The 90s Basic It Girls Are Trading Their Baby Tees For

Mark our words, this flirty three-quarter sleeve style is about to be everywhere.

Writer

23 January 2026

Basics are the backbone of any good wardrobe, and with the rise of 90s minimalism and capsule wardrobe dressing, finding the perfect top to wear with our jeans, slip skirts and slacks has never felt more important. For a while now, the 90s baby tee has reigned supreme (this Uniqlo number in particular has basically held my wardrobe together), but in 2026, we’re seeing a subtle switch — with it girls all over reaching for tops with a little extra length in the sleeve. Taking original inspiration from the 60s, the trending top still sits in that late 90s to early 2000s sweet spot, just with a more flirty and feminine vibe. Think: Carrie Bradshaw and Rachel Green. It’s a little sporty, but mostly chic.

Two styles are emerging as front-runners for 2026: a boatneck style ballerina tee a la Hailey Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter’s go-to Cou Cou Intimates top, and a deep v-neck variety like Mode Mischief’s viral Velina Top. Both are incredibly flattering and feature a three-quarter sleeve that hits between elbow and wrist — perfect for in-between weather, air-conditioned offices and nights out. So, while it feels ridiculous to shop anything other than bikinis and tank tops right now, trust me — this is the exact top you’ll be reaching for in a month’s time!

Now, unfortunately for us in Aus, the Cou Cou Intimates top — with its bell sleeves, dipped front, and gorg picot trim — does come with the international conversion price tag. If you refuse to compromise (and manage to find it in stock), it’s well worth the investment. Otherwise, definitely try stock up next time you head to Europe.

They’re not the only ones doing great three-quarter sleeves, though. St Agni’s Soft Jersey Ballerina Top has a very similar feel and will last for seasons to come. Mode Mischief and With Jéan do super flattering v-neck varieties in spectacular shades. Pinky & Kamal have dropped a lush wrap style that is really hitting that ballerina vibe (it’s currently sitting in my cart on The Iconic). Or for something affordable, Princess Polly and Universal Store have some pretty perfect spins on the trending top.

I’ve tried to prioritise options with solid size ranges still available, but some picks are so popular there are only a couple sizes left at time of publishing. I suggest signing up to waitlist now for any sell-out styles you love.

Shop The Edit: Three-Quarter Sleeve Tops

Enjoyed this edit of the trending three-quarter sleeve top? Check out these chic and surprisingly affordable leather handbags and our go-to sunglasses for the season.

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Writer

Claire Logan

23 January 2026

Hailing from Perth (the most isolated city in the world), Claire has built a media career around connecting people with the places, experiences and products they'll love. Whether putting locals onto the hottest new wine bar, helping travellers uncover the city's hidden gems, or gushing about the coolest sneakers, she's never short of a good recommendation. Away from the laptop, she's likely feeding her oyster addiction somewhere by the sea, with a good dirty martini in hand.

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