A stylish women's top, blouse or tunic can really transform an outfit, allowing you to make a bold statement or create a subtle finishing touch, depending on your style or the occasion. women's tops are available in a huge range of styles, from dressy and professional to effortlessly casual, so follow this simple guide to achieve the perfect look for any occasion.

For every day wear, casual women's tops such as t-shirts and vest tops are a good choice. Brighter colours are very much on-trend for spring/summer, while in the winter months deeper and more understated colours tend to work better. A good understanding of the art of layering is a key part of creating a versatile wardrobe. When it's particularly warm you can usually get away with wearing a thin shirt or sleeveless top on its own, but to give you some protection from the elements you can also throw a cardigan or short women's jacket.

The trick to effective layering is to avoid clashing colours and overly bulky items. So look out for similar, but not identical, shades and keep it light. To avoid looking over-dressed, stick to a strict limit of two or three items at a time.

If you like to make a statement with your clothes, why not look for a fun graphic t-shirt? Print shirts are a great way of injecting a little bit of personality into your wardrobe, whether it's a bold and unusual design, a witty slogan or your favourite band. Long T-shirts work particularly well with leggings or skinny jeans for a classic bohemian look.

For more formal occasions an understated look is key. Tunic and blouse-style T-shirts are very classy and office appropriate. It's generally best to stick to lighter colours such as cream and sky blue. Complement with some equally subtle women's trousers or a long skirt. Accessorise with some attractive jewellery to give you that little bit of extra sparkle.

When shopping for women's tops it pays to take the time to find an outfit that looks great and that you feel comfortable in. If you find the high street too limited or intimidating, consider online catalogue shopping - a great way to find what you're looking for at your own pace. They often stock a wider range of sizes at more competitive prices, and at this time of the year many items are on summer sale.