What is it about easy outfit ideas that makes them just so hard to come by? Perhaps it’s when we get swayed by trends or simply have too many options in a bursting wardrobe to think clearly (see our ways to clear out a wardrobe if you’re really struggling on this point). Either way, we all have those days when getting dressed is a chore. And right now calls for the easiest outfits to avoid a sweat-inducing panic before the day even begins. You know, the low-maintenance dresses that only require well-chosen boots to be complete. Or the throw-on two-piece that is comfortable to wear and effortlessly versatile with an accessory switch. Although these pieces need little introduction, each season, there are new recipes for success when it comes to creating the perfect look.
So rather than getting in a tizzy, our team has decided to compile a list of easy outfit ideas for us to all reference in the future—and we’d very much like to share them with you. They are the foolproof looks that work without being too much of a challenge or causing morning hysteria. So the next time you’re entirely bored of your closet, just revisit the looks below and see what you’ve got to play with. Should your rails be lacking in a particular area and you’d like to remedy it, we’ve also found the perfect shopping options to re-create these influencer-approved outfits. Because we’re all about making your life easier.
Style Notes: Sometimes, there’s nothing better than a pretty top worn with plain jeans and a trusty pair of heels. Works for day or night.
Style Notes: Denim dresses are often overlooked, but they’re a year-round staple that requires little to no styling to look pulled-together.
Style Notes: On the days when my looks feel a little lacking, I grab a shoulder bag and voilà—instant polish.
Style Notes: Cardigans are continuing to trend this year, and I’ve noticed more and more fashion types wearing longline iterations. A small update that packs a big style hit.
Style Notes: This is the kind of trusty look you can pull out on any given day during any given year and feel timeless in.
Style Notes: Is there any outfit that can’t be improved with the addition of an oversized blazer? We (we being Jessica Skye and me) think not.
Style Notes: Layering is key at this point in the year, and I’ve noticed lots of influencers incorporating knitted bra tops into their looks.
Style Notes: The preppy look is tricky to master—at least, it is if you want to make it look grown-up—but María Bernad makes it easy with her tartan miniskirt, knee boots and boxy blazer.
Style Notes: Co-ords are the instant outfit you should never be without. In the winter, they’re great in knitted fabrics, but I also love the relaxed suiting that’s coming through as the two-piece to know.
Style Notes: Love dressing to a theme? Then take your cue from Paula Sutton in this adorable vintage-esque look you can wear to every upcoming occasion.
Style Notes: I know it’s obvious, but sometimes the plainest and most understated outfits really are the best. Look for the perfect fit in your jeans and tee. Then you can accessorise however you want.
Style Notes: Knitted dresses are a winter style staple, but if yours are beginning to feel fatigued, the addition of a chain belt will give them some pizzazz.
Style Notes: Especially effective when you need to get ready in a hurry, pull on a loose-fit shirt and pair it with some tailored chinos. Easy.
Style Notes: Leather outerwear is a big deal this season, and Javi finds the perfect way to shift her shirt: with a bra top and trending baggy jeans.
Style Notes: Look like you’ve put all the effort into styling your outfit by wearing a pair of bold earrings with your most directional top, just like Elif did.
Style Notes: It’s the kind of simple combination you could easily overlook, but you’ll never be let down by a smart shirt dress and city-ready sneaks.
Style Notes: Trench coats are the cornerstone of every good winter wardrobe, but if your classic beige numbers aren’t hitting the style mark, switch in one with a vinyl finish.
Style Notes: Black tops with simple cut-outs keep cropping up on the ’gram and in new-in sections. Wear yours with black trousers or jeans like Chrissy Rutherford did for a look that’s, yes, simple, but also fashionable.
Style Notes: If dresses make up the majority of your wardrobe, make them feel all the more laid-back by simply adding a pair of cowboy boots, which just so happen to be one of 2021’s biggest footwear trends.
Style Notes: Want to wear that short hemline but want to wear it to work? Add a longer-line blazer in, and you’ll feel instantly more demure.
Style Notes: I’m all about accessory updates that make a big impact, and right now, I’m predicting scarves are going to make a resounding comeback. Just look at how cute Karina looks wearing hers.
Style Notes: Last year was dominated by beige, and this year has followed suit. Seek out every possible shade you can, wear them together and add a smattering of gold and pearl jewellery. Done.
Style Notes: Marissa Cox knows that a surefire way to give every outfit a cool edge is by layering an oversized denim jacket over the top. Particularly when you’re layering it over leopard print.
Style Notes: One of the quickest ways to update your look is with a fun printed top, and a thin second-skin style is ideal for when the weather is on our side.
Style Notes: Chances are you have a few checked pieces in your wardrobe, but do you ever wear them together? No? Let’s change that.
Style Notes: Knitted vests are still all the rage this winter. Make like Naaomi Ross and elevate yours with a white shirt and wide, tailored trousers.
Style Notes: Monikh Dale knows how to create fresh-looking ensembles with the pieces she already has in her wardrobe, and this shacket look is one we want to re-create immediately.
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Next up, the biggest autumn/winter 2021 fashion trends you need to know.