I love a good outfit formula that you can adapt to any budget and personal style aesthetic. This one came together when I was getting dressed to go out to dinner in Sarasota a few weeks ago, and it’s definitely going to be on repeat this season!
AG denim jacket (S) (budget option) // FRAME t-shirt (XS) (budget option) // PAIGE Leenah trouser jeans (29) (budget option) // Vince Camuto sandals (8) (budget option) // similar belt // Tom Ford sunglasses (budget option) // Dragon Diffusion tote (budget option)
A white t-shirt and white jeans are the foundation of this effortlessly chic outfit formula. The only sandals I had with me with heels high enough to wear with these trouser jeans are these whiskey brown block heeled slingback sandals, so that’s how I decided to accent the monochromatic look with brown accessories.
To that, I added a belt to break up the look and highlight my waist, and then I topped it all off with a denim jacket.
STYLE TIP: I always belt under my jackets because I’m super short-waisted, and the belt isn’t really sitting on my natural waist. This helps to redefine the waistline where I want it to appear in the outfit, and it also helps to create the illusion of more curves. If you have a smaller waist that you want to highlight, belting over top the jacket can be a great way to do that.
This jacket is a splurge, for sure, but it’s such a nice piece made out of soft stretch denim with a straight, relaxed fit. It’s actually more of a shirt jacket, which is a little unexpected and sets it apart from a traditional trucker style denim jacket. Kohl’s has a more budget-friendly option in their LC Lauren Conrad collection.
These jeans are my favorites for dressier looks, and they’re on sale plus 25% off at Bloomingdale’s right now, which brings them down to $120 in cart. That’s a steal for PAIGE denim! I also found a similar style for under $100 at Nordstrom.
My white FRAME t-shirt is also part of the Bloomingdale’s sale, and it’s one that I wear all the time, but of course you can wear any white t-shirt that you like. I think the v-neck is nice because I like to keep my neckline open, but you can also do a crewneck or scoop neck, if you prefer.
Brown tortoiseshell sunglasses and a brown leather woven tote complete the look.
This tote has gone up quite a bit in price since I purchased mine last spring, but you can save 15% at Liberty London when you sign up for emails, and shipping is free over $200. Returns are free, as well. I absolutely love this bag, the workmanship is stunning, but I also found a similar style for under $100 at Amazon.
Finally, I wore understated mixed metal jewelry to enhance the outfit, but you could definitely amp up this look with coordinating statement earrings or a colorful necklace.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this outfit formula. Is it something you would wear? Or how would you adapt it to work for you?