Here are 5 easy off duty outfit formulas I love

With all the chaos of sartorial information overload whizzing around the interwebs, it might feel like getting dressed everyday and looking good is nothing but a game of wardrobe roulette. However, there are many classic outfit formulas that always look amazing. Next time you feel like you can’t think of what to wear, keep in mind these 5 off duty outfit formulas that I love.

1. Leather jacket + White Shirt + Black Jeans

Why this works: That a leather jacket will change your life is an undisputed universal truth. The leather jacket, white shirt and black jeans combination is one of the most classic looks stolen straight from James Dean (no apologies for putting a certain Taylor Swift song into your head!). Keeping a look monochromatic also eliminates the headache of colour coordination.

How to wear: This is a edgy but casual look that is best served with a pair of grungy boots or white canvas sneakers, and a slouchy tote to complete that rock chic vibe.

Images Via Pinterest

2. Oversized Button Up Shirt + Boyfriend Jeans

Why this works: It might seem intuitive to pair something slouchy with something fitted, but when going for a boyfriend look, it’s even cooler to go slouchy top to bottom. The impression is that you’ve stolen the whole look from your boyfriend, and look better in it than he does.

How to wear: Tucking in your oversized shirt and rolling up the sleeves are always good ideas to inject a bit of femininity back into this look. As is opting for a classic pointed pump. When Pairing with boots or sneakers, make sure the jeans are rolled up a little to show the ankles (to remind people you have legs under there!).

Images Via The Chronicles of Her, Victoria Tornengren and Pinterest

3. Slouchy Knit + Pencil Skirt

Why this works: The slouchy knit might have a bad rap for being too homely and casual for any special occasions, but pair it with an amazing pencil skirt and the outfit is instantly fashion week material. It’s the cool juxtaposition of the slouchy and fitted, casual and dressy, that makes this outfit formula so compelling.

How to wear: While it’s not a hard and fast rule, heels always work a treat with this look – because the risk of looking stumpy is real. A simple small clutch is also a perfect choice, so as not to throw this look off balance.

Images Via Modern Legacy and Pinterest

4. Denim Jacket + White Jeans

Why this works: The denim jacket is somewhat like the leather jacket’s demure sister – edgy but feminine. Pairing it with white jeans creates a clean and lightweight look that’s perfect for the weekend.

How to wear: This outfit simply screams out for a pair of suede booties. However, any flat shoe, whether ballet flat, sneakers or loafers, in light, neutral colours would also work wonderfully.

Images Via We Wore What, Sincerely Jules, and Pinterest

5. Oversized Coat + Trousers + loafers

Why this works: The coat, trouser and loafer outfit formula creates a dapper look that brings together three classics wardrobe staples. The slouchiness of the coat is reined in by a pair of tailored trousers, making this a relaxed but put together outfit, with a men’s style inspired flavour.

How to wear: Roll up the trousers to show those ankles – sock? I would avoid wearing any with loafers in general. As for the top, a basic t-shirt or lightweight knit are both perfect choices.

Images Via Kayture and Pinterest

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