Clever style hack! Left: Blazer | Fidelity Cher jeans | Stuart Weitzman pumps | Tank | YSL bag | Right: J.Crew trench | Frame Le Flare jeans | Gucci bag
The clever style hack no one tells you about!
Recently I wore a simple outfit, similar to the above photos, and for some reason I felt a little extra … pretty. The pieces weren’t anything fancy: a trench coat I’ve had for a couple years, favorite jeans, and a classic crossbody bag. I know, the sparkly sandals and leopard pumps took it up a notch 😉 But, I did have a lightbulb moment: the simplest pieces make the best outfits! This is a clever style hack no one tells you about. What’s the result of using simple pieces? An easy, elegant outfit that always works! And don’t forget, the key to good basics is to make sure the accessories (like shoes, a bag or a scarf) are a little extra special.
Today’s post features eight essential pieces you can use to create simple but stylish outfits. Think easy, uncomplicated and unfussy. Since we’re at the beginning of a new season, and your weather might not be cooperating, these basics are perfect as we transition into spring. Remember, it’s the classics that end up making the best outfits, as long as they’re modern and updated. See my favorite street style below as the perfect example!
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Fave street style inspo
Lisa Aiken – Fashion & Beauty Director at Vogue
#1 – Leather blazer
Look for a slightly oversized fit that allows extra room for layering. This year ’round piece is modern, versatile, and adds a little edge to all your outfits. There are many stylish options, including this one that’s under $100. A leather blazer always looks cool. If you’ve never owned one before, now’s the time to try it!
Left: Blazer | Ecru denim | Prada slingbacks | YSL tote | Right: Blazer | Blouse | Denim | Handbag | Scarf | Slingback
Best options
Check out this faux leather style, this real leather one, and this neutral cream colored one. Love them all!
#2 – Poplin shirt
Today, while perusing the internet, I spotted this simple, slightly oversized white cotton shirt. I was quickly reminded that sometimes the simplest piece is the one you end up reaching for time and time again. Wear it over or under, you can’t go wrong!
Left: Cardigan sweater | Shirt | Scarf | Jeans | Sandals | Right: Shirt | Sweater | Jeans | Loewe tote | Sandals | Bracelet
Best options
Love this Madewell one, this best-selling Kayla shirt, and this Frank & Eileen in superfine cotton. All wearable and cool!
#3 – Trench coat
Classic trench coats never never go out of favor, but here’s the style hack: mix it up a bit. For example, I’ve been loving this well-priced trench by Orolay. It’s just oversized enough to wear over warmer sweaters and hoodies for extra warmth — perfect for a casual event. Or, wear it with a t-shirt, flare jeans and heels, like below, for an elevated look.
Left: Trench coat | Sandals, similar | Right: Trench coat | White shirt | Sweater | Sneaker | YSL bag | Scarf
Best options
Burberry is always a good option, but for more affordable ones, look at this, this and this
#4 – Slip dress
A slip dress is one of the most versatile dresses you can own. If you’ve followed me for a while, you know how much I love the Vince satin one. The fabric is a little weighty (so it doesn’t show every lump and bump), and since it’s cut on the bias, it’s very flattering. You’ll wear it any time of year, and the jacket options are endless!
Left: Veronica Beard blazer | Vince slip dress | Right: Blazer | Slip dress | Sandal | Bag | Earrings
Best options
Hands down, the Vince slip dress is the best, available here and here. I also love L’Agence dresses, here and here
#5 – Soft suiting | Blazers
A slightly oversized blazer looks so cool, and if you find a matching trouser — even better! The idea is to not look like you’re going to work, but instead more relaxed. Style hack: pair with a sneaker, and maybe even a sweater thrown over your shoulders for a laid-back look.
Left: Lisa Aiken | Right: Blazer & matching pant | Jeans | Scarf | Sneaker | Bag | T-shirt
Best options
Look at this J.Crew jacket and pant, this Nordstrom jacket and pant, and this Cinq a Sept jacket and pant
#6 – Straight leg jean
This is the number one jean everyone should own. It’s an update from our beloved skinnies, and the difference is negligible. Instead of skin tight at the ankle, there’s just a little bit more room, and it updates your entire wardrobe!
Left: Striped sweater | Mother Dazzler | Right: Mango coat | Striped sweater | Denim | Toteme boot | Tote | Scarf
Best options
Mother Dazzler, Frame Le High Straight, and Paige Cindy — all best sellers
#7 – Cool crossbody bag
Affordable
Splurge
#8 – Classic tee
Thank you for reading! xx
