Bored of shapeless tees? Batwing tops are the breezy, elevated alternative to see you through the summer season
Just as versatile as your regular t-shirts, with added shape
This season’s heatwaves have made breathable clothing the priority, but that can lead to a lot of outfit repetition - and wardrobe fatigue. If you’re now wondering what to wear in the heat that isn’t just loose basics, and instead find yourself lusting after items that remain comfortable with some extra polish, the batwing top trend needs to be on your radar.
Characterised by wider arm holes that taper into a nipped waist silhouette, it’s a look plenty of us probably already have in our wardrobes in some form. The batwing silhouette has been ticking over for years, but the return to boho dressing and flowy shapes this summer has brought them back into the limelight. Think Zimmerman or Chloé blouses, but with a little bit more structure and everyday appeal for your summer capsule wardrobe.
Offering a loose fit around the arms and chest, batwing tops are ideal for warm weather when you don’t want form-fitting pieces making you uncomfortable. But the beauty of the batwing is its cinched waist that offers some shape, without sacrificing on breathability.
If you prefer a long sleeve cut, this John Lewis option is lightweight and fitted in all the right places to still nip in your middle.
In a gorgeous blush pink, tapping into the fashion colour trends of 2026, this top offers plenty of breathability and coverage.
Perfect for cooler summer evenings, this lightweight knit has just enough shape to work with looser or more fitted bottoms. Make it part of a white jeans outfit in late summer.
In an ideal transitional hue, this affordable New Look option cinches in at the waist without clinging.
If you’re on the hunt for an elevated evening batwing top, this metallic hue adds a party feel to plain bottoms.
With an ideal balance of loose batwing sleeves and a fitted waist, this M&S top can be paired with denim or tailored shorts for the office.
One of the key spring/summer fashion trends for 2026, the batwing shape is slowly taking over the high street - from t-shirts to midi dresses. If you favour baggier bottoms, such as wide leg linen trousers or Bermuda shorts, this style of top will balance your frame perfectly as the fitted middle highlights your waist, while the drapey sleeves echo wider trousers. Look for soft jersey fabrics and linen or cotton blends to ensure you stay cool, even if you opt for a long-sleeved iteration.
Designers including Givenchy, Oscar de la Renta, Alaïa, and Victoria Beckham are showcasing the silhouette this season, proving just how elevated the batwing shape can be. The comfort factor is just an added bonus. Styled with tailored trousers and heels for dinner or a complementary midi skirt and high-vamp flats for an afternoon picnic, a batwing top will quickly become one of your most versatile summer investments.
