Before we dive into some great outfits I'm spotting in Europe, a quick side note to say that I do think we put way too much emphasis on appearing effortless. The whole, “Oh, this? Just something I threw on…” doesn't have to be the sole aim of our personal style. We love an intentional outfit! It’s cool to try! That being said, it’s also nice—and necessary, honestly—to have some go-to looks in your closet that require very little brain energy. The combos that you can rely on to work on those days (weeks, news cycles, etc.) when you just simply cannot.
These six looks all fall into that category: good jeans, practical boots, and loafers, cool coats,and cozy knits. A couple of skirts for good measure. They’re ready for you to throw on when you’re running late, a bit hungover, or just generally exhausted with *waves hands at the state of things.* They're inspired by the easy style I witnessed in Paris last week as chic locals went about their business in some standard drizzly Parisian weather. Hopefully these outfit formulas will get you out of a sartorial jam at some point this season—feel free to file them away, take a deep breath, and wear them as needed.
The way you could be wearing this tee and sweater to work from home all day, and then 10 minutes before you realize you have to leave for dinner after losing track of time, just switch out your comfy pants for this chic slip skirt and boots. And no one would know.
Head-to-toe black outfits are always a safe place to land when you're stuck on an outfit. A little leather or vegan leather is good to mix up the textures (and avoid that sometimes-weird black-on-black thing that can happen)—and if you're aiming to take things up a notch, a great belt makes all the difference.
This is proof that a great coat is all you need to make even your comfiest outfit feel intentional. Everything about this is so practical and perfect to schlep around town in—from the lightweight dad sneakers and cozy sweatshirt to the slouchy crossbody bag.
On the flip side, if black is not your thing, there are plenty of other ways to go. Loafers, ribbed wool tights, and a navy peacoat are giving chic school-uniform energy. And don't worry about the gray, navy, and browns feeling like a mishmash of neutrals—I promise it all works, and we're not here to overthink it.
A punchy red knit is still my favorite shortcut to a winter outfit that's making a point. The color trend just won't quit. In fact, we're gearing up to see even more red in 2025.
The barn coat trend is alive and well in Paris, giving people the appearance of having just hopped off the Eurostar from London for the weekend. Again, good jeans, more loafers, and another great coat you can reach for blindfolded to create a casual yet polished look that feels gently on-trend.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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