7 Casual Outfit Formulas That Just Always Work

by Anna LaPlaca

Is it just me, or is picking out a casual outfit usually even more challenging than putting together a dressier look? If I'm leaving the house in a plain tee and denim, I could easily try on 10 different pairs of jeans just to land on the right look that's casual and laid-back but still says I'm a fashion girl without saying I'm a fashion girl, you know?

Since I find myself mulling over these casual looks more than I probably should, I figured it would be useful to create a fail-safe guide to casual wear for those moments when you want to be easygoing but still look cool. To me, the seven outfit formulas below do just that. Whether they feature the simplest basics in our closets or riff on a few trendier elements, putting together one of these ensembles is a can't-lose scenario.

Neutral Blazer + White Tee + Jeans

Photo:

@lefevrediary

A structured blazer, especially one in a neutral tone, works wonders to make a simple denim outfit look polished.

Denim Jacket + Jeans

Photo:

@matildadjerf

Double denim, or the Canadian tux—whatever you want to call it—is a never-fail formula. I'd take a cue from Matilda and pair a denim jacket with jeans in the same wash.

Floral Dress + Sneakers

Photo:

@himichelleli

A pretty dress with athletic sneakers is a calling card for fashion girls everywhere, and it's actually so easy to re-create. Style a fun frock (bonus points if it involves elements like ruffles or puff sleeves) with your favorite kicks and add in whatever accessories suit your mood.