One thing I don’t have time to do on a regular basis is spend hours getting dressed every morning….
The biggest shift for me was realizing I don’t actually need more clothes — I just need reliable formulas. Pieces that work together easily. Outfits that feel elevated, comfortable, effortless, and repeatable without feeling boring.
Over time, I’ve naturally fallen into a handful of outfit combinations that I come back to over and over again. They work for everyday life, travel, lunch with friends, errands, casual meetings, date nights… all of it. And because they’re built around timeless staples, they make getting dressed feel significantly easier.
If you’ve been staring at your closet lately feeling like you have “nothing to wear,” these are the formulas I’d start with.
And with that I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend ahead!
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1. Ivory or White Denim + Crisp White Button Down
This combination instantly feels polished without trying too hard. The monochromatic palette creates that effortless elevated look, while the oversized button down keeps it relaxed and wearable.
I especially love this formula because it works year round. In cooler months, I’ll add a trench or lightweight knit over my shoulders. During warmer months, I’ll leave the shirt slightly unbuttoned with simple sandals and minimal jewelry.
The key here is contrast in texture and silhouette — structured denim paired with an easy, slightly oversized shirt always feels chic. Or, another favorite combo, structured denim with an easy, lightweight fitted tank.
(Jeans, Top, Tee, Jeans, Necklace, Red Sandals, Cap)
2. Wide Leg Denim + Simple Knit or Tee
This is probably one of my most worn outfit combinations lately. Wide leg denim naturally creates shape and movement, so keeping the top simple helps balance everything out.
I usually reach for:
- a fitted knit tank
- a simple crewneck tee
- a lightweight sweater
- or an easy ribbed tank layered under a cardigan
- an oversized white button-down
This formula works because it feels current without being overly trendy. It’s comfortable, easy to move in, and can shift from casual daytime to dinner simply by swapping accessories.
What elevates it:
Good proportions. If the denim is relaxed, I keep the top slightly more streamlined.
(Jeans, Sweater, Tee, Hat, Sandals)
3. Denim on Denim
Denim on denim is one of those outfit combinations that always looks effortlessly cool when the proportions and washes feel balanced. It has that relaxed, timeless feel while still looking intentional and elevated.
For me, the easiest way to wear it is pairing:
- relaxed straight leg, relaxed denim shorts, or wide leg denim
- with an oversized chambray or denim button down
The key is keeping the styling soft and easy rather than overly structured. Slightly different denim washes help create dimension, and simple accessories keep the outfit from feeling too heavy.
I especially love this formula because it works year round. In warmer months, I’ll style it with sandals and minimal jewelry. During cooler months, I’ll add a lightweight trench, knit over the shoulders, or a sleek belt to give it a bit more structure.
And despite being entirely denim, it somehow still feels neutral and incredibly versatile — which is probably why I continue reaching for it over and over again.
What makes it work:
A relaxed silhouette, tonal variation in the denim, and simple styling. The goal is effortless — not overly coordinated.
(Oversized Denim Top, Necklace, Short Sleeve Denim Top (similar), Shorts)
4. Casual Wide Leg Pants + Simple Knit
This is my go-to when I want comfort but still want to feel elevated.
Relaxed trousers or soft wide leg pants instantly make an outfit feel more refined than leggings, while still giving that same ease and comfort. I typically pair them with:
- a fitted knit tank
- a lightweight sweater
- a simple tee
- or an easy cardigan
This formula is especially good for travel days, coffee meetings, school drop-offs, or casual dinners.
The biggest difference maker here is fabric. Even casual outfits feel elevated when the materials have a bit of softness, drape, or texture.
(Bleached Ivory Pants, Tee, Sandals, Striped Linen Pants)
6. Cotton Skirt + Basic Tank or Tee
A cotton skirt is one of those pieces that quietly does a lot of heavy lifting in a wardrobe (and a favorite for spring and summer seasons). It feels feminine and polished, but still incredibly wearable for everyday life.
I love pairing mine with:
- a simple white tee
- a ribbed tank
- A relaxed lightweight knit
- an oversized button down
- or a lightweight sweater tied over my shoulders
This formula works especially well because it balances structure with softness. The skirt brings movement while the basic top keeps everything grounded and easy.
(Skirt, Tank, Sandals, Black Sweater, Cap)
6. Casual Shorts + Easy Knit or Tee
This is one of those outfit combinations that seems simple — because it is — but the styling details matter.
The difference between an outfit feeling flat versus elevated often comes down to:
- proportions
- fabric
- accessories
- and color palette
I usually stick to neutral tones here because they naturally create a more cohesive look. Adding layered jewelry, a great sandal, or a structured tote makes even the simplest outfit feel intentional.
7. Longer Denim Shorts + Lightweight Top
I’ve talked about this before, but longer denim shorts have completely replaced shorter cutoffs for me lately. They feel more polished, more versatile, and honestly more comfortable.
Paired with:
- a lightweight cotton sweater
- a linen button down
- a simple tank
- or an airy knit
…the entire outfit feels effortless while still looking put together.
This is one of my favorite formulas for Southern California weather because it works during those in-between temperature days where it’s cool in the morning and warmer by afternoon.
(Shorts, Tee, Button Down, Red Sandals)
A Few Small Shifts That Make Simple Outfits Feel More Elevated
Over the years, I’ve realized it’s rarely about having more. Most of the time, it’s about styling the basics you already own a little more intentionally.
A few things that consistently help:
- focusing on fit and proportion
- mixing textures
- choosing softer neutral palettes
- incorporating structured accessories
- and prioritizing quality fabrics when possible
Simple outfits almost always work better when they feel relaxed rather than overly styled.
The Goal Isn’t a Perfect Wardrobe
It’s an easy wardrobe.
One where pieces work together naturally. One where getting dressed doesn’t feel complicated. One where you can repeat combinations in different ways without constantly chasing new trends.
These formulas have become the foundation of my closet because they simplify everything — and honestly, that’s what I want from fashion at this stage of life. Pieces that feel good, work hard, and make everyday dressing feel effortless.