Athleisure and casual-chic have become increasingly popular as the nation continues to navigate more time spent at home — for work and pleasure — due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
But making those casual outfits look and feel chic can sometimes be tricky. In particular, throwing together a comfortable outfit can leave you looking more frumpy than polished. But with a little work and the right pieces, you can turn those casual outfits into chic, stylish looks.
Keep reading to learn four tips to help you do just that.
1. Clear Your Closet of Worn-Out Clothes
The first thing you need to do if you want to start creating chic, casual looks on a tight budget is to clear your closet of any unwanted pieces that feature holes, tears, stains, or pilling. Perhaps you think the damage isn’t noticeable or you simply love the piece. However, those flaws, no matter how minor, can bring down your entire outfit, leaving you looking frumpy and unkempt. Starting with this step will allow you to take stock of your wardrobe and replace any staple items you might have had to throw out.
2. Mix and Match Different Styles
Creating outfits that are both chic and casual doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. Instead, look through your closet to find new and creative ways to dress up or down the pieces you already own. For instance, a formal dress can become a chic outfit for drinks with friends. Add an oversized sweater, a tailored jacket and some casual shoes and you’ve got a polished look that doesn’t require any shopping. In the same vein, a pair of casual joggers can be made to look stylish with a lacy tank, while a basic white tee, and jeans take on a whole new look with the right jewelry.
3. Layer Up
Another great way to mix and match your wardrobe to create chic new looks is by layering. Garters and lingerie may be staples in the bedroom on their own. But when layered under a jacket, paired with a tank top, or peeking through a dress, they become a trendy, chic look that can totally change your outfit. There’s no shortage of ways to pair garters and other lingerie with your casual outfits. From strappy bodysuits to lacy bras, choose the styles you love and then mix and match your wardrobe staples to create great new looks.
4. Find the Right Accessories
The right accessories can take that thrown-together casual outfit to a whole new level. For example, a statement belt can make a plain tee and jeans feel polished, while layered necklaces add a chic finish to a basic slip dress. Moreover, statement necklaces can turn a casual T-shirt dress into an outfit that’s perfect for a dinner date. Plus, when you use accessories to dress up a casual look, you can still enjoy comfortable styles that make you feel as good as you look.
Creating Chic Casual Looks on a Budget
Taking your casual outfits to the next level — and making them look chic — is easier than you might think. After clearing your closet of worn-out staples, mix and match dressier clothes with casual pieces, layer to create drama, and accessorize to make your entire look feel polished. With these tips in mind, you’ll be creating casual, chic, and comfortable outfits with ease. And, you might just be surprised at how many great looks you already have just waiting in your closet.
