Back to School Shopping: 5 Cute Daytime Tops Under $50
Continuing CF’s Ultimate Back to School Shopping List, today we’re going to talk cute tops for daytime.
In yesterday’s article, Top Trends for Fall 2009, we went over the hottest trends you’ll be seeing in stores when it comes to tops. Today the focus is on shopping, with some cute and inexpensive tops that will take you from the classroom to the dorm to work and back, plus two different ways to wear each option.
Here are 5 cute tops for daytime, some trendy and some classic, all under $50, along with ways to wear them.
Since most of us are on a budget, this of course isn’t a list of things you have to run out and buy for fall – it’s simply a look at what’s hot right now and how you can incorporate that into your wardrobe this season. For a truly budget friendly take on this list, shop your own closet! You may already have similar items in your wardrobe.
1. The Perfect Basic Tee
V-Neck Tee – $15.50 at American Eagle
I don’t know about you, but I can’t think of a top more versatile or essential for daytime than the slouchy basic tee. It keeps you cool when it’s hot out, layers perfectly under everything, never looks too dressy and can be worn a million different ways. Even better, if you’re shopping on a budget, you can’t get more budget friendly than the slouchy basic tee shirt.
Outfit Idea #1:
Pair your basic tee with denim shorts layered over lace bike shorts for an ultra trendy look. Add gladiator sandals and a statement necklace to finish.
Product Information: Denim Shorts – American Eagle, Necklace – 1928.com, Sandals – Wet Seal, Lace Bike Shorts – Charlotte Russe
Outfit Idea #2:
A basic slouchy tee also looks great partially tucked into skinny jeans with a belt. Just tuck the front of the shirt in to show off your cute belt, and add a few pretty accessories for a look that’s cute and casual for everyday.
Product Information: Sandals – Wet Seal, Skinny Jeans – TopShop, Belt – Wet Seal, Necklace – Forever 21, Butterfly Purse – TopShop
2. The Draped Tank
Petites Grey Drape Vest – $30 at Miss Selfridge
As you know if you read yesterday’s article, draping is a huge fall 2009 fashion trend. For a trendy look that’s the perfect transition between summer and fall, look no further than the draped tank. It works during the day to add polish and interest to any outfit, and it’s also the perfect party shirt for night.
Outfit Idea #1:
Wear a draped tank with denim shorts and black tights during the fall. Cute brown boots add contrast, and fun accessories are just that – fun.
Product Information: Faux Chanel Sunglasses – Girlprops, Boots and Shorts – Forever 21, Bracelets – TopShop, Tights – Charlotte Russe
Outfit Idea #2:
For a look that’s trendy and polished, pair the draped tank with a blazer, slouchy boyfriend jeans, and statement studded booties. Finish it off with a colorful bag like this cobalt one from Aldo.
Product Information: Blazer – TopShop, Studded Booties – Charlotte Russe, Boyfriend Jeans – Tilly’s, Purse – Aldo
3. The Striped Shirt
Stripe Cotton Lycra Tunic – $34 at TopShop
The breton striped shirt, or sailor shirt for those unfamiliar with fashion lingo, is a piece that’s both timeless and current at the exact same time. Celebs like Olivia Palermo and Alexa Chung have been wearing their breton shirts everywhere lately, helping to resurrect this fashion classic.
I love the sailor shirt for fall because it works with almost anything during the day. For maximum versatility, invest in a tunic version of the shirt – that way you can wear it tucked in, as a dress, or slouchy over jeans. It’s all about options.
Outfit Idea #1:
For an easy look to wear to class, try wearing a striped shirt with a simple cardigan, skinny jeans, and pretty flats. Add colorful accessories if you want, or keep the whole look neutral to let the shirt shine.
Product Information: Cardigan – American Eagle, Bracelet – ModCloth, Metallic Flats – BP ‘Frankie’ at Nordstrom, Skinny Jeans – TopShop
Outfit Idea #2:
The striped shirt can be ultrachic when worn with black and other neutrals. In the outfit below, I paired the shirt with black shorts, a grey cardigan, and this season’s favorite footwear – the flat oxford in shiny black patent. Simple accessories keep the look chic without going over the top.
Product Information: Shorts and Cardigan – Dorothy Perkins, Oxfords – Aldo, Bracelet – Aerie by American Eagle, Purse – Forever 21
4. The Boyfriend Shirt
White Oversize Mens Shirt – $42 at Dorothy Perkins
Menswear-inspired fashion is hot right now, so along with the boyfriend jean and the boyfriend blazer, the boyfriend shirt is equally trendy for fall. What’s this trend all about? Basically, the boyfriend shirt is just that – a button down shirt that looks like it could have been borrowed from a guy. Of course, if you don’t want to go out and buy one, you can just borrow a shirt from a guy. There are tons of options in stores, though as well if you’re not inclined to steal from the boys.
Outfit Idea #1:
Unbutton the boyfriend shirt and wear it like a cardigan over shorts and a flowy tank. Add slouchy boots for some bad girl edge, and studded bracelets for an extra dose of rocker chic.
Product Information: Sunglasses – LANA at American Apparel, Tank – TopShop, Shorts – American Eagle, Boots – Forever 21, Bracelets – Dorothy Perkins
Outfit Idea #2:
If long enough, the boyfriend shirt can also double as a dress when worn over a long tank and leggings. In this outfit, I added pink Doc Martens for a splash of color. A standout ring is a fun conversation piece, while a chain bag adds a chic touch.
Product Information: Ring and Purse – ModCloth, Tank and Boots – Forever 21, Leggings – Charlotte Russe, Belt – TopShop
5. The Plaid Shirt
Elisa Plaid Shirt – $40 at dELiA*s
They were all over the cities and college campuses last season, and plaid shirts aren’t going anywhere this fall either. Love them or hate them, plaid button down shirts are here to stay for the time being. Personally, I like plaid shirts and think they can work in numerous outfits. Here are some of my ideas for how to wear the plaid shirt above:
Outfit Idea #1:
I like plaid shirts worn unbuttoned over simple tanks. In this outfit, I added a bib style necklace to draw attention toward the face and add interest, but you could keep it simple without the jewelry if you wanted. Finish this look off with skinny jeans and some simple flats, and you have the perfect outfit for a crisp fall day on campus.
Product Information: Tank – Rvca at Pacsun.com, Necklace – Forever 21, Flats – Charlotte Russe, Skinny Jeans – Pacsun.com
Outfit Idea #2:
While it’s still warm out, wear your plaid shirt with shorts and a tank. Again, I like plaid shirts unbuttoned, but if you like them buttoned up, that’s cool too! Throw on some bangles and your favorite gladiator sandals for that effortlessly stylish look.
Product Information: Bracelets – Miss Selfridge, Shorts – Forever 21, Tank – James Perse, Gladiator Sandals – Wet Seal
Your Thoughts?
Those are just some of my ideas.. I’m sure you guys can come up with tons of other fabulous ways to wear these cute daytime tops this fall. Each piece is extremely versatile, so there’s no end to what you can come up with!
Which outfit is your favorite? Which tops do you already own and which do you plan to get for fall? How would you wear them? Let me know what you think.
Posted on on August 5, 2009 / Filed Under: Shopping / Tags: AE, Aldo, American Apparel, American Eagle, Back to School Shopping, Boots, Boyfriend Jeans, Charlotte Russe, Delias, Denim, Doc Martens, Fall 2009, Gladiator Sandals, Grey, How To, Ideas, Outfits, Oxfords, Pacsun, Plaid, School, Shopping, Shorts, Tights, Tops, Topshop, Trends
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shelby
I just bought two of the basic t-shirts from American Eagle and I love them! ridiculously soft, great colors (I got heather gray and a rich lavender), and they’re actually $12.95 a piece if you buy 2 or more (or they were at my store). Affordable FTW!
katgee
one word about this post. AMAZING!
its a big help especially now im starting to buy pieces for back to school!!
thankss!!
Jen
Oh, I love this post! You did a great job with the outfits. I’d personally wear almost every single one of them! Definitely makes me want to go out and buy some more accessories/shoes.
Kellene
Great post! I always love when you put outfits together, it helps me to take a look at my closet and see all new combinations! You are a life saver!
Michelle
I’m absolutely in LOVE with the simple v-neck trend. I recently have gotten some at Victoria’s Secret (PINK). They are incredibly comfy and soft (even more so than AE’s which I have a couple of too!). I pair them with a high waisted belt, or a summer scarf. They have whites, bright pinks to follow the neon trend, and my favorite is a navy blue which is a great transition into the colder months.
Kudos for such a great article.
Jess
I absolutely love this post. I love all these outfits. So cute and so my style. I am going to the mall soon lol. Thank you
beccap
thank you so much for this article!! i had never heard of dorothy perkins before this and after perusing the website for half an hour, i spent almost $100! plus if you google promo codes, you can get 10% off your first purchase! i love it because i am a plus size girl and love to follow fashion and trends, but its hard to do so…most of these don’t feature plus sizes, and if they do, they look like they’re for old ladies! thanks for such a great recommendation :)
Simona
This article is very interesting, you did a great job. I have a few ideas too: I like to wear the basic tee with tank tops on and the other idea is to wear it with shirts tied up around the waist.
Lena Michelle
the bike shorts one is such a great idea :) i’d be hunting for them over the next two weeks before going off to college! and i actually love bottoned plaid shirts too :P i think it looks really neat.
I’ve noticed that there are so many studded bracelets in this article, and i totally love the look! however, my wrist is so small that i hardly find any that can fit me :( any tips :(?
im so going to buy a few basic tshirts and a long breton striped shirt :D they ARE so versatile!
Thanks and I love this article, as always<3
Luinae
My ultimate slouchy t-shirt is a Marks and Spencers fairtrade cotton t-shirt in white- they even have tons of other colours!
I especially loved the outfits around the plaid shirt- I have a great purple one and now I have awesome way to wear it. Some of the other outfits were a bit to plain for my taste- but I understand that sometimes you don’t want tons of colour and neutrals are easier to mix and match.
Inspiring post!
Aury@ An Ordinary Girl's World
Great post !
I read somewhere that some people wear the boyfriend shirt with dresses. How would that be done and have u ever seen it?
Erin
Aury, I do that and I think that its wicked comfortable and easy. I just use the boyfriend shirt as a replacement for a cardigan, basically throw it over whatever dress (I find simple jersey dresses work the best) and leave it unbuttoned and the sleeves rolled up. Or every once in a while I’ll button it up over a dress and belt it too, so that hte dress almost looks like a skirt. I find you need a belt so you look like you still have a waist. :)
yuenz
i totally love this blog post!!..i always have trouble mix matching outfits and the accessories for the outfits are simply too cute!..gotta save up some money..lol!
more of these similar articles PLS!!. :)
Kat
@ beccap, you should also look at evans.co.uk – they are the plus size version of TopShop, and their clothes are very fashionable as well.
deja
I love this article and plan to buy these pieces!
Dubai Stylista
Such a brilliant, well- timed post! Loved the outfit ideas.
Aire
Hi Zephyr,
Thanks for featuring our bracelet, ring and purse on your site! I I love all of the outfits you put together!
<3 Aire
ModCloth.com
Karen
I like the plaid shirt unbuttoned (or just the middle button…um….buttoned) over a simple lacy tank and a denim skirt.
Not sure I’m going to be getting a breton shirt, but I definitely need some new basic tees!
beccap
@Kat: thanks for the great recommendation!! It’ll probably get a little pricey because its from the UK and I’m from the US but I love the clothes & plan on getting some!! wish i knew about it before…hah
Aury@ An Ordinary Girl's World
Thanks Erin! I’ll try out!
Allison
I love this post!! Like you’ve said, Collegefashion is so unique because it is the only website around that shows fashion that can be worn on campus. I love that it has stayed true to this fact and I’m so excited for back to school shopping! Thanks so much!
johnieemma
WOW! This is brillant! I love how you repeated some items, like the slouch boots. It’s so helpful to see items worn different ways because we def can’t afford a new shoe for every outfit in college!
Thanks so much for this….keep up this outfit example posting- i love it!
johnie emma
Janell Necole
I guess that color is not an option this year?
Cute ideas but I like color!! Where’s the COLOR!?
Alaina W
The government should fund you and all you do because you are stimulating the economy by making it irresistible to go to the mall and spend some money! :) Great post!
Emily
I totally agree with Alaina W! I love this website and I can’t wait to see what you do in your other posts! I’m searching for some wintery skirts and bottoms besides jeans, so I’m excited for your post on those!
Jackie
I absolutely LOOOOOVE your outfit posts. Honestly, they really help alot! I find it hard to put together an awesome outfit, and you really help to inspire. Thanks. :>)
Jennifer
Plaid shirts remind me of the grunge trend of the ninties, but I still love them, especially now that they’ve come out with a more fitted, almost blouse-like plaid shirt.
Basic tees are at the top of my shopping list this year though, I can never get enough! And at $7.50 each at a lot of stores they’re very affordable.
Melissa Kay
This post was great! Really got some inspiration for new outfits from it. I LOVE basic tees!
Ally
DOROTHY PERKINS IS AMAZING. Thank you SO much for posting some of their stuff – I just bought this amazing black military jacket and I can’t wait to get it! The price conversion was a little rough with the rest of the stuff I also snatched up, but they look like great pieces.
Julia
I love you for this post. That is all.
sunshower
fabulous article!!! this is so helpful!
Lydia
u can never go past a v-neck top!!!
Jessi
i just tried on my brothers button down shirt with a wide belt at the waist, some tights, and the sleeves rolled up (his arms are way longer than mine) and it looked awesome! i realized i could dress it down to go shopping or dress it up when i go out!
love the article and will def. be trying out some of ur ideas! thanks!
Deanne
If you live in Canada, more specifically Ontario, you can get basic tees from Giant Tiger for very cheap! I suddenly feel inspired to buy a cute pair of mary jane flats… :)
Reneé
I’ve been buying lots of basic pieces in the last few weeks ! the basic white tee is great and the draped one is fab !! great outfit ideas :)
Maria
Love your outfit ideas! I’m definitely going to try those. :)
Mani
I own the boyfriend-tee! I wear it tucked into my shorts or skinny jeans, and sometimes if I’m wearing destroyed denim shorts I put some lacy black leggings underneath to make a statement. Lots of cute outfits here! I wish I could pull off the boyfriend shirt but it just swallows me whole…
Victoria
I love your site! All the outfits here are fabolous, and I plan to use them when returning to college in September. I was wondering if you could post an article for fashionable looks this year for colder weather? I live in the UK, and it’s often very cold and rainy here. Your rainy weather outfits blog was helpful, but one for what to wear in codler weather would be ideal. =)
Thanks, and once again, great job!
xoxo Toria
Olga
This post is amazing–and especially great for me. Four of those tops were already on my back to school shopping list! My favorite way to wear the plaid top is over white tee with black graphics. I hadn’t ever thought of buying a draped shirt, though, and will definitely be looking for a good one!
Shelly
THANK YOU! The above two articles are LIFESAVERS for college girls like me who are fashionably retarted. :) I love how you state the trends so simply, and then suggest ways to wear them. Oh, SO glad to have come across this!
Now my complaint about the current trends – what is a preppy girly girl supposed to do with all of these ROCKER CHIC and MENSWEAR treands?! …Sigh, maybe next year there will be more frills…
Nana
Hi, I love all this post.
But I was just wondering if accessories work for V-cut tees. Because they usually look rather weird as the v-cut is placing a lot of emphasis on your collar bone… Won’t the accessories make it look funny?
caro
hi – love your site.
question: do you have a place on this site where all the outfits that you´ve ever put together are combined?
if not, i think that would be great – so we could just pick looks and buy from there.
thanks, caro
Zephyr
Victoria – Definitely! Expect more posts on what to wear in cold weather as it gets closer to fall.
Shelly – Keep doing your thing! Every trend isn’t for everyone. Personal style is forever in, so feel free to ignore the trends as you please. :)
Nana – Really depends on the type of accessories, where they’re placed, etc. In general, you can consider a v-neck tee a basic. The fact that it’s a v shape really only matters for necklaces. Other accessories are fine, 99% of the time. When in doubt, though, wear fewer accessories. Simple is always chic, but too much is just too much.
Caro – I don’t have a specific place with all the outfits on one page, but you can see all the blog posts tagged “outfits”. Hope it helps!
erica
i just had to tell you that this article basically saved my life. i just got a paycheck that i planned to use for back to school shopping but i literally had no clue where to start until i saw this. now my head is teeming with ideas! thanks zephyr, you never fail to impress. =)
Kasumi
I love the stripped shirt and associated outfits. I especially like the tucked-in look with the black shorts!