Do you have any suggestions for what types of tops I could wear with A-line skirts?

I've tried classy looking t-shirts, but they tend to be too long. I think I need something about 3" below my waist so as to not emphasize my (widish) hips. But then, that invites the baring the midriff if I lift my arms too high. I want to avoid office collar type shirts which look too professional, and find something more feminine but which works with with the cute patterned skirts out there instead of clashing because the tops have too many tucks or frills. I'm not a tank top kind of woman; I prefer a little sleeve, something simple. And then there is the question of tuck or not tuck tops into a-line skirts? Your thoughts on what to wear with all those cute a-line skirts in style?!

Hannah

For everyday casual, the A-line skirt is perfect with a tee or tank or polo shirt. Hannah is exactly right about length; a top that is too long will draw attention to even the slimmest of hips, while a top that is too short will leave your mid section hanging. One option is to size down to the petite version of whatever tee you are already wearing; the petite will typically be a little shorter, which solves the extra long hem issue. Of course, this only works if you are not already wearing a petite size. For petite and plus size women, Eddie Bauer makes gently fitted tees that hit right at the hip (maybe three inches below the belly button); they will show your curves without leaving you feeling exposed. Eddie Bauer also makes classic polo shirts in a mid-length. For everyday casual, this is a terrific option.

Hannah says that she's not a fan of the tank top, and frankly basic tank tops can often be very VERY casual. As an alternative, she can think about a sleeveless sweater. Cotton and linen blends wear well and aren't too hot. If you're trying to balance a small top half with a larger bottom half, a sweater with an empire waist or some seaming under the bust can give weight to a small chest; a square neckline, on the other hand, can minimize a larger bust.

Hannah has reservations about woven shirts with collars, but a collared shirt can look fantastic with a simple A-line skirt. Look for bright colors or funky patterns; look also for more sheer fabrics or a three-quarter or cap sleeve. A really great woven shirt is a terrific wardrobe staple; you can wear it with a simple skirt for a lazy Saturday or with trousers for work or with jeans for a day of running errands. If a cotton shirt seems constrictive, look for something with a little stretch. (Shirt, $22.50 at Oldnavy.com. Available in sizes XS-XXL, in six colors.)

Hannah also asked specifically about finding the right top to go with a patterned skirt. Her instincts are good here: with a bold pattern, keep the top simple. By the same logic, feel free to pair a more detailed top with a simple, solid color A-line skirt.

Finally, the Big Question: to tuck or not to tuck? If you're going to tuck, make sure the hem of your shirt is long enough to stay tucked in; be sure as well that you are comfortable with the emphasis on your waist line. Women with hourglass figures have the most success with tucked shirts because it will call attention to your curves. Women who are carrying a little extra weight in the mid section would do better NOT to tuck; instead, choose a top with darts through the body and a shirt tail hem, which gives your waist some definition. Whether you tuck or not, be sure that your top fits properly through the waist; a too big shirt will add bulk, while a too-small shirt will constantly ride up.

Susan Wagner writes about fashion at Friday Style and about everything else at Friday Playdate. She has a closet full of A-line skirts, and she never tucks anything into them.