A blouse is a perfect way to ease into autumn.

“Really, a blouse?” I hear you say, incredulously. I know, blouses don’t instantly spring to mind as a “hot” item, do they? The very name conjures primness.

But in A/W23 blouses are having a real moment. And quite right too. Not only do they pair perfectly with tailoring, they allow us to look polished after removing our blazer — a plus at Yomtov if, as often happens, the temperature soars in early autumn.

MID-HIGH paisley-print blouse, £185, Gerard Darel V-1 MODEL

Paisley-print blouse, £185, from Gerard Darel (Photo: Gerard Darel)

And blouses are not just trans-seasonal wardrobe heroes. A pretty blouse, perhaps over a cami, can elevate jeans, cargoes or leggings to the exact level of glamour needed for a low-key event such as dinner with friends. And, unlike an embellished bottom-half, a blouse puts the “pretty” on show across a table.

Many designers, including Dolce & Gabbana, Erdem and Chloe, offer blouses and, yes, often with terrifying price-tags (£2,900 at Saint Laurent). But there are also covetable ones at many price-points at many brands such as Ganni, Boden, Monsoon and Zara.

PRICEY-DESIGNER Magda Butrym, at Net a P £1,270 silk chiffon with applique

Magda Butrym, at Net a Porter, £1,270 silk chiffon with applique (Photo: Net a Porter)

And they come in a variety of styles from refined aesthetic to Boho vibe, in regular length and longline, in many colours including pristine white and in paisley, floral and abstract prints.

You can also find blouses with balloon or other statement sleeves; adorned with frills or pussy-bows; embellished with smocking, and pintucking, feathers or embroidery.

The blouse has its practical pluses too: you won’t overheat in one; you can buy one smaller or larger than a skirt if your shape requires and as most have sleeves, they allow you to be on-point with covered arms.