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This isn’t anything I haven’t said before, but there is so much potential hiding in your wardrobe. Even on the days when you feel like you don’t know what to wear? Yes, especially then! If you have the proper basics, then you know that you have everything you need to create tons of great outfit combinations. If there’s one thing to know about style, it’s that basics make for endless easy outfit combinations. By combining just a few of these versatile items (with a few key accessories), you can create chic outfits for just about every occasion. Like what you may ask? Let’s get into it and see!
8 Outfit Combinations
1. graphic tee + blazer + jeans
Though I paired this look with leopard print sneakers for a casual chic look (running errands, anyone?), you can always switch out the shoes for whatever occasion arises.
For a more special occasion, such as date night, swap them out for a pair of heels. Planning a Sunday brunch with friends? Go with classic flats. This kind of versatility is what makes creating the perfect outfit easy!
shop a similar look: blazer | tee | sunglasses | bag | jeans | sneakers
2. leggings + long cardigan + loose tee
The combo of leggings with a baggy tee or sweatshirt is one of the most popular casual styles. However, this outfit can walk a fine line between being a chic look and a sloppy one. The secret? Don’t pair your leggings with a sweatshirt.
Instead, layer with a loose tee and a long cardigan. Polish up the whole look with a loafer or loafer slides to add just the right amount of dressiness. A touch of gold doesn’t hurt either!
shop a similar look: cardigan | shirt | leggings | bag | loafers
3. swing/t-shirt dress + denim jacket + sneakers
While this look may scream “mom on duty” at first, this is a super simple look that anyone can rock. Whether your weekend plans involve soccer practice runs, grocery shopping, or hanging with your gals, this is a great go-to look.
One great style tip to try is combining a more structured piece with something loose. The denim jacket, while casual, is more tailored to the body and provides a great contrast to the loose t-shirt dress. This makes the overall look way more put together and flattering to the figure. Also, you can’t go wrong with a classic white pair of sneakers!
shop a similar look: denim jacket | dress | bag | watch | sneakers | sunglasses
Related: The Top Designer Bags That Are All Over Paris
4. plain tee + oversized blazer + shorts
A basic/plain white t-shirt with an oversized blazer is a combo that will never steer you wrong. This combination is the definition of casual elegance and will have you looking good without feeling too stuffy.
For the warmer months, try pairing this outfit with some loose-fitting denim shorts, ballet flats, and gold accessories. This is a quick and easy way to get a put-together casual outfit that looks effortless.
shop a similar look: blazer | tee | bag | watch | shorts | shoes
5. basic tee + moto jacket + skinny jeans + combat boots
Everyone needs an easy outfit combination for every mood. This outfit is for those days when you’re feeling a little edgy and like you just want to get things done. Black skinnies and a great leather jacket will always be a great way to add a little rock and roll to your casual wear look.
Plus, this outfit will instantly give you those cool girl “model-off-duty” vibes that are perfect for a killer street-style look.
shop a similar look: jacket | jeans | boots | bag
6. basic tee + jeans + loafers + gold accessories
Looking for an outfit that’s polished, simple, and for all ages? The combination of a plain white tee and pair of jeans is one that’s been around for ages, and this outfit proves that sometimes simplicity is best!
To complete this totally timeless ensemble, add some simple gold jewelry and a pair of loafers.
shop a similar look: necklace | jeans | bag | shoes
Related: 5 Combos That Always Look Like Expensive Outfits
7. black dress + cardigan + flats
Everyone should have a black dress and the best part is that it doesn’t have to be fancy. In fact, you can often get more use out of a more casual one! Pair your little black dress with a cozy, chunky cardigan for a casual feminine look.
This will add an extra texture to the look that will instantly take your outfit up a notch. Throw on a pair of flats in a bold color or pattern and you have yourself a classy, yet casual outfit for many different occasions.
shop a similar look: cardigan | dress | shoes | bag
8. button-down + cardigan + jeans + boots
A button-down white top is a classic and polished piece that no wardrobe is complete without. While this is typically seen as a more formal and dressed-up piece, you’ll get the most wear out of your button-down by pairing it with a great pair of jeans.
With the right jean style (straight or cropped flare), ankle boots with a small heel will shine and add some posh style to your look without coming off as too “overdone”. Complete this look with a stylish third piece, such as a cozy cardigan, for the perfect smart casual look.
shop a similar look: cardigan | shirt | jeans | boots
No matter what your dress code is for the day, these outfit combinations will never steer you wrong. If you’re looking to get the most use out of each of these styles, the best thing is to stick with basic colors.
This will allow you to create plenty of unique looks without having to worry so much about matching colors. This also means less time figuring out what to wear in the morning and more time rocking your chic outfit!
What’s even more important than outfit combinations? Wardrobe principles, as these will guide all the outfits you create from here on out. Keep reading for 10 Principles for a Good Wardrobe That Will Transform Your Closet!
Hi Carolyn! Your posts always pop up in my Pinterest feed, and I always read them, but I’ve never commented! (Kinda realise that makes me a weird stalker. Sorry ‘bout that!)
Two things. #1 I wish I had somewhere to wear actual clothes at the moment. But I’m really ill (thankfully everyone is in lockdown so the past few months I haven’t missed out on much!) and #2 I need to get me some new leopard print shoes! I had a pair of boots I had re-heeled so many times before they gave up the ghost and this post made me miss them, bad. So now I’m on a leopard-print-everything hunt and I have you to thank! Keep smiling & hope you’re all well!
Hi, Hanna! I don’t think you’re a stalker at all haha. Really sorry to hear that you aren’t doing well. It’s no fun to be sick AND not be able to dress up! 😉 Good luck with your leopard print hunt. It’s a print I think everyone needs! Feel better soon.
Victoria
As an athletic and fit 65 year old woman I have absolutely no hesitation wearing shorts for acceptable occasions. Appropriate fit and length is undoubtedly crucial. Personally, I look ridiculous in cropped pant lengths. As such, nicely tailored shorts constructed with complimentary fabrics are a welcome option in the oppressive heat of the south-central region of the United States.
It’s always important to know what looks good on your body and what you feel good in!
This is so helpful! Thanks for sharing your gift! ?
Thank you so much, Kelly!!
Please share where to buy your outfits. So cute!
Even though I’m 66 I’d like and would wear all of them except the shorts with a blazer
Stay safe
Glad you like these ideas! You could easily wear pants with that outfit too. 🙂
Estás combinaciones me encantaron dentro de mi guardarropa cuento con esos básicos y me ha ayudado a como resaltar con un saco o con bolsos te agradezco
So glad you already have these basics and you are able to create these easy outfit combinations out of them!
Great combos!! Love these ideas! Thank you!
So glad you like them, Denita!
I live in a college town in Appalachia. Our shopping choices here are extremely limited. I have been looking for clothes like your page shows for years. Sadly, nowhere to buy them around here. The students are very well dressed but I think they buy in their home states. Would you mind providing links to the brands and styles you are wearing so that we can purchase online? My typical outfit here is insulated pants, wool under layer and a flannel shirt or sweater, with a down jacket, hat and gloves. It’s even hard to find good hiking boots in this town. .we live in Blacksburg, VA. Go figure.
Thanks, Nancy
Go to Roanoke, they have everything. It’s only about 45 mins away mostly interstate.
I don’t have any of these combos. I’m missing one or two items each time ?
What’s great about easy looks like this is that you can substitute what you need to and still look great!
Start with the basics. You MUST have at least one each quality white and black t-shirts which fit you properly no matter what your lifestyle or locale is. A quality tee pairs with/under so many things and they are reasonably priced. Five out of 8 of these outfits use a t-shirt. Shop relentlessly for a pair of jeans that flatter and fit you perfectly. Half of these outfits are anchored by jeans. Half of the outfits show flats and just one black pair will go with everything. All the outfits feature either a medium brown leather or a black leather purse/tote. One each can suffice; keep them unfussy like those shown in the article. Tie a scarf on the handle to add color/pattern to change it up. Now go raid your closet and the consignment store if you must for third layer jackets and sweaters. We know you have some and the few basic jewelry items shown because nothing has to be exactly the same to get “the LOOK.” You got this.
Hi. I enjoy reading your articles but I live in Phoenix where a cardigan isn’t always practical except for a few weeks in winter. Any suggestions for us warm weather girls who like the look of a “finisher” piece but don’t need the warmth? Thank you!!
Yes, I have just the post 🙂 Here’s how to wear classic style in hot climates!
https://www.mychicobsession.com/classic-style-in-hot-climates/
Love the outfit ideas. I live in the South, near Galveston & these are perfect for our “winters”. However, I need ideas for Spring/Summer. It gets very humid here also. I’m 67 & not slowing down too much!
Love all the Combos! Please keep the ideas coming!:)
Lovvvve the combos. I have some of that same. Some new ideas though. Looking forward to 2023
We are too!
I love basic but classie you can’t go wrong
Hi I like all your looks but could you put together looks for women in The wonderfully extremely humid and hot state of Florida. I’m older 63 but would like to look nice.
Thank you for your feedback! You may be interested in this post then: Fall Capsule Wardrobe for Warm Climates (Women Over 50)
Hi there! I love all these combos- but working in an office can only wear jeans once per week. I’m not much of a dress girl- would love to see some combos using dress pants.
Keep up the good work. Everything is so cute!
I am 5’1”…weigh approximate 118 lbs. I have shorter legs compared to my upper body and carry my fat in my upper thighs and buttocks. I feel like I don’t look nice in anything I wear… it is virtually impossible to find well fitting jeans/pants. I absolutely hate petite cut clothing…and generally petite clothing is on the conservative side and too tailored. I have been a hairdresser for 38 years, and plan to continue for as long as possible…which means I don’t like to spend a lot of money on my clothes…I definitely don’t hesitate to spend on my shoes. Do you have any suggestions on websites I can shop….the town I live in has absolutely nothing.
My look and fashion is very important to me.
Thanks!
Love your style- these looks have given me lots of inspiration! Thank you!
Hi Carolyn, thank you for your tips. The issue I have is that boring beige or ivory that does fit with my skin and my hair (blond silver & grey). Bright colors or strong colors, how can I mix those colors to your outfit ? Thanks.
Hello, Helene! I’m not sure I understand what you mean. Are you saying beige does or doesn’t fit with your coloring?
I love these 8 outfits towards a fall capsule wardrobe, but cant find the styles at a store that i can afford!
Help!!
Though it takes more time, recreating the outfits at a thrift store can be a great way to get pieces you can afford!
Thanks for sharing
Ah, the all-important, essential THIRD layer. Every age CAN wear it, and every figure (imperfect or not) benefits from wearing it. Hides a belly pooch, elongates a short waist, shortens a long waist, and covers the bum! Comes in every conceivable style from moto to boho to business.
The third layer can be such a transformative piece!