Polished and “Put Together”

When you’re first starting out, choosing the right clothing for concealed carry can be difficult. However, it doesn’t have to be! I find it helpful to have a few staple pieces that are easy to throw on, ones I know will conceal well every time. For me, blouses have become that item!

You can dress this kind of top up or down, making it appropriate for a variety of occasions. It’s also nice that blouses come in many styles, so ideally you should be able to find one that fits your personality!

As for me, I’m drawn to flowy and draping blouses that add a pretty, feminine touch while also providing great concealment of a self-defense tool. I’ve had a lot of success finding these at Ann Taylor LOFT.

In fact, just last week I was in one of their stores and found several concealed carry-friendly blouses. I snapped some pictures of my favorites to share! Check out the links below to see if any fit your style!

Mixed Media

This Cutout Mixed Media Top (Small) is made from polyester on the front and sleeves, and the back is made from a soft knit. (I see Ann Taylor Loft mixing those materials a lot and it makes for a very comfortable shirt.) I normally wear an extra small, but in the picture above, I’m wearing a small, because I liked how loose and flowy it was when I sized up. The peplum ruffle at the bottom offers great concealment with all the extra folds.

Fall Florals

LOFT also has a few “fall florals” out right now. I was glad to see this Fleur Utility Blouse (XS) in pink, as it’s my favorite color! This is one of those tops you can get use out of from spring to fall, depending on how you style it. For example, I just add a layer on top for the cooler months -- perhaps a sweater or a long vest with jeans and boots. To dress it up, you could wear it tucked into a high-waisted skirt.

Mock Neck

I almost glanced over this Mock Neck Button Back Top (Petite Small), but I’m so glad I decided to try it on! Three pleasing features stood out to me. First, its unique neckline is different from a lot of blouses out there right now and gives off a classic vibe. Second, the longer length in the back makes this top work well with leggings. Third, the knit cuffs are so comfortable! Some blouses have polyester cuffs that fit snugly around your wrist, making it difficult to pull your sleeve over your hand. However, with this blouse, if you get cold easily, you’ll appreciate the ability to tuck your hands inside the stretchy, soft material.

Floral Lace

This Floral Lace Button Back Blouse (XS) comes in navy and white (although it looks more cream colored) AND is on sale right now! Patterned pieces are particularly helpful for concealment -- so when I saw this top, I got excited! This past summer, a staple in my wardrobe was a white lace t-shirt that I was able to mix and match with other items in my closet. Generally, I don’t prefer to wear white in winter, but I can definitely do cream like this one! It also could be perfect under a cardigan this fall/winter! (Keep scrolling to see an example).

Lacey Cutout

Looking at this Lacey Cutout Back Blouse (XS) makes me think, “Holiday Party!” The cutout in the back gives it a little sass, but it’s also polished enough for the office. Although it’s difficult to tell from the picture, the back is also long enough to be worn with leggings. There are so many ways you could go with this top -- pair with a pleated midi-skirt and stilettos for a romantic look… or combine it with leather leggings and ankle boots, if you’d like something a bit edgier.

Shoulder Ruffle

I absolutely love this Lace Shoulder Ruffle Blouse (XS). I’m so disappointed I don’t wear golden-yellow well, but I had to point it out because it’s so pretty! (I’m crossing my fingers that it will come in another color soon.) The dainty ruffle and button cuff make this top so chic! If the color suits you, I’d recommend pairing it with some sleek black pants and leopard pumps.

Peplum Blouse

When I think of a classic concealed carry-friendly top, the blouse shown above is what I picture! This Mixed Media Peplum Top (Medium) is the same as the first blouse described above, but in a solid color. They didn’t have my size in the store, so I’m wearing a size medium in the picture. A simple, flowy solution for concealed carry!

Utility Blouse

The Ruffle Utility Blouse (Small) is a timeless item and great for mixing and matching. The ruffle adds a feminine touch to this simple, yet elegant piece. Since it’s a lighter color, I’ll be wearing a beige or cream tank top underneath, both for the sake of modesty and better concealment.

I hope the pictures above inspire you, as you put together your own concealed carry-friendly outfits. After you find your “easy go-to” blouses, have fun styling them in different ways!

Style with Layers

Layering pieces overtop or underneath are a great way to do that, especially during fall and winter. For additional suggestions, here are a few layering options I discovered during my latest shopping trip.

Cable Sweater (XS)| Puffer Vest (M) | Draped Cardigan (S) |Corduroy Jacket (M)

P.S.: If you’re wondering about my shoes, they’re also from LOFT and can be found Here.

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“Chime-In!”

What pieces could you mix with a concealed carry blouse to showcase your own personal style?

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