4 Ways To Wear Basics

There is something oddly envious about a woman who can make basics look chic. While I do love a statement sleeve and bright pop of color, when I scour my Pinterest boards looking for outfits to recreate, I am almost always met with hundreds of girls wearing the most simple combinations and looking killer while doing it.

So today I’m attempting to be that girl who makes jeans and a tee look so effortlessly cool. Plus, I’m throwing in a few tips to help make your basics a little less bland— fingers crossed these are all looks you can recreate from your own wardrobe!

Shorts + A Tee 

Well, I know everyone’s got a white tee shirt sitting in their closet. I’ve got a gazillion but this one is my favorite. It’s got the perfect amount of crop and is on the boxier side which I love. It’s important to play with proportions when styling. If you’re wearing a long oversized tee, go for fitted biker shorts. Crop tops pair best with high rise denim—these jeans shorts are some of my favs. Black denim is definitely a college essential; I highly recommend grabbing a pair before move-in day.

To spice up your basics but keep things neutral, throw on a pair of patterned chunky sneakers. These snakeskin ones are the perfect color scheme and add just enough sass to my look. Black oversized sunglasses and a few gold jewels will easily tie your look together.

Outfit Details— tee: SheIn, shorts: Romwe, shoes: SheIn, sunglasses: Discount Glasses, earrings: SheIn, necklace: SheIn, watch: Fossil, bracelet: Mantra Band

Monochrome + Gold Accessories 

When in doubt, wear black on black. I picked up this Target tank top for $3 last summer and it is hands down one of my most worn tops; you can dress it down with oversized sweats, or up by tucking it into a black denim skirt. A monochrome outfit is extra flattering and one of the easiest combinations to put together!

If you’re headed out I recommend throwing on a pair of heels for a little extra lift and a major confidence boost. Star accessories are always my go-to when looking to add a little spunk to my outfits. Chain belts are so “in” right now and look amazing with matching star earrings. This outfit doesn’t take much to recreate but it’ll make you feel unstoppable!

Outfit Details— tank: Target, skirt: Express, shoes: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, belt: SheIn, cuff: Mantra Band

White + Denim 

I’ve recently hopped on the “mom” shorts trend and have been playing around with this style all summer long. To give things that effortless Rachel Green vibe I’m pairing them with a small white tank. Cropped and fitted is the perfect contrast to baggier shorts plus they are perfect for these humid August temperatures.

To keep things practical and simple, slip into your favorite white sneakers. I’ve got chunky ones for parties, comfy ones for workouts, and these platform ones for all those in-between occasions. They give off a 90s vibe and pair with everything! Add cat-eye sunnies to give your outfit a retro feel and don’t forget a pair of hoops + a chain belt—oftentimes a few accessories are all your look really needs!

Outfit Details— tank: SheIn, shorts: Express, belt: SheIn, sneakers: Steve Madden, sunglasses: Discount Glasses, earrings: SheIn, watch: Fossil, bracelet: Mantra Band, necklace: The Silver Heron

The Basics + A Pop Of Color

This outfit right here is one of my favorites for the evening hours. I love jeans and prefer them to shorts any day. If you’re headed somewhere like dinner, spice up your basics with just a subtle touch of color. I love these lilac earrings and this cute baguette bag fits all of the essentials.

Cropped flares are the perfect denim option for the summer. If you’re opting out of chunky heels for the night, slip into mules for the perfect “in-between” feel. If you’re headed somewhere with an undetermined “dress code”, something similar to this is a safe bet!

Outfit Details— bodysuit: Romwe, jeans: Express, shoes: DSW, earrings: Walmart, purse: SheIn, cuff: Mantra Band, necklace: The Silver Heron

I can’t believe how many of you said you needed help styling basics when I asked what kind of styling advice you were searching for! To me, it’s always a no brainer “jewlery, purse, sunglasses, etc” to switch up my outfits and elevate my basics. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to accessorizing you can read this blog post for some tips and tricks!

When the temperatures cool down a bit and fall fashion rolls around I will do an updated one of these so you have a few options for all of your spooky season festivities. Anything else you need help styling? If so, let me know below so I can get working on a post for you!

With love, McKenz

Latest Post: 3 Ways To Wear Athleisure This Season
Related Post: How To Accessorize Like a Pro
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