The Top-and-Jeans Outfit Formula You'll Find Chic Women Across Europe Wearing

Gone are the days when I used to set my alarm for 6 a.m. to wash and style my hair, apply a full face of makeup, and spend about 20 minutes deciding on and ironing my outfit before heading off to work. As I work remotely, I feel less inclined to do more than the bare minimum in terms of getting ready for the day, but aside from that, I've found that I'm looking for simplicity in all aspects of my life—including the outfits I wear when I'm not sat at my desk. Now, I spend my scrolling time looking for low-lift but stylish looks I can re-create with pieces I already own. It was just this weekend when I was looking back at the most recent additions to my Instagram Saved folder that I realized one of the looks I'd saved down featured a very easy two-part formula: a black top and blue jeans.

Granted, this might not sound like the most exciting pairing, but it is reliable in its timelessness. In fact, below are eight of my favorite black-top-with-jeans outfits that I think serve as a testament to how chic the pairing can be. Scroll on to see and shop eight uncomplicated yet stylish black-top-with-jeans outfits that will never let you down, from shirts and camisoles to T-shirts and blazers worn by women in London, Paris, and Copenhagen alike.

1. Fitted Shirt + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: I'm noticing that fitted shirts keep cropping up on the market this season, offering an elevated take on the shirt-and-jeans look so many of us rely upon.

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2. Camisole + Mary Janes

Style Notes: For a outfit that can genuinely carry you from day to night, look no further than a camisole, blue jeans, and on-trend Mary Janes.

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3. Blazer + Tote Bag

Style Notes: Adding a blazer to your jeans is one of my favorite ways to level up my favorite denim. Make it black and pair it with a simple black top underneath and you can't go wrong.

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4. Strapless Top + Corsage Necklace

Style Notes: A strapless top paired with jeans taps into the Y2K aesthetic that continues to endure. Look for slouchy denim to bring the look up-to-date and finish with a current-feeling corsage necklace.

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5. Coat + Cardigan

Style Notes: This outfit idea is so British, so even in the "warmer" months, knitwear and tailored coats can never be too out of reach. Handily, in a black colorway, they look stylish and will keep you warm when the weather takes a downward turn.

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6. Sleeveless Knit + Heeled Mules

Style Notes: When it is warm enough, I am always tempted to go sleeveless. A knitted tank top or waistcoat will echo the clean lines of simple, straight-leg denim.

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7. Leather Shirt + Heels

Style Notes: Add another texture into the equation with the addition of a leather shirt or shacket. This combination looks authentically '90s in the best possible way.

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8. T-Shirt + Studded Belt + Loafers

Style Notes: Sticking to wardrobe classics allows you to showcase bolder accessories. I, for one, will be re-creating this outfit featuring dark-blue jeans, a black tee, and a studded belt ASAP.

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This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.