35 (Secretly Affordable) Tops That Go With Your Skinny Jeans
Spending over $100 on a top? Not today. Although it would be just lovely to go full Pretty Woman for the new season (i.e., overhaul my entire wardrobe with a credit card–maxing shopping spree), the reality is that by now, I own enough of those investment staples that I no longer feel like I need a massive refresh each year when things get chilly. I'm mostly just in need of a handful of affordable, on-trend, upper-half updates that work with my much-thrashed vintage Levi's.
Skinnies, straight-legs, relaxed-fit ankle grazers… Whatever your denim vibe, it's high time to give your go-to jeans outfit a little update for these cooler temps. All it takes is a fresh new top, so saddle up: Everything below is a bona fide $100-or-less steal and 100% ready for your denim styling pleasure.
MOCKNECKS
Not quite a turtleneck, not quite a crew neck. Mocknecks are the perfect in between for a laid-back look.
HALF-ZIPS
We're making a case for half-zips being the new hoodie. The combination sweater and sweatshirt is the perfect way to stay on-trend while also remaining incredibly comfortable. Plus, they look great with any style of jeans.
BUTTON-DOWNS
A button-down is an elevated wardrobe staple that goes perfectly with everything, even your most worn-out jeans.
FALL TEES
Tees are a year-round go-to but there's always room to upgrade. This fall we're opting for more oversized options and tees with longer sleeves to mix up the typical tee and jeans look.
An oversized t-shirt that's perfect for those days when you just don't feel like getting out of your PJs.
KNITS
Fall is sweater weather, and knits are the key to staying warm and looking chic when the temperatures begin to drop.
ATHLUXE
Champion is the champion of these types of sweatshirts. Get it?
DAY-TO-NIGHT
And last but not least, the day-to-night tops that you can wear from work to weekend. Dress up your jeans with these more formal options.
Ruched, cropped, and off-the-shoulder. What more could you want in a top?
Looking for a fresh take on those skinny jeans? We're making a serious case for skinny corduroys this season too.
Natalie Cantell is an NYC-based style director, creative consultant, and fashion editor, who regularly contributes from Paris. She was the executive director of Who What Wear and Marie Claire’s brand studio until 2023, and now freelances globally on shoots, stories, and special projects.
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