How to style a neutral outfit and look luxe every time

Wearing: Jumper – Sportscraft (similar) | Pleated Trousers – Zara (Similar) | Bag – Chloe (Faye Medium in Grey) | Triple Strap Heels – The Mode Collective | Bangle – NAJO | Watch – Cluse Watches

Photography: Jane Lee Photography

Perhaps too much in the way of a 90’s cliche, my pre-teen obsessions traversed the spectrum of pink things, from Barbie Dolls to My Little Ponies, all of which, admittedly, comprised my entire purpose for living. Fast forward to present day, and I can’t say that I’ve left this patently absurd pink fixation behind me. After all, isn’t beige simply an iteration of pink? A little mind-blown by that hypothetical? I feel you. But these confessions are for your eyes only. My official story will continue to be on the following lines: neutrals are infinitely versatile and possess an exaggerated power to make everything look luxe (even when they aren’t). As such, neutral outfit formulas are among of my top minimalist styling game plans.

My tip for a luxe looking neutral outfit? First, sidestepping the colour coordination puzzle all together, you can pretty well never go wrong pairing neutrals with neutrals. Think white, beige, grey and, sparingly, taupe. All of these are to be mixed and matched with gay abandon, in subtle variations of shades. The result being a seemingly serendipitous put-together (in other words – effortless) outfit. I’ve paired an oversized jumper with some tailored trousers, pulled together with my Chloe Faye Bag, all in similar, but not identical, shades. Camouflaged in this neutral ensemble, these $79 Zara trousers could be mistaken for something much more high end.

Second, minimal and clean are practically synonyms for ‘luxe’. Choose clean cut styles in smooth natural fabrics: slinky wool knits, cotton twill separates and crêpe de chine blouses. Accessories should also be kept on the light side. I’ve completed this outfit with a statement bag and some barely there strappy heels.

Finally, perhaps the most potent strategy for making every outfit look luxe is a good garment steamer in your corner.

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