For casual layers with understated coolness, you'll want to shop at American Eagle. The retailer makes clothes that are laidback and extremely wearable, which is why we've made it our go-to when we need to restock on our closet essentials. From flower-printed mini dresses to vintage t-shirts, our eyes are currently set on pieces that won't break the bank, yet will make for a super cute closet.
Scroll on for our 21 picks under $50, and get ready to bring new energy and more personality to your summer closet.
From the puff sleeves to the summery print, this AE Ruched Flutter-Sleeve Mini Dress ($45) is as good-looking as it is playful. It exudes femininity and confidence, so we're sold.
This AE Waffle Scoop Neck Bodycon Mini Dress ($40) is a printed twist on an otherwise basic everyday dress. We love the relaxed fit and modern look.
Have a picnic coming up? This AE Ruffle Mini Dress ($45) is the answer. Style it with sneakers for a laidback look, or with low-heeled sandals for a slightly dressier touch; it'll look playful and summery either way.
For a dress that's lightweight and easy to move in, the AE Puff-Sleeve Babydoll Mini Dress ($37, originally $50) is your answer. Complete the look with a herringbone necklace and some barely there sandals.
Have any travel plans on the calendar? Buy this AE Printed Tube Jumpsuit ($36, originally $50) for your next getaway. Just picture it with a straw hat and some cute slides.
This AE Slit Mini Skirt ($40) is made even cooler with the slit and eye-catching print. Pair it with the matching crop top, or literally any tee in your closet.
American Eagle is known to make denim jeans, shorts, and skirts that are high-quality, durable, and cool. And this AE Ne(x)t Level High-Waisted Denim Mini Skirt ($45) is no exception.
We love the shape of this AE Denim Mom Skort ($45, originally $60), which makes it a step above the rest. Pair it with a floral blouse and some sneakers for a casual and cute outfit.
We love tie-dye anything, and this AE Oversized Soft & Sexy Tie-Dye V-Neck T-Shirt ($19, originally $25) is speaking our language. It's eye-catching, comfy-looking, and all-around cool.
We love the cropped silhouette and charming print of this AE Printed Baby Tee ($19, originally $25). Wear it with denim shorts on your way to a concert at the park.
Whether you wear it with lounge pants, denim cutoffs, or a mini skirt, this AE Polo Baby Tee ($25) will look effortlessly cool.
Calling all Rolling Stones fans! This Tailgate Women's Rolling Stones Oversized Graphic T-Shirt ($30) is a must-have. Get it for vintage vibes and a relaxed fit.
We love the square-neck and formfitting style of this AE Wide-Strap Crop Cami ($15, originally $20). Dress it down with jeans and sneakers, or up with a slip skirt and some mules.
We're craving a beach day when this AE Cropped Resort Button-Up Shirt ($35) will serve as our cover-up. How cool does it look? Get it for you and your bestie so you can twin.
The Peter Pan collar makes this AE Peter Pan Button-Up Blouse ($40) nostalgic and feminine. It's perfect for all your sunny day plans.
This AE Smocked Puff-Sleeve Blouse ($45) will earn you tons of compliments, whether you style it for the next brunch, solo museum date, or alfresco dinner.
Make this extremely wearable AE Floral Smocked Sweetheart Neck Top ($20, originally $40) by styling it however you want. It'll quickly become BFFs with all your bottoms.
This AE Flutter-Sleeve Ruched Top ($35) is made from soft and breathable mesh, which gives it a sultry and feminine look. We love the flutter sleeves and plunging neckline.
Meet your new summer shorts: the AE Highest Waist Denim Mom Shorts ($37, originally $50). The denim wash gives it a retro look, while the high rise gives it a modern edge.
You won't want to be bothered when you're lounging in these AE Floral Ruffle Runner Shorts ($40) on your days off. We can't think of more comfortable bottoms to kick back and relax in.
This AE Crossover Highest Waist Denim Mom Shorts ($45, originally $60) has a drapey, vintage look that we find hard to resit. It's made of a classic cotton denim with no stretch, so you can be sure the fit will be secure.