I don't think I need to give an explanation on my relationship with modest dressing, as I've written about it a lot over here on Who What Wear. But as much as I love experimenting with new trends or learning new styling tricks to show you, there are a few classic outfit formulas that I always rely on. While it's fun to play dress-up in your own closet, sometimes it's 15 minutes till you have to leave and you just need to do what's easiest yet chicest for you. That's where my go-to looks come in.
To prove I actually do rely on these formulas (journalistic integrity!), I've added photos of me wearing each not once, but twice. (Side note: I'm sure there are many other times I've sported each look but didn't have the grace that day to shoot for the 'gram.) Once you have these formulas set in your mind, it'll be easy for you to get dressed quickly. Trust me, as I'm not a morning person. I've even shopped out similar options for you if you're feeling inspired to add something new to your closet this season.
A blazer, T-shirt, and jeans make a classic look that just always looks polished. It's not too fancy but not too laid back, which pretty much sums up my style.
Even in muted tones, the look still stands out.
Shop the Look
Maxi dresses are considered to be a modest-dressing staple, but I've always found them to be a little boring as-is. Wait till it's cold out to wear one with a vest and boots. Trust me—it makes a simple dress so much better.
See what I mean? Top it off with some statement accessories if you're feeling brave.
Shop the Look
Styling loud tops like above are known to be hard, but they're actually the most worn in my closet. Since the top draws enough attention, it's easy to style around. An oversize jacket and wide-leg pants don't take away from the top, but accent it perfectly.
Just because an outfit involves the same formula, doesn't mean it looks exactly the same. See how I took the same from above but used different colors and silhouettes to change it up?
Shop the Look
I love a good sweater-vest, but I think open vests can look so much more elevated in a look. A fitted top and high-waisted trousers cinch perfectly between the open vest, making it an ensemble that will flatter anyone.
Opt for a knit vest or a tailored vest. Either way, it's a key layering piece.
Shop the Look
When in doubt, opt for a matching set and an easy pair of flats. It's casual-cool in the best way possible, plus there's not much to think about in the styling department.
To get a knit set to not look like pajamas, add a basic top underneath to break up the look.
Shop the Look
When the weather is warm, slip skirts are all I rely on. I've found they pair best with a button-up as both pieces are just as breezy and comfortable.
There are plenty of more statement-making button-ups on the market too, it doesn't have to be a simple one.
Shop the Look
Next: 6 Wardrobe Updates We're Making This Winter
-
Suddenly, All The Row-Style Girls Are Breaking This Fashion RuleAnd you should, too.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFWLet's dive in.
-
This Sweater Will Never Go Out of Style—Here's How French Women Are Wearing It NowEffortless and chic? Oui!
-
I Know You're Stylish If You Tuck Your Jeans Into Boots Like These 5 Chic WomenDon't be scared.
-
New Yorkers Will Wear This Celeb-Concocted Ankle-Boot Outfit for the Next 3 MonthsSydney Sweeney just modeled it for us.
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears TodayA true fashion icon.
-
If You're Anti–Skinny Pants, This Is the Outfit That'll Make Baggy Trousers Look Current in 2025Hailey Bieber knows the way.
-
The Elegant Outfit Hailey and Zoë Pack for Every Destination, From London to NYCNo matter what.
