As we settle in to 2025, it's easy to find yourself falling into an outfit rut. The days are still pretty short, the weather seems to have settled on a steady cold temperature and finding the motivation to create fresh new looks is increasingly a struggle. Whenever I find myself in one of these ruts, I know that the essential condition for any new looks is this: they must be incredibly simple to assemble.
Thankfully, I'm of the belief that when it comes to most day to day outfits, simple really is best. The chicest influencers I obsess over all base their looks on a rotation of closet staples that they somehow manage to still make feel fresh and exciting. Cracking the code on how they do it is the key to livening up our February wardrobes without setting ourselves up to fail.
To help get us started, I've done some research and picked out five great looks that tick the boxes of being impressively elegant and irresistibly easy to put together. You're sure to already own many of the staples involved, like straight-leg blue jeans, a thick wool coat and a crisp shirt, and just need to invest in some fun (and colourful) additions to help give them a second life. Come on, let's get out of this February fashion rut—it's time to make getting dressed fun again!
EASY OUTFITS TO COPY THIS YEAR:
1. PLEATED SKIRT + CAR COAT + LEOPARD FLATS
Style Notes: There's just something about a pleated skirt that always looks effortlessly chic and timeless. Follow Chrystelle's example and give yours a modern refresh by styling with a polo knit and leopard flats.
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This comes in three other on-trend colours if you want to mix it up a bit.
Our editors are obsessed with pleated skirts right now.
The kind of jacket that will never go out of style.
These are the perfect elevated flats.
2. CARDIGAN + SUEDE JACKET + BAGGY JEANS
Style Notes: This is a masterclass in layering for the transitional season. A cardigan buttoned up and worn as a top is such a great styling trick, especially when you balance the preppiness of the look with the Seventies vibe of the suede jacket.
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Is there anything better than a cashmere cardigan?
Wide-leg jeans dominated last year, and by the looks of things I don't think they're going anywhere this season.
This tobacco shade is so versatile.
A loafer always comes in handy.
Top of my wish list.
3. TURTLENECK + SHIRT + LEATHER JACKET + TAILORED TROUSERS
Style Notes: This outfit looks so elevated, yet when you break it down it's surprisingly simple to put together. Win-win. I'm particularly into the trick of styling a shirt over a fitted turtleneck—so chic.
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Made for layering.
This looks so much more expensive than its price tag.
A jacket for all seasons.
The fit of these is just perfect.
Ballet flats help keep the whole look that bit more casual.
I've spotted so many influencers opting for an oversized leather clutch.
4. CABLE-KNIT DRESS + KNEE HIGH BOOTS
Style Notes: Whenever I have no idea what to wear, I reach for a comfy yet chic cable knit dress. Elevate the look by adding tonal accessories such as a shoulder bag and knee-high boots.
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I love this look!
I must have it.
Just sensationally good boots.
5. DOUBLE DENIM + RED JUMPER + POINTED TOE KITTEN HEELS + SUEDE TOTE
Style Notes: Yes, you really can do double denim. The key is to add another colour to help break up all the indigo—and what better option than red, the trending hue that looks set to continue to dominate well into 2025.
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This denim shirt is buttery soft.
Don't sleep on H&M's denim collection.
This slouchy style is ideal for tying over your shoulders.
These are the kind of shoes that instantly upgrade any look.
As @symphonyofstyle proves, a suede tote is the ultimate finishing touch.
