The older I've gotten, the more casual my style has become. This, however, isn't something I view as a bad thing. Instead, I find it empowering. Gone are the days of feeling the need to hide myself behind more statement outfits. Now, at the ripe age of 34 and feeling more comfortable in my own skin than I ever have, I've found there's beauty to be had in casual outfits that I never fully appreciated before.
Of course, I still want to look classic and chic, but these attributes aren't tethered to high heels and fanciful dresses. On the contrary, I'd argue the most classic looks are those that rely on more refined, uncontrived items which, depending on the styling, can work casually or formally. It's something you understand more acutely with trial and error—styling ensembles without worrying about whether they "work" or not and getting a feel for what you like in the process. However, if time is short, I've got you.
I went on the hunt for some classic casual outfits to inspire my own looks this season—below are 11 I immediately wanted to copy, and I have a feeling you'll want to, too. Utilising what many of us would call wardrobe "staples" such as blazers, jeans, Oxford shirts, T-shirts and simple skirts, scroll on to see them.
11 CLASSIC CASUAL OUTFITS TO TRY:
1. STRIPED TOP + WIDE-LEG JEANS + BOOTS
Style Notes: Ultra-wide denim burst back onto the scene a few seasons ago and are sticking around for AW24, too. Opt for a simple top to keep things understated and complete the look with a pair of burgundy boots, like Marianne.
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Exactly what I want to wear right now.
Reformation denim is a fashion editor favourite.
2. TWEED JACKET + JEANS + MARY JANES
Style Notes: Jeans are at the heart of many a great casual outfit. Lately my favourite way to style them has been with classy pieces—namely a tweed jacket and mary jane shoes, much like Dewett's ensemble above.
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Honestly, this could be designer.
Sorry skinnies, wide-leg jeans are winning out this season.
Trés chic, non?
3. TRENCH COAT + TEE + WHITE SKIRT
Style Notes: Skirts are enjoying a peak in popularity right now, featuring regularly in the casual outfits of my favourite social media dressers. This outfit is hooked on my current go-to skirt, the white midi, which is made all the more low-key with the addition of a jersey tee and trench coat.
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Everyone should have a camel trench in their wardrobe.
A true wardrobe staple.
An all-white fit is so elegant—even in the cooler months.
4. KNITTED VEST + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS + CLOGS
Style Notes: The beauty of wide-leg trousers is that they can be dressed up or down on a whim, the latter of which is perfectly demonstrated here with the addition of a knitted vest and suede clogs. Comfortable and cool? Sign me up.
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You'll be grateful for this layer over the coming months.
How cosy do these look?
5. DENIM SHIRT + JEANS
Style Notes: Double denim isn't a new trend but, after appearing on the runways of the likes of Celine, Saint Laurent and Chloé, this is a look we're going to see a whole lot more of this season. Handily, it just so happens to be classic and casual, meaning the combination works for a variety of occasions.
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Just the right amount of retro detailing.
Comfy enough for lounging.
Such a great high street find!
6. LEATHER JACKET + TEE + MAXI SKIRT
Style Notes: When it comes to casual outfits, no jacket style is quite as iconic nor can loan itself to as broad a variety of looks as the leather biker. Personally I think black styles look their best paired with more of just that—black. Try a fluid maxi skirt for a pairing that's so current-looking.
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A good biker never goes out of style.
A much cooler silhouette than bodycon.
I'd wear this for evenings too.
7. BLAZER + JEANS + TRAINERS
Style Notes: When I want to elevate an outfit, a blazer is the first thing I reach for. Green is a core colour trend this season—try wearing it by way of tailoring, then offset with jeans and chunky trainers for the ultimate high/low balance.
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Chic blazers don't have to be black.
The perfect length for showcasing your shoes.
Still a firm favourite.
8. CARDIGAN + WHITE JEANS + SLINGBACKS
Style Notes: Denim goes beyond blue jeans—ecru pairs can work just as well in casual outfits and, dare I say, might even look more elegant. I love this relaxed combination featuring a roomy beige cardigan and basket bag.
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Is it too early to start thinking about autumn?
The colour and fit are 10/10.
A chic day-to-night shoe.
9. JUMPER + MATCHING SKIRT + KNEE BOOTS
Style Notes: I feel like I become more time-poor by the day, so I'm always on the lookout for easy yet elegant outfits I can assemble in a couple of minutes. This look definitely falls into that category. Let a knitted skirt set do the hard work for you; all you need to consider is what shoe to wear it with.
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Bretons are back (if they ever left).
This entire outfit gets high marks from me.
10. RELAXED SUITING + WHITE TEE
Style Notes: I tend to steer clear from suits on casual days, but I've found that wearing a T-shirt with your tailoring is an easy way to dress it down. Add a pair of sleek boots and a roomy tote and you're ready for a day of shopping and coffee dates.
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The dream blazer situ.
A minimalist must-have.
Mango makes some of the best suits on the high street.
11. OXFORD SHIRT + DENIM SKIRT + BELT
Style Notes: I recently ordered a simple black mini-skirt and was immediately struck by how much I loved wearing it. My go-to involves a slouchy jumper and knee-high boots, much like Nnenna's.
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This knit will go with everything.
Don't underestimate the power of a black mini.
*Chef's kiss*
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
