Certain tops can draw attention to the arms in a way that isn’t always flattering, especially if you’re conscious about having flabby arms. Here are 12 types of tops that may emphasize the areas you’d rather downplay, along with tips on what to wear instead.
1. Cap Sleeve Tops
Cap sleeves are designed to crop just over the shoulder, accentuating bigger arms and making smaller arms appear wider. To avoid drawing attention to your arms, opt for tops with longer sleeves that extend to the elbow or three-quarter length to create a more flattering line.
2. Spaghetti Strap Tops
Spaghetti straps expose most of the arm, drawing attention to areas you may prefer to minimize. Not only this, but they can dig into the shoulders and create extra bulge. If you have flabby or droopy arms, consider tops with wider straps or sleeveless tops with a more substantial cut around the shoulders for better coverage.
3. Off-the-Shoulder Tops
While off-the-shoulder tops can be stylish, if you have bigger upper arms, they often highlight this area by exposing the shoulders and drawing the eye to your upper body. This doesn’t mean you can’t show off a bit of skin, a boat neck or scoop neck can offer a similar neckline without spotlighting the arms.
4. Tight-Fitting Sleeves
Tops with tight-fitting sleeves can squeeze the upper arms, creating a bulging effect that will make you look disproportionate and uncomfortable. Loose or flutter sleeves provide a more relaxed fit, offering comfort while subtly minimizing the appearance of flabby arms.
5. Halter Tops
Halter tops are fun in the summer and a great way to show off some skin. However, be mindful that these tops emphasize the shoulders and upper arms, often highlighting any excess softness. Instead, opt for styles like a V-neck or scoop neck that draw attention downward, creating a more elongating effect and drawing attention away from your arms.
6. Dolman Sleeve Tops
Dolman sleeves are loose at the top but taper at the wrist, which can create a wing-like effect that accentuates the upper arms. Even if you don’t have flabby arms, this top will make it look like you do. Tops with straight-cut sleeves or if you want to experiment with silhouettes, opt for a lantern sleeve instead.
7. Cold Shoulder Tops
Cold shoulder tops are not only dated, but they expose part of the shoulder and upper arm, making the arms appear larger. Instead, choose tops with interesting details around the neckline or bust to draw attention away from the arms and towards more flattering areas.
8. Tank Tops with Thin Straps
Like spaghetti straps, thin-strapped tank tops expose the arms and highlight imperfections. It can make you look out of proportion and even create bulging if the straps are too tight. Consider wearing tanks with thicker straps or sleeveless blouses with more coverage around the arm area.
9. Short Sleeve Button-Downs
Short-sleeved button-down shirts can have a boxy fit that doesn’t flatter the arms, especially if those sleeves are tight. A better option is a sleeved blouse with a roll tab or a long-sleeve shirt that you can cuff, giving a more tailored appearance that doesn’t draw unnecessary attention to your arms.
10. Puff Sleeve Tops
Puff sleeves add volume to the shoulder and upper arm area, which can make arms appear larger than they are. This doesn’t mean you can’t wear puff sleeve tops; instead, try to find lantern sleeves that cuff at the wrist and have a structured shoulder for a better look. Alternatively, tops with fitted sleeves or subtle ruffles are a good alternative that still offers a feminine touch without overwhelming the arms.
11. Muscle Tees
Muscle tees are sleeveless with wide armholes, often highlighting flabbiness in the upper arms. Not only this, but muscle tees are generally unflattering and not chic. Skip these tops and opt for a fitted tee with a flutter sleeve to provide a more balanced and flattering look.
12. Crop Tops with Cap Sleeves
Crop tops that have cap sleeves not only expose the midriff but also accentuate the upper arms. If you experience flabbiness or are generally insecure about your upper body, these shirts will only exacerbate this. Instead, opt for a full-length top with Dolman sleeves or a boxy tee to achieve a modern, stylish look that doesn’t focus on the arms.