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.
Seriously goes with everything.
I own this in multiple colors, it's that good.
The scallop trim sets this sweater apart. Plus, it's on sale.
Step up any sweater and jeans outfit with these bold stripes.
Oversized everything.
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.
A little sparkle never killed anybody.
I mean, this just looks so cozy.
Love the sleeve length.
This cut is so flattering.
Ralph Lauren vibes.
BUTTON-DOWNS
A button-down is an elevated wardrobe staple that goes perfectly with everything, even your most worn-out jeans.
A silk top on sale? Yes, please.
Add a touch of femininity to your daily look.
Checkered print isn't going anywhere.
Every closet needs a white button-down. It's a fact.
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.
Super flattering.
Perfect for a front-tuck.
Anything but boring.
KNITS
Fall is sweater weather, and knits are the key to staying warm and looking chic when the temperatures begin to drop.
Fair isle for fall.
Pair this one with your white denim.
Perfect for layering under your winter puffer.
Add a pop of color.
ATHLUXE
Champion is the champion of these types of sweatshirts. Get it?
In Ganni we trust.
This subtle graphic is so chic.
Vintage vibes.
Incorporate a little color into your look.
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?
These sleeves.
Pair with your favorite black jeans for a chic office look.
Looking for a fresh take on those skinny jeans? We're making a serious case for skinny corduroys this season too.
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Don't Freak Out, But Cigarette Pants Are Back—5 Ways to Style ThemFrom an editor and the runways.
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5 Issues Everyone Has With Skinny Jeans and How to Fix ThemRead this before your next shopping trip.
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Bella Hadid Just Ditched Baggy Jeans for This Skinny-Adjacent StyleCould the tides be turning?
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These 18 Pairs of Jeans Are Cute, Comfortable, and Under $75—You're WelcomeThank me later.
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Fashion People Will Live in These 9 Specific Jeans Trends This FallJust add flats.
