The Reformation Marlena Top brings a little romance into ordinary clothes without looking dressed up. It's sleeveless and relaxed, with a V-neck, a tie at the neckline, a scalloped hem and a light, fluid drape. It comes in black and in a pale shade called Gossamer. From a construction point of view, that scalloped edge is the detail to protect: most of what I suggest below is about letting it show. Denim keeps the top casual, tailoring makes it polished, and a flowing skirt brings out its softer side. Twenty outfits follow, from hot weekends to business-casual days.
Untucked, Half-Tucked or Belted
A scalloped hem is cut and finished to be seen, so my default with this top is to leave it out. The question is where it lands. Untucked works best when the hem falls at or just over the waistband of a high-rise bottom. If it hangs well past a low-rise jean, the loose body looks longer and boxier than it is.
When you want more waist, tuck only a small section at the center front and let the scallops at the sides fall freely. A full tuck hides the edge and leaves the scallops as lumps under a skirt or trouser, which is the one look I'd avoid. A slim belt over the untucked top rarely works either, because it cinches the drape into folds right above the decorative hem.
- High-rise straight jeans, Bermuda shorts, A-line skirts: leave it out.
- Pleated trousers, flares and barrel legs: a small center-front tuck.
- Satin and slip skirts: out if the waist is flat, a short half tuck if the skirt sits very high.
1. Reformation Marlena Top With Straight Leg Jeans
Black Marlena, high-waisted straight-leg jeans in medium blue: this is the outfit I'd wear most often. The straight leg is plain enough to let the drape and scalloped hem do the work. I leave it untucked so the hemline shows, or tuck just a few centimeters at the front if I want more waist. Black leather ballet flats, a structured shoulder bag and small gold hoops. A slim black belt links the top and shoes if you tuck. When it cools down, a beige trench goes over the top.
2. Reformation Marlena Top With White Linen Pants
White linen trousers turn the black top into a holiday outfit. I'd go for a high-rise wide leg with a flat, smooth waistband; a drawstring waist under a loose top looks more beach than dinner. Wear the top out so the scallops sit against the white. Tan flat sandals, a woven leather tote, gold earrings and classic sunglasses, or swap the tote for a raffia clutch in the evening. Keep the palette to black, white, tan and gold. One fabric note: white linen wrinkles at the hip and knee as soon as you sit, so press it right before you go out.
3. Reformation Marlena Top With Tailored Black Trousers
All black can still show detail, as long as the textures differ. Pair the top with tailored black trousers in a crepe or wool blend, so the matte trouser sits against the lighter drape of the top. A straight or gently wide leg keeps the line clean, and the scalloped hem and neck tie give the eye somewhere to land. Pointed black flats or low kitten heels, a compact burgundy bag for one note of color, sculptural silver earrings and a narrow watch. For coverage, drape a charcoal blazer over your shoulders rather than buttoning it over the top. A creative office or dinner with friends suits it.
4. Reformation Marlena Top With Satin Midi Skirt
A satin midi with the black top is my pick for a lunch that needs a bit of polish. Champagne, ivory or muted olive satin falling below the knee contrasts with the dry, light texture of the top. I keep it untucked when the skirt allows, because the shaped hem marks the waist on its own and a tuck adds bulk under satin. If the skirt sits very high, a small half tuck evens things out. Delicate black slingbacks, a leather clutch and drop earrings. For air-conditioned rooms, carry a cropped cardigan or fitted blazer that stops at the waist.
5. Reformation Marlena Top With Denim Shorts
On a hot day, denim shorts make the top practical. I'd choose a high rise with a longer inseam and a clean hem. Medium wash contrasts nicely with black, and white or ecru shorts look brighter for a holiday. Flat leather sandals, a woven crossbody, gold hoops and rectangular sunglasses. Skip shredded denim; the neckline and scallops are decoration enough. An oversized white cotton shirt, worn open with rolled sleeves, covers your shoulders when the sun gets strong.
6. Reformation Marlena Top With A White Maxi Skirt
A white maxi skirt brings out the romantic side, and the black top stops it from going too sweet. Look for cotton poplin, a linen blend or a soft tiered skirt with a fitted waistband and moderate volume. Minimal black sandals, a small basket bag and pearl or gold earrings. I'd wear my hair up so the tie at the neckline stays visible. If you're petite, pick a length that shows the ankle and add a low platform sandal, because a floor-length tiered skirt can swallow a smaller frame. Sightseeing, summer lunches and garden parties.
7. Reformation Marlena Top With A Denim Maxi Skirt
A dark-wash denim maxi feels current and is still easy to walk in, provided it has a front slit. The high waist gives shape under the loose top. If you want some of the waistband to show, tuck only the center front. Pointed ballet flats, a dark brown shoulder bag and quiet gold jewelry. A slim leather belt is optional when the skirt already fits closely at the waist. This is a good late-summer outfit that carries into early fall with a cropped suede jacket or a fitted cardigan left open at the neck.
8. Reformation Marlena Top With Pleated Trousers
Pleated trousers make the top work-ready without a button-down shirt. Choose high-waisted pairs in camel, stone, chocolate or soft gray with a relaxed leg and neat front pleats. A partial tuck defines the waist and leaves the scalloped sides showing. Leather loafers, a structured tote and a simple watch keep it business casual. Gold warms camel and brown; silver suits gray. If you need a jacket, choose one that's slightly cropped. A long blazer covers the hem, and the hem is the reason to wear this top. Office days, conferences and travel.
9. Reformation Marlena Top With A Linen Midi Skirt
A high-waisted linen midi in beige, cream, olive or terracotta gives the top a natural, warm-weather feel. Straight, softly flared or wrap-style skirts all work, as long as they don't add a lot of volume under an already loose top. Neutral strappy sandals and a woven bag, with small gold hoops and a fine bracelet. Linen creases by design, so I keep the shoes and bag structured; that way the creases read as relaxed rather than careless. On very hot days, leave the top loose so air can move under it.
10. Reformation Marlena Top With A Mini Skirt
A simple A-line mini makes a playful outfit, and its small flare echoes the movement of the scalloped hem. Black, cream, dark denim or chocolate all work; I'd avoid a very tight mini, which fights the relaxed cut of the top. Loafers with ankle socks give a preppy daytime version, sleek slingback flats a neater one. A structured top-handle bag and stud earrings. For more coverage, choose a skort, or add sheer black tights in cooler months. Keep layers light so the neck tie stays the main detail.
11. Reformation Marlena Top With Barrel Leg Jeans
Barrel-leg jeans give the relaxed top a modern shape. I'd choose a high rise with controlled volume through the leg and a cropped or ankle-length hem. Light blue reads casual, and ecru or dark indigo looks more polished. The jeans carry a strong outline, so the rest stays simple: slim leather sandals, pointed flats or low sneakers, a compact shoulder bag and geometric earrings. A partial front tuck defines the waist, though the top can stay out if the jeans fit closely at the hip. Errands, lunches and travel days.
12. Reformation Marlena Top With A Suit
Worn under a suit, this top softens tailoring in a way a shirt can't. Start with a relaxed blazer and matching trousers in beige, soft gray, navy or chocolate, and let the neck tie show at the opening. Check that the blazer has room through the chest, or the light fabric will bunch under the lapels. Pointed flats or low heels, a structured work bag and plain metal jewelry. In summer, a linen-blend suit with the sleeves pushed up slightly feels cooler. Take the blazer off after the meeting and the top and trousers still look finished.
13. Reformation Marlena Top With Leather Pants
Leather or coated pants add an edge without overpowering the top. Choose straight or gently tapered legs in black, deep brown or burgundy. The relaxed top softens the sleek pants, and the scallops stop an all-black version looking severe. Pointed ankle boots or streamlined slingbacks and a small structured bag. Silver looks more modern; gold warms it up. I'd keep the coat slim, a fitted wool coat or a clean leather blazer, since bulky outerwear on top of a loose top and shiny pants loses the shape completely. Coated denim gives a similar look and is easier for everyday wear.
14. Reformation Marlena Top With Cargo Pants
Cargo pants make the top feel casual and a little unexpected. Pick a tailored pair in olive, khaki or stone with flat side pockets rather than big bellows ones. A high or mid-rise waist balances the loose cut. Leave the top out, or tuck a little at the front if the pants have proper belt loops. White sneakers, a black crossbody and small hoops. The soft drape against stiff cotton twill gives the outfit character without any bold color. A light bomber covers you when the weather changes. Good for travel and weekend walks.
15. Reformation Marlena Top With A Printed Midi Skirt
A printed midi adds color while the black top anchors the outfit. The trick I use is choosing a print with a little black in it, such as a muted floral, a polka dot or a quiet geometric; the shared color connects the two pieces. Neutral shoes, black kitten heels, ballet flats or simple sandals, and a solid bag that picks up one secondary shade from the skirt. Keep jewelry minimal since the print and the neck tie are already busy. Pick a skirt with a defined waist and controlled movement rather than heavy tiers or ruffles.
16. Reformation Marlena Top With Bermuda Shorts
Bermuda shorts cover more than cutoffs and still feel breezy. Choose high-waisted pairs in cream, black, camel or light gray, with a crisp front crease and a hem around the knee. That sharp construction is what lets the top work for city days and smart-casual settings. Leather loafers or slingback flats, a structured handbag, and a slim belt if the shorts need one. Simple earrings and sunglasses. If you add a blazer in the same color as the shorts, you get a short suit that handles a warm office or a lunch meeting.
17. Reformation Marlena Top With Cropped Flare Jeans
Cropped flares lengthen the leg under the top, especially with a little heel. Dark indigo looks polished and medium blue more casual. The jeans should fit neatly through the hip before widening below the knee; if they're loose at the hip as well, the outfit loses its waist. Block-heel sandals, pointed ankle boots or low wedges, a small suede shoulder bag and understated gold jewelry. If you're petite, a partial tuck keeps the waistline visible. On cooler days, a jacket that stops near the waistband keeps the proportions right.
18. Reformation Marlena Top With A Slip Skirt And Cardigan
For cooler weather, layer the top under a cropped cardigan with a bias-cut slip skirt in black, burgundy, chocolate or muted green. Leave the cardigan's top buttons open so the V-neck and tie still show. I'd choose a fine, smooth knit; a chunky cardigan flattens a lightweight top and adds bulk at the bust. Knee-high boots, a structured shoulder bag and small earrings. A long tailored coat keeps you warm and keeps the outline long. Fall lunches, museums and dinners.
19. Reformation Marlena Top With Ecru Jeans
Ecru jeans are softer than bright white and work with both colors of this top. The black version gives a strong contrast; Gossamer creates a pale, tonal outfit. Straight, slim or relaxed wide legs all suit, as long as the waistband lies flat under the top. Chocolate loafers with a matching belt and a structured tote ground it, with gold jewelry and tortoiseshell sunglasses. I'd wear this in spring and early fall with a tan trench, a cropped denim jacket or a fine-knit cardigan. Keep the denim clean rather than distressed.
20. Reformation Marlena Top With A Matching Black Skirt
A matching black skirt gives you the look of a dress with the flexibility of separates. Choose a clean A-line midi, a fitted column or a flowing ankle-length skirt in a fabric close to the top. The two blacks need to match closely; a slightly brown-black next to a blue-black shows in daylight. Metallic sandals or burgundy slingbacks break up the dark palette, with a compact clutch or structured mini bag. Statement earrings frame the open neck, so I'd skip the necklace. A tailored cream blazer makes it easier to wear during the day.
The Side View Under a Sleeveless V
Relaxed sleeveless tops tend to have roomy armholes, and that's where the side of a bra shows when you lift your arm or lean on a table. Check it in a mirror from the side before you wear it out. A bra in your skin tone with a smooth side wing hides better than lace, and on the black version a black bra disappears entirely.
The V-neck brings a second check. Lean forward: if the V opens enough to show the center of your bra, a plunge style solves it. Tying the neck tie a little tighter closes the V slightly without changing how the top drapes.
For an office with air conditioning, I treat this as a top that always travels with a layer. A cropped cardigan or an unlined blazer covers the arms and the armholes without hiding the scalloped hem, which is the detail you bought it for.
Black or Gossamer?
Black is the easier color to own. It hides the bra question, goes with every bottom in this list and dresses up with satin. The pale Gossamer shade suits a softer, tonal wardrobe of ecru, cream and light denim, but pale, light fabrics show more of what's underneath, so plan on smooth, skin-tone layers with it.
Let the Scalloped Hem Show
Across all twenty, this one top covers casual, office and evening wear. Straight denim and shorts make it easy for everyday plans, while satin skirts, matching separates and tailored trousers dress it up. Proportion does most of the work: defined waistbands, slim shoes and structured bags balance a loose drape and a decorative hem. Untucked shows off the scallops; a partial tuck gives more shape. The best Reformation Marlena Top outfit ideas here all keep the outfit cohesive and suited to where you're going.
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