Achieving a casual yet chic personal style is most definitely within reach no matter what age you are. I’ve found that as I get older, I’m more concerned with comfort than squeezing myself into something trendy and lacking function. This doesn’t mean we’ve entered into Frumpy Frumpersville! With smart choices on neutrals, splurge vs. save tips, and a blend of cute and comfortable pieces you can design a closet that matches both your personal design aesthetic with how you personally want to feel like you’re in your own skin. Perfect for women this side of 40 like me (ahem, 41 years young thanks very much)!
Finding Your Casual Yet Chic Style
Creating a personal style that is both casual and chic can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re heading to brunch in Charlotte or attending a gallery opening in New York, achieving an effortlessly stylish look is all about combining the right pieces. Here’s how you can curate a wardrobe that blends cute and comfortable fashion, focusing on neutrals and smart splurges. I’ll share how I’ve achieved this for me, but you gotta do you, boo.
The Power of Neutrals
Neutrals are the foundation of a chic wardrobe. They’re versatile, timeless, and can be mixed and matched to create countless outfit combinations. Think shades like beige, ivory, gray, black and soft pastels. These colors not only offer a sophisticated palette but also provide an excellent base for layering or accessorizing. Monotone vibes are trending right now and I’m loving seeing the same color on color but with a mix of textures in one fit.
How to Use Neutrals in Your Wardrobe:
Mix Textures: Combine different textures like cotton, silk, or cashmere to add depth and interest. I personally love gauzy cottons, linens, and anything that can be cleaned easily. Beware of owning too many dry-clean-only pieces… your bank account won’t thank you for it!
Layer Smartly: Pair a neutral blazer with a white tee or a cream sweater over a beige blouse for a polished look. It’s giving, “I prepared for the weather.” I hate being too hot or too cold, so I’m always prepared with layers. I definitely get my chops busted on the soccer sidelines, but guess who’s getting the last laugh when the temperature dips and I’m the only gal prepared.
Add Subtle Pops of Color: Use accessories like a scarf, bag, or shoes in muted tones to enhance your outfit. The 90’s and early 2000’s girl aesthetic is having its moment right now, but I’m the O.G. of that sh*t. So having a pair of green suede Adidas sambas makes me like that 4th grade soccer girly I was while also showing up chic and in-the-moment IRL today.
Play with Proportions: A long, flowy cardigan over slim-fitting jeans can create a balanced silhouette. Not to mention cozy AF. My favorite layer right now is this teddy bear material wrap from Nordic Beach. I want one in every color… but I’m very mindful, very demure so I stick with neutrals to wear with loads of my OOTDs.
Splurge vs. Save: Making Smart Fashion Money Moves
Knowing when to splurge and when to save is key to building a chic yet casual wardrobe without breaking the bank. High-quality basics are worth the investment, while trendier items can be sourced for less.
Where to Splurge:
Classic Outerwear: A well-fitted trench coat or tailored blazer. Do NOT go bargain basement on weather-related staples like a winter coat. I once had a North Face parka for 15 years until the goose down went caput. I’ve since upgraded to Canada Goose and intend to have this bad boy for another 15 years or more. No shivers… EVER!
Quality Denim: Jeans that fit perfectly and last longer. I love Victoria Beard but will admit that I equally love my jeans from Zara. Splurge and Save all in one category!
Footwear: Comfortable yet stylish shoes, like leather loafers or ankle boots. Your feet are a part of aging gracefully. If we continue to shove our toes in cheap heels, we’re setting ourselves up for disaster. Same concept applied to shoes you workout in… don’t’ go cheap! Your feet – and the rest of your joints – will thank you.
Handbags: A timeless bag that elevates any outfit. Nothing screams timeless like a Chanel or Prada bag, but you don’t have to go super duper high end to achieve transcendence. Look for brands with quality (real) materials like suede, leather, etc. and ensure you treat them with care. They’ll last you forever.
Where to Save:
Trendy Tops: Fun patterns or seasonal colors. You can find these just about anywhere but I love Aerie, Abercrombie, Zara, Mango, Aritzia, Target, and Amazon right now for these pieces.
Accessories: Statement jewelry or scarves. Look for fun costume jewelry at places like JCrew Factory. There’s loads of options.
Basic Tees: Affordable brands with good quality. Again, JCrew Factory is a good bet for basic tees but I’ve also found a ton at the brands listed above.
Seasonal Pieces: Items that you might not wear often. If you’re not planning on wearing that one-shoulder going out top (early 2000 girlies… heyyyy!) across all the seasons, then don’t break the bank on this.
Achieving Chic Comfort
Looking chic doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. It’s about finding pieces that feel good and look great. Seek out styles that offer both structure and ease, like stretch fabrics or flowy cuts that drape well on the body.
Comfortable Yet Chic Must-Haves:
Midi Dresses: Perfect for casual days or dressed-up evenings.
Stretchy, High-Waisted Jeans: Offer comfort while maintaining a sleek appearance. My Zara Marine Jeans are in heavy rotation right now in two different colors. Even my 13 year old daughter has them. Does that make me cool?
Tailored Joggers: Can be paired with a blouse and heels for an elevated casual look. I love the feeling of Spanx’s Air Essentials and they carry joggers in their line.
Chunky Knit Sweaters: Stylish and cozy for cooler weather. For me, I’ve got to buy these in person and love shopping around Charlotte at my local boutiques like Julie’s at the Park Road Shopping Center to see what I can find.
Accessorizing for Effortless Style
Accessories can make or break an outfit, especially when it comes to achieving a chic look. The right accessories add personality to neutral basics and create a polished appearance.
Top Accessories to Elevate Your Look:
Statement Earrings or Necklaces: Add a focal point to simple outfits. I have both. For one, it’s my Erica name plate (my Tri State Area Puerto Ricans feel me) that my mom gave me when I was eight years old. I wear it every single day. Most recently for my 40th, my mother-in-law gifted me the most gorgeous gold hoops from a local jeweler where she’s from in Portland, Oregon. Such a special gift and sooooo me.
Scarves and Wraps: Offer both style and warmth. If you’re looking to splurge, find yourself some cashmere. If you’re looking to save, there’s plenty of faux pashminas out there.
Belts: Cinch the waist and add shape to dresses or oversized tops. Investments, like a solid Gucci belt or fun finds like a woven thick wrap belt are always worth it. I also love finding artisans that make the thick leather wrap belts which offer that cinched-waist feel plus the ultimate sophistication.
Sunglasses and Hats: Provide a stylish edge and sun protection. I’m a Goodr girl right now but love all brands that have the classic wayfarer look. Brands like Woody’s have cute versions made of wood and I’m definitely into that vibe.
At the End of the Day
Creating a casual yet chic personal style doesn’t require an entire wardrobe overhaul. With a focus on neutrals, smart splurges, and comfortable pieces, you can build a versatile closet that keeps you looking stylish whether you’re here in Charlotte like me, living in the epicenter of style in New York, or anywhere in between. Remember, the key is to find what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and effortlessly chic.
I’ll be sharing shoppable mood boards with my style choices so stick with me and I’ll keep you plugged in on what’s hot and what’s not.
