I need a little help here.  Many years ago, I was told that if the bottom of a blouse is cut straight across then it may be worn untucked.  But if the bottom of a blouse has a sort of U-shape at the sides, then it should be worn tucked in.  My question is, does this guideline still apply?  I'm so out of the loop on fashion that I don't want to embarrass myself!!   :P

I'm not a hundred percent on anything.  :-/ But I don't see why you couldn't where the shirt either way. In my opinion it gives two different looks and depending on the pants or skirt and if you plan on using a belt it might look better one way or the other. *shrug* I've never tucked a shirt in in my lifetime, even under a blazer. I think it's preference and like I said the look you want. The shirt out looks slightly more casual. Whereas in with a belt or high-waisted pants or skirt gives a more sleek/professional look. Just use your best judgment and where what you think looks best for the situation. Certainly there has to be more important criteria than whether one tucks in their shirt or not.  ::)

The u-shape is considered "tails" and is meant to be worn tucked in.  Look at a man's dress shirt for example, the u-shape has less fabric so it doesn't bunch up. A straight hem is meant to be worn un-tucked.

But as to "fashion" I say go with what makes you comfortable! ;)

I've always "lived" by those rules, but then I still live by the rules that bra straps should never show, a shirt should never hang below your sweater, a jacket should come to at least your waist, and you should never show belly skin except when wearing a bathing suit.   Obviously, I have very out of date fashion rules, so you probably shouldn't listen to me.  ;)

Ok, so I'm not by any means a "fashionista." ::) However...fashion "rules" change almost on a daily basis. Forget them! Wear whatever you want however you want - but only go outdoors if it's flattering. ;)

Interestingly enough, I believe ALL of you are right!   ;D  Anyway, thanks for the advice, ladies.

I have no idea about fashion rules or any other sort of rules like decorating etc.  I simply go by my own gut and my own tastes.  Honestly, I believe that everyone should.  That's part of what makes us unique.

I'm just curious though.  If a shirt is tucked in...how would anyone other than you know wether it's cut straight across or U shaped? :-?  Unless of course the blouse is short.

I remembered that the U-shape is called a shirttail hem.  It's prevalent in men's designs (though not exclusive, obviously) as a way to help keep the shirt tucked into pants.  And LaDiosa, no one would know.   :)  My curiosity lies more with knowing whether it's all right to leave a shirttail hem out.  

It's most definitely alright to leave a shirttail hem out. Many tunics are designed this way and meant to be left out on purpose.

I'd say it depended on where you were going to wear the shirt.  I'm no fashonista  :) but often I will tuck in a shirt just in case.  Even though I'm so high-waisted it makes me look like I'm wearing my pants all the way up to my neck.  :P

Skyfire, I'm in the same boat.  I have long legs but a short torso, thus very little waist.   >:(  

Well, I took another look at those new blouses I purchased, a good long look this time, and have determined the shirttail hem is not as severe as I'd originally thought.  So the shirts DO look fine being untucked.  In fact, I'm wearing one today untucked *gasp*   ;D  with jeans.  Thanks for all of your thoughts and advice on this, gals.  I can always count on you to steer me right.  

I'm not a fashionista.  That's kind of difficult to be when I generally think that women over 70 dress the nicest and to the standard that the rest of us should be dressing to.  I am aware of those rules and I'm also quite happy for anyone who breaks fashion rules.