I've Got Expensive Taste, But This £7 Tank Top Is My Most-Worn Wardrobe Staple

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

I wear mine under a shirt, probably five out of seven days a week—don't worry, I own multiple.

It's been an affliction of mine since I was young that I have ridiculously expensive taste, but rarely enough budget to indulge it. Much to my parents'—and now husband's—dismay, I've always believed I was put on this earth to lounge around my Malibu holiday home in top-to-toe The Row, with a closet full of Hermès waiting in the wings. Sadly, it's just not a reality for me (yet), so instead I've made a career out of finding the most expensive-looking and -feeling buys at a more accessible price point. I'm not embarrassed to say I can be a little bit of a snob when it comes to shopping—especially on the high street—as I hate compromising on quality and style for affordability. However, there is one item in my wardrobe that, even if (when) I win the lottery, I would still buy from the high street again and again—and it's a £7 ribbed vest top from H&M.

As a fashion editor with quite classic, minimalist style, you can trust me when I say I've tried so many basic tank tops in my decade of working in this industry. For me, a white tank top is the linchpin of a successful warm-weather wardrobe—in fact, it's a piece I wear constantly year round as a layer, but it really comes into its own in spring and summer. From designer styles courtesy of Toteme and Agolde to premium high street versions from COS and Arket, I've put them all to the test, and the one that comes up top every time is H&M's ribbed vest top.

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

H&M's ribbed vest top is the perfect partner for jeans.

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

It's the perfect base layer for tailoring in spring.

I'm not the only number one fan, either. The tank top in question has over 1000 reviews with an average of 5 stars and as a result it's honestly a miracle if you manage to find it in stock. What makes it so good, I hear you ask? Well, firstly, it comes in a multitude of colours to choose from (yes, I have it in many of them). Secondly, the cotton used is really nice and thick, so it feels supportive when you put it on and it's not see-through either (meaning there's no need for a bra for those of us who feel comfortable enough without one). Thirdly, the slight racer design is really flattering, hitting at all the right points—plus, it's available in a diverse range of sizes and most colours go up to a 4XL (bravo, H&M). And finally, it washes really well—I've put mine through the ringer so many times and it's not stretched, bobbled, worn out or anything.

All this for a bargain £6.99. If you don't have one, get one (or a few, like I did)—then thank me later.

Shop the H&M Ribbed Vest Top:

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing brand.

Emily has worked forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, teamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.