I’m usually a t-shirt-and-jeans kind of girl, but lately I’ve been skipping the tee and reaching for something a little different. There are so many great tops this spring that feel a little fresher and more pulled together than a basic tee—and they add something extra without any extra effort.
Don’t worry, I’m not giving up my tees (I’m actually working on a post with my favorites!), but this season I’ve been mixing it up with blouses, button-ups, and lightweight knits. If you’re in the mood for a little change too, here are a few I’m loving right now. (No surprise—they’re all from EVEREVE!)
EVEREVE Cecila (S) // MOTHER Insider (29) (similar for less) // Sam Edelman Bambi Slides (8) // Jenny Bird Ola Bangle // Anna Beck necklace // similar hoops // Dragon Diffusion Woven Tote
This blue and white striped button-up is made from a textured linen-blend fabric with a flowy fit, shirred shoulders, and rolled dolman sleeves. I’m not sure it’s the most flattering silhouette on me—it tends to emphasize my boxier shoulders—but I’ve been enjoying it anyway. It has such a light, airy feel and looks especially pretty with light-wash denim.
To warm up the look and add some contrast, I styled it with raffia slides (love the tortoiseshell buckle!) and my Dragon Diffusion woven leather tote. These bags are handwoven in India, and I love the subtle variegated tones in the leather—it adds so much texture and character. I finished the look with a wavy gold bangle, a mixed-metal necklace, and simple tubular gold hoops.
This next top is similar in style, but definitely more of a splurge. I debated on it at first, unsure if I’d get a good cost per wear—but I’ve already reached for it twice in the past week. Turns out, it’s surprisingly versatile. It pairs easily with blue jeans, white denim, and cool neutral tones like beige, taupe, and brown.
RAILS Arlene (S) // MOTHER The Hustler Roller Sneak (similar in stock) (29) (similar for less) // PAIGE Jill (8) (similar for less) // Jenny Bird Ola Bangle // Anna Beck necklace // similar hoops // NAGHEDI Nomad Hobo in Cashmere
I love the smocked shoulders and the subtle ruffle details—they add just enough feminine flair without feeling overly sweet. It’s one of those pieces that looks elevated but still feels effortless—just as easy to throw on with jeans as a tee, but with a little extra style.
Speaking of jeans, these are the MOTHER The Hustler Roller Sneak Patch Pocket Wide Leg Jeans. I haven’t had them long, but they’re already low in stock almost everywhere. I love the stretchy denim, the light blue wash, and the wide-leg silhouette—it’s relaxed without feeling overly voluminous.
I wore a flatform espadrille wedge sandal with leather straps in a rich mahogany color. Even though I’m not wearing brown anywhere else in the outfit, the sandals work as a subtle bookend to my dark hair. And I carried a woven shoulder bag in taupe, which ties in nicely with the jute-wrapped platform of the sandals.
This top has a soft, flax-colored undertone that pairs beautifully with my EVEREVE Camp Jacket in Sand, so I threw that on top, and I gave the top a front tuck and added a belt to complete the look.
Then there are the cropped button-up tops that are everywhere right now. I’ve shared this Aiden Cropped Shirting in the blue-and-white pinstripe a few times already this season, but it’s another great example of an easy top you can swap in for your basic tees to instantly level up your denim looks for spring.
Bonus points for tossing a sweater over your shoulders for a modern, preppy flair. I get a lot of requests for a “tutorial” on this, so I posted an Instagram Reel demonstrating how I do it.
Aiden Cropped Shirting (S) // Splendid Dre (S) // MOTHER Hustler (30) // Veronica Beard Via (8)
One more top I wanted to feature is a little more like a tee, since it’s made from a soft knit fabric—but the relaxed cowl neck, cap sleeves, and subtle curved hemline give it a more refined feel. It’s just as comfortable as your favorite basic tee, but the drape is amazing and the details make it feel a bit more polished.
EVEREVE Gia Cowl Neck Top (S) // MOTHER The Tomcat in Cream Puffs (29) // Schutz Arissa Woven Flats (8) // similar belt // LV Neverfull (similar for less) // Jenny Bird hoops // FREJA Caroline
I have it in a pretty shade of light blue (they call it grey, but I’d say it leans more periwinkle). I paired it with ecru jeans and brown accessories, and added a navy blue fleece peacoat as an optional topper. This color combination feels soft and springy, and the top strikes that perfect balance of comfort and style.
Finally, I wanted to include this sweater tee—it’s a fun twist on a basic with its soft ivory knit and fresh green stripe. The short sleeves and lightweight fabric make it perfect for spring, and it pairs so well with jeans, shorts, or even casual trousers. It’s an easy way to add some color and texture without going full-on sweater mode.
Evereve Jane pullover (S) // MOTHER Dazzler Flood (29) // Vionic Klara (8.5) // similar silver hoops
I also like how it looks topped off with a classic trench, it really elevates the look.
Evereve Jane pullover (S) // Talbots Poplin trench (S) // MOTHER Dazzler Flood (29) // similar silver hoops // VEJA Esplar (39)
If you’re finding yourself skipping the t-shirt more often this spring, you’re not alone. With so many easy, wearable tops out there right now, it’s a fun way to freshen up your denim outfits without sacrificing comfort. I’m still a tee girl at heart, but I’ve been loving the variety these options bring to my wardrobe—and I hope this gave you a few new ideas to try too!
Shop More Alternatives to Tees for Spring:
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20 Responses
I’m trying to add more “blouses” to my wardrobe too – I’m usually a ribbed tank and kimono/cardigan girl but I did pick up the blue/white version of your red striped top (maybe not same brand but def same look) and can’t wait to wear with some cute blue linen pants I grabbed too. I don’t think the first top looks boxy on you at all esp since it is more of a cropped style.
Great post! Love all of the blouses/tops! You look amazing in all of them! Thank you! Safe travels
Great styles and suggestions. I have the Evereve green stripe sweater top. It’s a beautiful piece. I sized down as my normal size small was baggy and the armholes are a little large. I like it with white crop denim for a monochrome look as well as denim.
Great post! I found myself reaching for something different than a t-shirt as well this spring. I love the green striped sweater-I just ordered it yesterday from another of your posts with that sweater. It finally caught me! LOL
I need to start wearing my shirts and blouses even though I don’t have many. I’ve been wearing my tshirts. Thanks for the tips.
I too am trying to grab other shirts to wear as I feel more put together but still comfortable. Heading soon to coffee with a friend and thinking which top to wear. I love the blue striped Everece one. I have the long sleeve linen one in same stripe color from there, last year. Love it. So fresh and light. Happy travels home. You’ve had a long drive but good to break it up. Can’t believe it’s already Summer break for Becca. The year went fast and I knew before you knew it she would be back home with you. I miss those days of kids coming home on breaks. BUT…… I’m enjoying the grandkid stage now!!!!! So fun.
I love you in the wide leg Hustler jeans + Rails top outfit. I’m finding I reach for a pair of wide leg denim more than my other styles these days. Question about a pair of shoes above: are the Schutz Arissa flats comfortable? I’m looking for a new tan or nude flat that would work with white or denim jeans.
I find them very comfortable but they don’t have any support.
Thanks! I see they’re on sale currently, so I might try them out and wear around the house first. 😊
Worth a try! They are very cute.
Your Rails top is extra cute and so is your sweater with the green stripe! My question is this. I ordered the Paradise tanning butter that you recommended from QVC. Do you use this. My neck and chest broke out in a huge blistery rash. My legs did not, but they are an ugly orange after on3 application. Do you have a better recommendation?
Oh no!!!! I’m so sorry to hear that. It definitely does not agree with you.
I also like Dolce Glo spray and tanning drops but it’s not quite as fool-proof. You have to be a little more careful with application. https://shopstyle.it/l/cpLIx
I also like the tarte Key Largo Glow Body Oil – and it shoes color immediately. Use the brush with it. https://shopstyle.it/l/cpLIE
Barb, sorry I’m late to the game but another great option is the Jergens Natural Glow Instant Sun in Deep Bronze. This stuff will give you an amazing, right off the beach tan. The secret is to use a plastic glove (like the kind your dentist wears) and in a size that really fits your hand. I find the glove to work way better than a mit for even coverage and no stains on your hand. A little goes a long way so start small and build up til you figure out the best amount for you. Dries quickly too. Wish I knew how to link the product so Jo-Lynne could get credit for it!
Thanks, Kelly! Here’s a link.
Some very cute ideas! I especially like the first two tops- wish they had plus sizes. I never wear regular T-shirts out except to yoga or other exercise- to my eye I look hopelessly frumpy in them. I did order a few cap-sleeve tees from Old Navy that look similar to some you’ve worn. I’ll try them with the sweater over the shoulders, which is something I have never done because as a GenXer I was very much not prep. Can’t believe I bought boat shoes and now I’m trying that!
Just love the first two tops, you look great in them, and I totally agree with the slightly more upscale look. Perfect for the summer.
On another note I wanted to share for anyone who lives in So. Cal. Rails has an outlet store at Cabazon. It’s amazing, all current products you can still buy full price online, but it’s all 30-50% off. Not sure how they do it, but I did end up spending way too much there :).
I’m glad that y’all had an enjoyable evening with your family. I hope that the drive today has been very smooth and easy. I appreciate you sharing some more affordable options with us, since the Evereve prices are not within my budget.
I too would love to move beyond grabbing a tee but the issue I have is that so many of the other types seem to need ironing to look good. Can you say if there are any in this post that come out of the wash not needing ironing?
Love this post! Do you need to wear something under the blue stripe shirt?
I don’t.