For casual layers with understated coolness, you'll want to shop at American Eagle [1]. 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 [2]. 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 [3].
Feminine and Sweet: AE Ruched Flutter-Sleeve Mini Dress
From the puff sleeves to the summery print, this AE Ruched Flutter-Sleeve Mini Dress [5] ($45) is as good-looking as it is playful. It exudes femininity and confidence, so we're sold.
Cute and Comfy: AE Waffle Scoop Neck Bodycon Mini Dress
This AE Waffle Scoop Neck Bodycon Mini Dress [6] ($40) is a printed twist on an otherwise basic everyday dress. We love the relaxed fit and modern look.
Playful and Summery: AE Ruffle Mini Dress
Have a picnic coming up? This AE Ruffle Mini Dress [7] ($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.
Light and Airy: AE Puff-Sleeve Babydoll Mini Dress
For a dress that's lightweight and easy to move in, the AE Puff-Sleeve Babydoll Mini Dress [8] ($37, originally $50) is your answer. Complete the look with a herringbone necklace and some barely there sandals.
Vacation-Ready: AE Printed Tube Jumpsuit
Have any travel plans on the calendar? Buy this AE Printed Tube Jumpsuit [9] ($36, originally $50) for your next getaway. Just picture it with a straw hat and some cute slides.
Cute and Trendy: AE Slit Mini Skirt
This AE Slit Mini Skirt [10] ($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.
Timeless Staple: AE Ne(x)t Level High-Waisted Denim Mini Skirt
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 [11] ($45) is no exception.
Unexpectedly Cool: AE Denim Mom Skort
We love the shape of this AE Denim Mom Skort [12] ($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.
Soft and Comfy: AE Oversized Soft & Sexy Tie-Dye V-Neck T-Shirt
We love tie-dye anything, and this AE Oversized Soft & Sexy Tie-Dye V-Neck T-Shirt [13] ($19, originally $25) is speaking our language. It's eye-catching, comfy-looking, and all-around cool.
Charming and Summery: AE Printed Baby Tee
We love the cropped silhouette and charming print of this AE Printed Baby Tee [14] ($19, originally $25). Wear it with denim shorts on your way to a concert at the park.
Sporty and Cool: AE Polo Baby Tee
Whether you wear it with lounge pants, denim cutoffs, or a mini skirt, this AE Polo Baby Tee [15] ($25) will look effortlessly cool.
Nostalgic and Trendy Tailgate Women's Rolling Stones Oversized Graphic T-Shirt
Calling all Rolling Stones fans! This Tailgate Women's Rolling Stones Oversized Graphic T-Shirt [16] ($30) is a must-have. Get it for vintage vibes and a relaxed fit.
Chic and Sexy: AE Wide-Strap Crop Cami
We love the square-neck and formfitting style of this AE Wide-Strap Crop Cami [17] ($15, originally $20). Dress it down with jeans and sneakers, or up with a slip skirt and some mules.
Casual and Easygoing: AE Cropped Resort Button-Up Shirt
We're craving a beach day when this AE Cropped Resort Button-Up Shirt [18] ($35) will serve as our cover-up. How cool does it look? Get it for you and your bestie so you can twin.
Romantic and Feminine: AE Peter Pan Button-Up Blouse
The Peter Pan collar makes this AE Peter Pan Button-Up Blouse [19] ($40) nostalgic and feminine. It's perfect for all your sunny day plans.
Striking and Elevated: AE Smocked Puff-Sleeve Blouse
This AE Smocked Puff-Sleeve Blouse [20] ($45) will earn you tons of compliments, whether you style it for the next brunch, solo museum date, or alfresco dinner.
Flowery and Playful: AE Floral Smocked Sweetheart Neck Top
Make this extremely wearable AE Floral Smocked Sweetheart Neck Top [21] ($20, originally $40) by styling it however you want. It'll quickly become BFFs with all your bottoms.
Lightweight and Breathable: AE Flutter-Sleeve Ruched Top
This AE Flutter-Sleeve Ruched Top [22] ($35) is made from soft and breathable mesh, which gives it a sultry and feminine look. We love the flutter sleeves and plunging neckline.
Closet Essential: AE Highest Waist Denim Mom Shorts
Meet your new summer shorts: the AE Highest Waist Denim Mom Shorts [23] ($37, originally $50). The denim wash gives it a retro look, while the high rise gives it a modern edge.
Lazy Day Uniform: AE Floral Ruffle Runner Shorts
You won't want to be bothered when you're lounging in these AE Floral Ruffle Runner Shorts [24] ($40) on your days off. We can't think of more comfortable bottoms to kick back and relax in.
Your Vintage Denim Match: AE Crossover Highest Waist Denim Mom Shorts
This AE Crossover Highest Waist Denim Mom Shorts [25] ($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.