When it comes to elegance and style, a simple outfit is often preferable to a more complex, ornate one. Some of the most classic and enduring outfits and items of clothing in history have also been among the simplest, with Coco Chanel’s Little Black Dress being an obvious example. Everyone’s got one, right?
Getting the best from a simple outfit, however, often means pairing it with the right accessories and styling techniques. This is something I always struggle with – making an outfit come together. Having said there, there are a few ways that I like to do it for that little ‘je ne sais quoi’, and I’m getting a little more adventurous with what I wear these days – other than my ‘mum’ uniform of leggings and a comfy top! It’s nice to wear something nice sometimes isn’t it?
Add Statement Jewellery
When you’re wearing simple, high-quality clothing, you can afford to be a little more adventurous with your choice of jewellery. Big, looping earrings, an eye-catching necklace, or even bangles and bracelets can instantly change the look of an outfit.
You might even choose some nice, simple jewellery to bring together an entire wardrobe, so that everything you wear feels like it belongs to you. Stacked rings on the same finger can also be a game changer – simple, yet effective. Just be sure that everything matches your engagement ring.
Use a Belt to Pull It All Together
I flipping love a good belt. I’ve spent many a penny on belts over the years and they’ve always ended up out of fashion, looking cracked or a bit naff in general. I now like to keep my belts super simple and I’ve got my eye on a slightly more expensive one, but I know it’s going to be classic and actually last!
Your belt is a means of dividing your attire and your body as a whole. You can use it to make statements through contrasting textures and colours. A black leather belt might stand out against a pair of white linen trousers. The way that you style your belt also matters. You might wear it over the top of a blazer, dress, or shirt for an even bolder look.
Experiment with Layering
Working with layers of clothing can make a simple outfit appear more complex than it is. Just a few different elements can create a unique and striking look. You might wear a high-quality blazer over a plain white t-shirt, for example. In the summer I really like wearing an oversized shirt over a cami, sometimes on the shoulder, sometimes off. Switch it up, ladies.
Don’t be afraid to try out new combinations. Stick with what works for you, and abandon what doesn’t. Layering will allow you to get maximum use from a limited selection of items, which in turn will allow you to invest in higher-quality items.
Choose Shoes that Stand Out
When you’re going simple, your choice of footwear really matters. Look for shoes that draw attention. This might mean looking for unique patterns, hues, and designs – or, it might mean putting ordinary shoes in an unexpected context. Plain trainers against a formal dress, for example, have become extremely trendy in recent years. The look works because it violates expectations, although doing this effectively, again, might require a little bit of trial and error.
Coloured trainers are so ‘in’ right now, as are mules and some of the more chunky, funky sandals such as Dr Martens.
Of course, a great pair of shoes should be a pleasure to wear, especially if you know you’re going to be on your feet all day. A pair of shoes that you can’t bring yourself to put on is not going to turn any heads because, let’s be honest, you’ll either take them back, you’ll sell them or they’ll sit gathering dust.
Whatever you choose, choose something that’s for you and you alone – just go that little bit extra and treat yourself. We keep being told to ‘use our best’ for the normal days and clothes are no exception; you won’t catch me doing the food shop in a ball gown though, that’s probably a reach too far.