoles can also be worn on their own as a stylish tank — a favorite styling option of Bella Hadid — for either daytime or for a night out. If you’re planning to wear one as a top, opt for delicate design details, like ruching or lace, that will make the top feel especially distinct. “Camis are a very versatile top, and are really easy to dress up or down,” says Bing. “I think they’re super cute with shorts for the day, or with women’s jeans or comfortable pants like trousers for the night. You can throw a blazer or jacket on for either time of day if it gets a bit breezy or chilly.” For work, look to styling ideas from The Row or Jil Sander, which often will layer a cami under an oversized button-down or baggy top.
How We Selected the Best Camisoles for Women
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to curate this guide for the best camisoles for women for 2023, we conducted expert interviews for industry knowledge on material sourcing and camisole construction, seasonal styling recommendations, and product selections. This shopping guide also reflects wide market research on brand-new camisole releases, including analysis of customer reviews, emerging trending styles, and the most suitable options for various occasions and body types. We also applied research on fall 2023 and spring 2024 runway trends as well as our own product testing to determine this list of the best camisoles for women. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Anine Bing is a Los Angeles-based designer known for her downtown cool styles. Inspired by Scandinavian simplicity and American energy, Bing has built a global fashion house focused on everyday wardrobe essentials and investment pieces for modern women seeking a timeless yet rebellious approach to style. Anine Bing designs are thoughtfully sourced from the highest quality fabrications and materials, including leather, silk, linen, cashmere and 14k gold.
Meet the Authors
Christine Flammia is a writer and editor based in NYC, focusing on fashion and lifestyle. She is currently working on her PhD at Columbia University while staying at the forefront of all consumer trends with a keen eye for the latest, greatest, and classics of what people wear, buy and love. Flammia wrote the original version of the best camisoles for women story in 2022.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News, where she both writes and edits stories on the latest clothing, accessory, and shoe must-haves. As a city dweller, she’s garnered a love for camisoles because they can be easily worn alone in the spring and summer and layered under sweaters and jackets in the fall and winter. Chwatt wrote the update to this best camisole story in October 2023, with new styles to wear for fall and winter of 2023 and more in-depth information about the history of the camisole and what to look for in one.
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