We’ve all had those mornings where we stand in front of a full closet and still feel like we have nothing to wear. It might be to wear for a meal you plan to end up in a food coma over, or for a casual browse through the hottest flea market in town; the situation has to be considered, and we usually default to what we always wear.
Welcome to my basic styling series, where we take one part of an outfit and elevate the outfit by a notch for various occasions, always keeping the base as basic and comfy as possible!
So what about my default solution on days like that? A zero-stress, 2-minute outfit formula that looks completely put-together without feeling like you tried too hard.
So what about my default solution on days like that? A zero-stress, 2-minute outfit formula that looks completely put-together without feeling like you tried too hard.
The formula is simple: A textured/patterned top (a trendy one, if you have) + structured dark denim + relaxed, walking-friendly footwear.
Here is a breakdown of why this combo works every single time, plus a few tricks on styling it for low-key cafe dates and weekend strolls.
Let the Top Do the Heavy Lifting
When you’re working with a delicate pattern, like a soft cream short-sleeve button-down with subtle floral accents, like I am wearing here, you don’t need much else. The pattern and texture add instant visual interest, meaning your accessories and makeup can stay completely minimal. I have opted for a layered top, which is also leaning towards a Chinese button top or Chinese mandarin collar top trend, so two ways to add interest to the top, yet keeping everything casual and comfortable.
Style Tip: Keep the top half feeling light and airy by leaving a couple of buttons undone at the neckline, or tucking just the front into your trousers to define your waist.
Style Tip: Opt for light layering of tops; Win-win if they are already layered tops (the millennials reading would know how much we love them), then nothing like it!
Balance Soft Patterns with Dark, Structured Pants
Pairing light, vintage-inspired florals with dark trousers or deep indigo denim creates the ultimate style contrast. The dark bottoms ground the feminine sweetness of the cream top, giving the overall look a cool, Downtown-chic edge.
I have worn the same top with black velvet trousers and indigo wide-leg denim on two occasions while eating out. Both are comfortable and ground the outfit, yet keep it chic.
I have worn the same top with black velvet trousers and indigo wide-leg denim on two occasions while eating out. Both are comfortable and ground the outfit, yet keep it chic.
Style Tip: Wide-leg or straight-leg cuts work best here. They keep the silhouette effortless and comfortable enough for sitting at diner booths or sipping coffee for hours. Remember! Comfort first always for all-day fits!
Tie It into Your Environment
Part of what makes an outfit feel "aesthetic" on camera is how it interacts with your surroundings. The warm cream tones of the shirt pop effortlessly against bold backgrounds, whether that’s a red leather diner booth or a checkered tile floor. I knew what the place I was visiting looked like, so I did a bit of planning with the Asian-inspired top and the black-and-cream combo of the outfit.
Style Tip: Always do a bit of research on where you are visiting and what your outfit looks like against the place. It is very easy with a quick Google search these days, so spend that extra minute!
Style with Your Accessories
Lean into the colours of your top, or play around with the patterns to wear accessories that match or complement the outfit. Do not go overboard on this; keep this casual and light if you're not making accessories the star.
Style tip: Mix metals and various textures of accessories. I am wearing crochet and a gold-and-silver sleek watch and earrings, which helps bring a fun side to the outfit.
I hope you employ these tips in your basic outfits to make them as fun and comfortable as possible!