I honestly believe that the true test of style is how you handle yourself and your outfits when you get crazy busy. Although looking chic among the chaos of everyday sounds impossible, there are some easy tricks you can apply to always look your best. Not everybody has time to plan the perfect outfit in advance, so having a few set outfit formulas and key pieces are crucial. And it doesn’t have to be that difficult either. You can easily take your style from bland to chic with a standard capsule wardrobe of pieces that will always go together. Below are my tips for how to look chic, even when you don’t have a ton of time!

Outfit Details: Balmain Blazer (wearing an FR34, better for budget here) | Similar Black Cutout Turtleneck (also here) | Blank Denim Faux Leather Pants (wearing a 24 – runs TTS) | New Era NY Hat | Quay Sunglasses | Prada Cahier Bag

Stick with the basics

The key to always looking chic is investing in basics that are timeless and versatile. If your wardrobe is comprised entirely of statement pieces, it’ll be harder to mix and match them when you need to put an outfit together quickly. Some of my go-to basics are a good pair of jeans that can be dressed up or down, a blazer in a dark, neutral color, and classic pumps. All of these simple pieces provide so many different combinations!

Outfit Details: White Gucci Belt (wearing a 75 – read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Gucci Logo Tee (wearing an XXS) | Gucci Marmont White Bag (mini size shown) | Balmain Blazer (wearing an FR34) | Christian Louboutin Red Heels (size down 1/2 size)

Accessorize right

Another easy way to expand the limits of your go-to outfits is to add on accessories. I often rely on a structured designer handbag or chic heels to pull my look together. However, jewelry can also be a game changer. Even if you only have time to throw on a pair of jeans and a plain t-shirt, you could take the outfit up a notch with layered necklaces or statement earrings.

Outfit Details: Burberry ‘Sandringham’ Trench Coat (wearing a US 0, better for budget here) | Balmain Top (wearing an FR34) | Blank Denim Faux Leather Pants (wearing a 24 – runs TTS) | Chanel Bag | Christian Louboutin So Kate Heels | Givenchy Sunglasses

Keep your colors simple

I’m often buying most of my clothes in neutral colors because your outfit options practically become endless. Even if you’re mixing textures, patterns, or prints, neutral tones will always tie everything together. I’m always reaching for tonal pieces as well, so keeping my wardrobe stocked with neutrals makes it super convenient.

Outfit Details: Revolve High-Waist Pants (wearing an XXS) | Kate Spade Leather Jacket (similar here, better for budget here) | Re/Done Black Tank (wearing an XS) | Christian Louboutin Heels | Gucci Dionysus Bag (mini size) | Saint Laurent Sunglasses

Tuck it in

Tucking your tops into bottoms always adds a tailored touch whether you’re wearing a button down blouse or a graphic tee. It’s an easy style trick that instantly looks tailored yet feminine. I swear by high-waisted bottoms to fully tuck in my tops because they add length – and feel so effortless. With skinny jeans, I’ll usually do a half tuck in the front, especially if I want a more casual vibe.

Outfit Details: Similar Shirt Dress | Saint Laurent Sunset Bag | Stuart Weitzman Heels | Aviator Sunglasses

Go for a one-piece or a matching set

When I’m completely pressed for time, my easiest solution is to just grab pieces that I can throw on and go. This usually comes in the form of dresses, rompers, jumpsuits, and matching sets. Given the current spring season, there are plenty of great selections you can buy now. These pieces require little accessorizing and almost no effort to look the part. You can shop the pieces on my wishlist below.

Keep your closet organized

Having a chaotic closet makes it so much harder to get ready in the morning. I recently shared my closet organization tips (full post here). When you apply these tips, I promise, it will make navigating any wardrobe significantly easier.

xo, Maria

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