When I look at my moodboard of outfit inspiration, some of my favorite go-to looks are ones that are perfectly classy, yet casual. Classy casual outfits have that ability to make you look put together, even when the dress code calls for something low-key. For myself (and maybe many of you, too), this is the way I like to approach my daily uniform. If your day-to-day life outside of work also calls for a classy casual wardrobe, keep reading for 9 ideas to inspire your own style moodboard.
1. high-neck tank + jeans + gold jewelry + sunglasses + flip flops
tank top | jeans | flip flops | bag | earrings | sunglasses
Want to instantly upgrade your casual look with little to no effort? Try styling a tonal outfit. A top and bottom in similar shades not only makes it appear like you put more thought and time into your outfit, it also gives you a slimming effect thanks to the uninterrupted visual line that two coordinating colors create.
By themselves, the pieces above are each pretty casual. However, when paired together in a simple color scheme, this ensemble takes on a more classy appearance. First, start with a linen high-neck tank and ecru denim jeans. Add a structured bag with sleek lines in a similar color palette. As for shoes, stick with a simple pair of black flip flops. They’ll make sure that your outfit doesn’t become too elevated. Accessorize with simple gold hoops and a pair of black oval sunglasses to complete the look!
2. vest top + white skirt + sunglasses + tote bag + mary janes
vest | skirt | shoes | bag | sunglasses
Wardrobe staples are a great place to start when it comes to creating classy casual outfits. First, start with a long white skirt. This piece gives you an effortlessly chic vibe in the warmer months, without sacrificing comfort. On top, try a vest top in brown or black. The neutral color palette gives your look a sophisticated touch with a hint of elegance.
As for your accessories, you can go for seasonal staples to balance your look. Add a bit of coastal flair to your outfit with a woven beach tote and woven Mary Janes. Then, add the finishing touch with a pair of tortoiseshell sunglasses. This look could easily take you from the farmer’s market to lunch to an afternoon cocktail!
3. white tee + sweater + straight jeans + gold jewelry + leather bag + ballet flats
white tee | jeans | flats | sweater | earrings | watch | bag
You can’t go much more casual than a t-shirt and jeans. However, if you’re digging through your capsule wardrobe, you’ll find that with a bit of intentional layering, you can elevate this look in a snap.
First, tie a cardigan around your shoulders. It’s a great layer if it gets chilly throughout the day, but also gives your overall look a smart, preppy touch when tied around your shoulders. It also adds visual interest and color contrast to the plain white tee.
Your accessories play a really big role in this look. If you’re going for an off-duty model type of classic style, think timeless jewelry, shoes, and bags. When it comes to footwear, you can’t go wrong with a pair of cap-toed ballet flats (even Coco Chanel would approve). Coordinate your jewelry with a pair of small gold hoops and a gold bracelet watch. Complete your look with a structured handbag, which also helps to add polish. This Italian box-style bag from Quince is simple, but oh so chic.
4. striped lady jacket + sunglasses + wide-leg jeans + pearls + slingback heels
sweater | jeans | heels | earrings | sunglasses | bag
Yes, you can use jeans to create a classy outfit! One key strategy to styling jeans in an elevated way is to choose a pair with no holes, rips, or embellishments. Stick to classic styles such as straight-leg, slim, or wide-leg pants. Right off the bat, these qualifications ensure you have a polished foundation to your look.
On top, balance out the casual jeans with a more sophisticated top. A lady jacket cardigan is a great choice for a smart casual look. This look is ideal for a casual Friday dress code, lunch at a nice restaurant, or a day spent shopping with friends.
Finish your look with minimalist, yet elegant accessories. Dainty pearl earrings, classic sunglasses, a structured leather bag, and slingback heels are all great choices!
5. t-shirt + crew sweater + trench coat + sunglasses + shoulder bag + sneakers
t-shirt | sweater | jeans | sneakers | sunglasses | hoops | bag | coat
If you’re trying to come up with new classy casual outfit ideas, start by imagining your favorite laid-back outfit. From there, make one swap at a time. This will help you to land on a final look that still feels true to your personal style, but that also has that perfect balance of casual and chic that you’re trying to find.
Love a denim jacket? One easy swap to make is to switch it out with a trench coat or a Mac coat instead. This style is inherently more elevated and flatters all body types. There are a number of different colors and shapes to choose from, so you can select one that feels great to you. It’s also the perfect piece to wear year-round, and is easy to layer over and under.
As for the rest of your look, keep things simple with jeans, a white t-shirt, and a cotton or cashmere crewneck sweater. When it comes to accessorizing, you can stick to more casual pieces. Try a camel leather shoulder bag, your favorite sneakers, gold hoops, and sunglasses to finish the look. This is the perfect outfit for busy days when you’ll spend a lot of time walking or on your feet.
6. crop trench + mariner tee + basket bag + sunglasses + red flats + white jeans
t-shirt | jeans | jacket | ballet flats | basket | sunglasses
Are you as inspired as we are by Parisian style? This next look can be recreated by a few French girl favorites. First, start with the timeless Mariner tee in black and white. Stripes have a long history in France, and aren’t going out of style any time soon! Next, swap out your classic blue jeans for a white pair for a more polished look. You can add a pop of color back into your outfit with red ballet flats.
Finish the look with French girl favorite accessories, including a raffia tote bag and oval sunglasses. The final touch? A cropped trench coat for a trending take on the longtime favorite.
7. button-down shirt + jeans + pearls + leather bag + ballet flats
button-down shirt | jeans | flats | bag | earrings
If you prefer a minimalist style, you can recreate the look above with just five pieces from your capsule wardrobe. First, start with a pair of jeans. As I mentioned before, avoid holes, rips, or embellishments if you’re going for a classy casual look! Next, reach into your closet for your favorite button-down shirt. You can leave it untucked for a more casual look, or tuck it in and add a belt for a little extra polish.
As for footwear, a pair of neutral ballet flats is perfect. Finish the look with a structured handbag and a simple pair of pearl stud earrings.
8. striped t-shirt + blazer + shorts + pearls + flats + leather bag
blazer | flats | shorts | t-shirt | bag | earrings
If you’ve ever doubted your ability to make jean shorts look classy, think again! I’m here to prove to you and “jorts” lovers everywhere that they can be incorporated into polished looks for spring and summer. First, choose a pair with no holes or rips (the same rule applies to them as jeans), and stick to a dark wash for a flattering, elevated look. On top, go for a neutral t-shirt in a classic pattern – stripes add interest without overwhelming you. Then, add a classy layer, like an oversized blazer. This helps to add that classy balance to your outfit.
Stick with polished accessories, too. Pearl stud earrings, a structured leather shoulder bag, and black ballet flats all fit the bill.
9. black midi dress + gold jewelry + strappy sandals + raffia tote bag
dress | sandals | tote bag | earrings
Every woman needs a little black dress in their wardrobe, and its versatility speaks volumes about the power that it holds in your capsule wardrobe! It’s easy to dress up or down, which makes it a natural choice to include in a list of classy casual outfits.
If you want to dress it down for a classy yet casual look, keep your accessories simple. Think a pair of strappy sandals, a raffia tote bag, and gold hoop earrings. Those are the only pieces you need to finish this easy summer outfit formula!
Classy, Casual, and Chic
If you want to style classy yet casual outfits, finding a good balance of polished and laid-back pieces is the key. It’s all about putting together outfits that have sophisticated details, even if you’re just wearing a t-shirt and jeans. The great thing about these looks is that they can fit right into your daily uniform, without missing a beat!
Ready for more classy casual outfit ideas? Up Next: 9 Casual Elegant Outfits for Every Day
