Secrets for Easy Sophistication
My Outfit
Whitstable Trench Coat, Heels, Paperbag Trousers and Sunglasses all c/o Boden | The Cambridge Satchel Company Bag | J.Crew Necklace | Boden Breton
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been wearing some version of this outfit on repeat, as I find it’s a simple, but sophisticated look that can take me to any number of places and situations. For everyday life, I love to dress in a way that’s elevated but still and comfortable and below, I’ve broken down my secrets to easy sophistication!
Put your best foot forward
Literally—the footwear you choose speaks volumes! Eschew sneakers (personally, I cannot understand the ‘ugly’ trainer trend!) for flats or heels, but no matter what you choose make sure it’s a comfortable option so you can stride with confidence. I like this go-with-anything neutral pair. Its strap makes walking around a breeze while the pointed toe lengthens my legs.
It’s also important to make sure shoes are clean and well-kept. No need to buy a new pair, just give existing ones a little TLC as needed, whether it’s a wipe clean with a wet cloth or a trip to the cobbler for a new sole.
It’s all in the details
Don’t forget to put a little finishing touch on an outfit with some styling, like a ‘French tuck’ of the shirt or rolling of the sleeves. With this outfit, I tied the trench’s belt in a bow around the back, resulting in added definition to the waist and an unexpected, feminine touch!
Wear an unexpected pairing with confidence
I don’t know about you, but when I see ladies rocking colors that ‘break the rules’ I take note. Whether it’s bright cerise paired with red or a bright and cheery yellow paired with a beautiful blue, it makes the wearer seem confident and pulled-together. An easy-to-wear, but still unexpected pairing is blue and black.
I grew up reading magazines saying to choose one or the other, but I think wearing the two together looks intentional and sophisticated. It’s even easier when pieces like this trench already do the work for you, with the black grosgrain stripe along the sleeves of the navy trench.
Ditch the denim
I know, I know, it’s definitely possible to wear jeans in a way that’s chic and elevated. But I equate ‘easy’ with ‘foolproof’ and since denim is an inherently casual fabric, the simplest way to a sophisticated outfit is ditching denim altogether!
When in doubt, add a Breton. Or a Trench.
You can never go wrong with the classics.
I love to stock my wardrobe with pieces that stand the test of time—think a little black dress, tortoiseshell sunnies, a black and white Breton tee or a classic trench coat. In my opinion, reaching for one (or more) of these pieces, is the easiest route to chic look.
But before you go and buy the ‘classic wardrobe staple’ starter kit, always think about what works for your lifestyle and personal style. I, for one, will almost always avoid a white button-down if I can help it, so you’ll only find one in my closet (hiding all the way in the back).
Trench coats, however, are much more suited to my on-the-go lifestyle in a city that’s known for its unpredictable weather!
Until next time,
Brenda
