You don’t always have to spend money on something new. Get more mileage out of your closet by learning how to style old favorites in new ways. We asked lifestyle blogger Hallie Wilson for her best advice — and of course — tons of outfit inspo.
Black Blazer
A fitted black blazer is arguably every girl’s BFF (best fashion friend). While you can wear it with virtually anything and everything, try it with a drop-waist dress for an elongating effect. The key component is to ensure your jacket is tailored to fit your body — then, you can use it to dress up any outfit — including maxi silhouettes, a floaty dress, and even your favorite jean shorts.
Basic Tee
Believe it or not, your most comfortable basic tee (or even a workout tank) can fill the bill for both work and weekend. Simply tuck your pick into a pencil skirt and dress it up with heels and jewelry for a look that’s comfy and cool.
Pencil Skirt
No matter your body type, the pencil skirt is as figure-flattering as they come. It whittles your waist, enhances curves, and lends a chic edge to your look no matter the occasion. Of course, you can wear it with a variety of blouses and blazers, but why not try that T-shirt for an effortlessly fashion-forward look? Hello, casual Friday! Keep your shoes on the dressier side, though, to ensure your ensemble looks balanced.
Dressy Heels
Dig out those heels you only wear to weddings and try them with denim. Boyfriend jeans and strappy sandals may sound like a fashion oxymoron, but it’s quite the contrary: With purposeful styling and a bold red lip, they’re an unexpected closet match-made-in-heaven.
Statement Necklace
While most people wear a statement necklace against a neutral background to create contrast, try wearing a colorful statement necklace that’s the same hue as your top. The unexpected pop will add an interesting element of texture to your ensemble. And, hey, the bolder the better — a statement necklace is a great conversation starter.
Ankle Boots
Yep, you love them in the fall, but try ankle booties in spring and summer, too. Wear them with tailored shorts or use them to toughen up a super-feminine silky dress. Finish the look with a no-fuss, no-frills handbag to avoid trend overload.
Black Dress
The LBD is a classic for a reason — throw it on and you have an instant easy look for evening. To make yours work for daytime, too, top it with a T-shirt and knot the fabric at the waist. If you’re heading to the office, layer on a blazer for coverage and structure.
Striped Shirt
Most people tend to pair stripes with solids, which is absolutely fine. Who doesn’t love white jeans and a navy striped top for a nautical look? But don’t be afraid to freshen things up by mixing patterns — bold florals (in a skirt, shorts, or pants) work particularly well. One rule of thumb: Limit your palette to no more than three colors to keep your outfit anchored.
Sweatshirt
While the sweatshirt was once relegated to lounging on weekends, this laid-back style staple has quietly undergone a fashionable transformation. Thanks to the rise of athleisure, it’s become a big contender for out-of-the-house ensembles. Layer your favorite playful crewneck over a blouse and lightweight skirt. The end result is streamlined and perfectly transitional from day-to-night.
T-shirt Dress
The T-shirt dress is your MVP (most versatile piece) for taking virtually all guesswork out of creating an effortlessly cool ensemble. Whether styled with your favorite flats or a summer vest and statement heels, an anything-but-basic T-shirt dress works overtime in the wardrobe department.
White Jeans
We’re big contenders for wearing white year-round, and this bright-but-monochrome palette is a refreshing way to up the ante on your favorite denim. Take the sizzle factor to the next level and add a bold pop of color — red shoes are a fail-proof way to spice up any casual ensemble.
Chunky Sweater
It’s time to use your favorite cozy sweater for more than lounging around the house. Stash it in your office and throw it over a maxi dress for a stylish way to warm up in subzero air conditioning. Bonus: Use this combo to help transition flimsy summer dresses for fall.
