Fall Fashion 2011: The Bow Blouse

The adorable owl print and droopy bow on this sunny-yellow shirt keep the style from feeling too fussy. (Lemon Liftoff Blouse, $118, Anthropologie)

With sheer sleeves, this blouse is cheeky and playful, but the somber color keeps it office-appropriate. (Swiss Dot Secretary Blouse, $59, Piperlime.com)

Slouchy yet fitted, this knit V-neck has snappy button details on the cuffs, and the sleek shape makes it perfect for wearing with skirts or with a smart sweater vest. (Halogen Long Sleeve Tie Neck Top, $58, Nordstrom)

With a delicate cowl neck, this shell, from White House Black Market, fits like a traditional button-up blouse. (Dot Bow Shell, $78, White House Black Market)

In a light olive green, this blouse has a bow detail that’s delicate, not overpowering. (Merona Collection “Carrigan” Woven Top, $26.99, Target)

This sleeveless shell works equally well by itself on warm autumn days and under a V-neck sweater when the mercury drops. (Cable & Gauge Bowneck Tank, $49.99, Lord and Taylor)

Casual yet corporate, this easygoing blouse can be dressed up with trousers or dressed way down with jeans. ($175, J.Crew)

With lacy details and cuffed sleeves, this whimsical blouse could have lived in your mom’s closet a generation ago. The generous cut is comfy, but still elegant. (“Fashionable Fancies” top, $49.99, ModCloth.com)

Part of Banana Republic’s Mad Men Collection, this top is sharply tailored and strikingly grown-up in a heathered plum shade. ($89.50, Banana Republic)

Eye-catching and whimsical, this sheer blouse has a fun swirly pattern. The deep green color is one of the hottest jewel-toned hues of the season. (Apt. 9 Swirl Chiffon Blouse, $19.99, Kohl’s)