[I used to show you how to pull off runway trends in the series "Rock the Look." In this new series, I'll be taking a different item you probably already have in your closet each week and showing you three new ways to wear it. After all, the best shopping tip anyone will give you is to only buy pieces that work with something you already own. Last week we played around with those shorts you have in your closet and this week we're going to put that white tank to work.]

Everyone has a basic white tank, like this classic Theory top, in their wardrobe. Maybe you wear it under a sweater, or with sweats on a lazy day. However, that basic white tank is not reaching its full fashion potential. Such a versatile piece can be worn in so many different ways, it’s like having ten outfits in one!

Here are three new ways to rock that tank top:

1. Tuck it into jeans and add a cute belt and necklace. This look is very classic and effortlessly chic.

American Eagle Skinny Crop 77 Jeans $39.50
Charlotte Russe Stone & Shell Charm Necklace $9.99
Charlotte Russe Ladder Braided Belt $8.99
Roxy Peony Sandals $34

2. Pair a basic white tank with a high-waisted skirt for a stylish daytime summer look. Depending on the occasion, dress this style up even more by adding a bib necklace or a stack of bangle bracelets.

Silence & Noise Sublimated Zebra Skirt $38 at Urban Outfitters
Forever 21 Daphne Chain Drape Necklace $6.80
Jessica Simpson Clonise Sandals $79 at Piperlime

3. A white tank is also a great layering top. When the weather’s not too hot, wear it under a blazer. For warmer days, try a chic vest.

Necessary Objects Boyfriend Blazer $64 at Fred Flare
American Eagle Skinny Jeans $49.50
Forever 21 Persia Peep Toe Pumps $29.80

For more fashion tips, follow me on Twitter or read my blog!

In other words, I know American Apparel.

Their stores are chock full of ridiculous things I would never wear, but they also happen to carry some seriously awesome essentials. You may have to pick through the sparkly unitards to find em, but they are most definitely worth the work. Don’t know what to look for? That’s why I am here.

I give you: The Best Things (EVER) at American Apparel.

1. The Vest

I bought the vest last summer and it’s still around. I remember the sales guy and I agreeing that the vest was “smart.” The vest is reversible and goes well with just about everything and is an easy way to spice up a rather boring ensemble. I pair it with a fitted tank, skinny jeans, flats and some bangles. Simple and stylin’ cuz that’s how I roll.

2. The Intimate

When a co-worker rocked a strapless top I asked her how she kept the ladies up so nicely. Everyone knows it’s hard to find a great strapless bra. She told me it was American Apparel! Yup. So I went shopping and bought three. The bandeau top layrs nicely under any kind of shirt and comes in more colors than your bag of Skittles. Just don’t jump/dance too hard or your support will ends up around your waist.

3. The Dress

The Sheer Jersey Bandeau Dress is pretty much amazing. There really is no other way to describe it. This thing can be worn a billion different ways! (They even have a video to teach you all the snazzy things you can do with it.) Really, this dress is like 15 dresses in one, which means anyone can wear it for any occassion. Genius, I tell you. GENIUS!

4. The T-Shirt

In morning you can fight with your boyfriend over who wears this one. The Unisex Tri-Blend Short Sleeve tee is soo comfortable and yet still sexy. The deep v-neck gives intrigue to the eye and the loose fit shows off curves while leaving something to the imagination. You can take this thing from class straight to the club! To say I am obsessed is a major understatement.

5. The Legging

I didn’t want to put the American Apparel leggings on this list, but due to the fact that I am currently wearing them, I realize that they had to make the cut. Leggings can be stylish or functional, so they are a definite closet necessity. And with the awesome three pack, you can stock up for super cheap.

Watch the dollars when you shop at American Apparel, they go quickly! And if you’re shopping online, the sizes tend to run a little small, but I think that’s the point.

Last Saturday in Manhattan, I saw every costume imaginable. Swarms of bees, a duo from the Great Gatsby, a Pharaoh, Cat Woman, Sponge Bob, even a seriously drunk Teletubby. Everyone came out to play.But the best costume of the night went to the super skinny hipster boy standing right near my L train exit on Bedford. He was about as authentic as an Amy Winehouse imposter can be: short shorts, ratty white tank, beehive and thick black eyeliner. He was unmistakable replica. And it probably only cost him the price of a black wig.

If you’re broke or lazy or broke AND lazy (like me!) Halloween is more of an inconvenience than it is a good time. So instead of being Debbie Downer (hey, costume idea!) by not dressing up, here are some cheap ideas that are easy to put together on the fly.

Like say tonight… or tomorrow.

Easy DIY Ideas:

Amy Winehouse

Miss South Carolina

Drunk David Hasselhoff (get drunk…eat a burger…done!)

Oscar de la Hoya in drag

Print out Masks:

Obama, Brit Brit, Putin, Fred Thompson, Ron Paul and Ahmadinejad

Larry Craig

Star Wars

A Pug or a kitten

A slew of masks from Forbes

If I didn’t have to dress up for work, I would totally be a Blythe doll! So adorable!