Some people might think the secret to casual outfit success lies in having the right clothes, but it doesn’t end there. The key to making an off-the-rack outfit look put together is putting together outfits that are already put together (no offense to off-the-rack companies). Find out how to create looks that never fail with these 10 casual outfit formulas that just always work.
Formula #1 - The Jogger Pants and Tee
The best part about jogger pants is that they are super comfortable and can be worn in almost any setting. You will feel great when wearing them anywhere, whether it’s lounging around at home or going out for a nice night with friends. It also provides versatility because you can wear different colored tees underneath to match your personality on any given day. It’s an ideal outfit formula to put together if you want to look stylish but still feel like yourself.
Formula #2 - The Sports Look
If you are going to a sporting event, it's easy to dress casually while showing your team spirit. Wear a long-sleeved t-shirt or lightweight shirt that is team colored with a pair of khaki pants and athletic shoes. Choose socks and pants in neutral colors, such as white or grey, so they don't distract from your shirt. You can add accessories to sports look but keep them minimal for a more laid back look. For example wear sunglasses but not an oversize baseball cap.
Formula #3 - The Hoodie
Throw on a hoodie and you’re good to go. These days, they aren’t just for staying warm; they’re fashionable and versatile. If you don’t already own one, get a black crew-neck one. It goes with everything, is very comfortable to wear, and won’t break the bank. When choosing your size, be sure to pick one that fits snugly but not too tightly—you want it to be able to move comfortably with your body as you walk or sit down. A nice bonus of wearing a hoodie: it makes you look bigger than you actually are (if that’s what you’re going for). They also make great gifts!
Formula #4 - The Varsity Jacket
A good varsity jacket—whether it’s leather or suede—can instantly give your outfit a boost. Throw one on over a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, and you’ve got yourself an instantly elevated look. This is also one of those items that looks great with nearly any color scheme: blue denim, gray chinos, brown khakis—you name it. The key here is to make sure you don’t go overboard with patterns; simple stripes and checks work best. And if there are logos, they should be subtle (think thin stripes instead of large patches). The last thing you want to do is look like a walking billboard for some brand. Varsity jackets can be found at just about every price point imaginable, so there should be something out there for everyone!
Formula #5 - The Denim Look
The epitome of casual, denim is a style staple. If you want to achieve a laidback look that screams effortless cool, throw on your favorite pair of distressed jeans with your favorite tee and some good sneakers. You could also switch out your jeans for overalls if you’re feeling especially trendy! A light jacket or sweater can be added in case it gets chilly later in the day. Be sure to wear clothes that fit well—nothing makes an outfit seem more thrown together than ill-fitting clothing.
Formula #6 - The Skinny Jeans Look
Skinny jeans are one of those staple items that everyone should have in their closet. They go with almost anything, they make your legs look great, and they’re pretty much guaranteed to make you feel sexy (which is always a plus). However, wearing just any old pair of skinnies isn’t going to cut it. To pull off an outfit like that takes some finesse; here are some tips for pulling off a great skinny-jeans outfit 1) If you’re not sure what shoes to wear with skinny jeans, try something on-trend but easygoing like white sneakers or brown boots. 2) A Black top and leather jacket will look great with skinny jeans. 3) Go for a colorful blouse to add a pop of color to your outfit. 4) Try black leggings under denim shorts for a casual look that’s perfect for springtime. 5) Wear wedge sandals with skinny jeans if you want to dress up your casual outfit without looking too overdone.
Formula #7 - The Short Sleeve Button Down
A must have in every closet. A solid colored button down with a pair of jeans and sneakers are a perfect go-to outfit for every occasion, from running errands to a night out with friends. The best part is how easy it is to throw on; no need to accessorize or match patterns! This simple look can be taken up a notch with some jewelry or some cute flats, making it easy for you to dress up or down depending on your mood!
If you don’t have a solid colored button down, no need to panic! There are plenty of other patterns and colors available to make any short sleeve button down pop. From stripes to floral prints to polka dots, there are so many options for every taste. Try layering a tank top underneath or wearing one as an over shirt for extra warmth on chilly days. If you’re trying to stay warm, throw on some leggings under your shorts for added comfort.
Formula #8 - The White Tank Top and Jeans
This is a great summer look because it’s so simple. Throw on a pair of ripped jeans, and you are good to go. White tank tops are perfect for transitioning into fall, especially if they have some type of cute detailing like ruffles or lace. You can also wear it in winter with an oversized sweater or a leather jacket! This is my go-to formula when I need to run errands and I don’t want to put much effort into my outfit.
Formula #9 - The Ripped Jeans (or Trousers)
Sooner or later, every woman is going to get their hands on a pair of ripped jeans. It’s almost unavoidable. Ripped jeans have been around for quite some time now and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. They are comfortable, casual and can be worn with just about anything! What’s even better is that you don’t need an expensive pair to look good in them. If you already own a nice pair of dark blue jeans, all you need to do is find yourself a good quality pair of scissors and start cutting away! Keep in mind that as long as your jeans aren’t see-through when you wear them, it doesn’t matter how many holes there are – nobody will notice anyway.
Formula #10 - Business Attire with a Casual Look
This is just a fancy way of saying that you should dress in business attire, but not look like you’re trying too hard. You don’t want to wear a suit and tie and also don’t want to throw on jeans and sneakers. Balance it out with a clean button-up shirt or polo, some nice slacks or chinos, maybe some loafers, etc., and then add something casual to complete your outfit such as a leather messenger bag or biker jacket. The Blazer: This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you’re looking for an easy way to look more put together without having to think about what you’re wearing, just throw on a blazer! It will give any outfit (casual or formal) an instant upgrade and make you feel more put together than if you were wearing just pants and a t-shirt.