I am all for spending money on that one item if there really isn’t a good alternative. Buying less expensive versions of things over any over again isn’t always a cheaper option if they never scratch that itch and you would have been better off buying the original once all along. However I am also of the mind that expensive isn’t always better. I have plenty of high street items, especially for summer that I love year after year and look just as good as more expensive options. These 6 blouses look expensive but they aren’t. They look like they could be sold at JCREW, Madewell or even Sezane but they are much more affordable.
Blouses that look expensive but aren’t
- Red Ruffle Blouse – I have this in white and it fits a bit less loose than I expected. I think it is the seam at the back that is making feel a bit more fitted than the rest of these options. This blouse reminds me of a Sezane blouse that I have from a few years ago. Love this tucked in with high waisted linen trousers.
- Collard stripe short sleeve top – I have this one as well in the stripe shown here. I love it. Might be my absolute favourite of the roundup. It is very lightweight and breezy. Great for super hot days when you still have to look put together. Can be dressed up tucked into work pants. Wear it loose with jeans or cut off shorts for a more laid back vibe.
- Linen shirts are so great for summer. Linen is really having a moment isn’t it? Well I have a blouse like this from Madewell from a few years ago and this one is just as good.
- Rust gauze shirt – cotton gauze has become really popular and is featured a bunch with linen styles. I feel like this would look great unbuttoned over a tank or swimsuit.
- Cinch waist top – Again I have this top in white. It is also made of the gauze fabric and is thicker than it looks. You can cinch it as much or as little as you want. Another top that looks fantastic with loose trousers for summer. Might have to get this colour too.
- Stripe v neck top – Ok I have this top from a previous year and I bought the red option this year. Again looks fantastic tucked into loose trousers for the office but can go with anything really.
All of these tops look way more expensive than the price tag. One key trick to find this type of top is stick with natural fibers. All of these tops are linen or cotton. I will say the fabric is a bit more sheer or thinner than it would be at a more expensive store. That said I don’t even mind since it is summer and summer is melty! I want loose and light anyways. But it is something to keep in mind especially if you are buying white blouses.
Which top is your pick?