Trends/ Street Style/ Under $100/ Designer/ Wardrobe Tips/ Fashion / 18 Feb, 2020
How To Dress Up Wardrobe Basics
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Although investing in solid basics is key to building a seasonless wardrobe, they can also start to feel boring after a while. It’s usually right around this time that I start wanting to buy all the latest drops. However, I know from experience that it’s the trendiest pieces that I get the least wear from, so I’ll retrain myself. To avoid that “closet full of clothes but nothing to wear” syndrome, I’m constantly reworking the basics I already own into new looks. Here are the tricks I’ve been using lately to make basics feel smart and sophisticated.
Topshop Shearling Coat (wearing a US 2, similar here) | Topshop Cream Top (wearing a US 2) | Topshop Black Denim (wearing a 25 – size up) | Gucci Belt (wearing a size 70 – read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Prada Cahier Bag | Celine Sunglasses (exact sold out, similar here)
1. Pair with a statement piece
A statement coat is hands down my favorite way to transform an outfit. It’s the exact reason why I’m so addicted to buying coats! I throw mine on over the most basic pieces from tees to sweaters and bodysuits, but will layer it over dresses for a night out too. I love details like gold buttons, plush textures, duster lengths, and animal prints.
Revolve L’Academie Gray Sweater (wearing an XS) | Mango Gray Coat | Topshop Black Denim (wearing a 25) | Revolve Raye Booties (similar here and here) | Gucci Marmont Bag (similar here) | Saint Laurent Sunglasses
2. Mix in tailored pieces
Nothing beats a great fit when it comes to fashion. It’s oftentimes the most simple outfits that end up looking the best, and part of that reason is because the tailoring is on point! Mixing basics like a basic tee with a tailored coat or trousers can change the entire vibe of your look.
Kate Spade Leather Jacket (similar here, better for budget here) | Equipment Shirt (wearing an XS, better for budget here) | Anine Bing Lace Bralette | Blank Denim Faux Leather Pants (under $100 – run TTS) | Chanel Bag | Celine Edge Sunglasses (similar here, better for budget here) | Christian Louboutin White Heels (similar here, better for budget here)
3. Add edgy accessories
Since my style is edgy and modern most of the time, I tend to shop for accessories that fit that aesthetic. For instance, dark sunglasses, a leather bag with metallic hardware, or the perfect pair of boots. It’s the edgy accessories that really elevate basics – like a plain button-down top.
Topshop Blazer (wearing a US 2) | Topshop Bodysuit | Blank Denim Faux Leather Pants (run TTS) | Black Booties | Saint Laurent Bag | Gucci Belt (read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Similar Sunglasses
4. Cinch it at the waist
Most of us overlook belts especially if an outfit naturally fits. However, adding just one designer belt into the mix can make a huge difference in making your outfit feel more put together. It not only highlights your waist in the most flattering way, but adds texture and structure to the simplest silhouettes.
Lovers + Friends White Trench (sold out, similar here) | Monrow Black Tee (wearing an XS) | Asos Black Denim (run TTS) | Janessa Leone Fedora (similar here) | Chloe Faye Bag | Schutz Heels
5. Top it off with head gear
Sometimes, all you need is the right hat to make wardrobe basics feel new. I usually rotate between beanies and baseball caps in the winter, but a fedora is perfect for adding some extra polish. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a ton to get your hands on a cute hat!
Mango White Coat (wearing an S) | Frame Brown Coated Denim (wearing a 23) | Christian Louboutin White Heels (better for budget here and here) | Tom Ford Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Louis Vuitton Multi Pochette Accessories (available here) | Louis Vuitton Shawl (preowned here)
6. Dress in tonal colors
Neutral tones are a classic, no-fail color that looks great on everyone. When I’m feeling jaded with all the basics in my wardrobe, I usually turn to monochrome layers to keep it fresh. The result is super luxe and slimming, which is always a bonus. If you pay any attention to the top street style stars during fashion week, you’ll notice that most of them abide by this rule! Check out the neutral color combos I swear by in this post.
Free People White Tunic Sweater (wearing an XS, similar here) | Blank Denim Faux Leather Pants (wearing a 24 – runs TTS) | Givenchy Antigona Bag (medium size, smooth version) | Christian Louboutin So Kate Heels (better for budget here) | Saint Laurent Sunglasses
7. Mix high end with high street
I don’t think there’s anything chicer and more on trend, than mixing high-end pieces with more affordable ones. It’s usually the designer pieces that really anchor an outfit. I believe investing in quality accessories play an essential role in transforming even the most basic pieces, which is why I’m such a proponent of designer bags and heels!
xo, Maria