I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to Wear

We've all been there—running late and frazzled with the idea of trying to find something to wear. It's on those days when I take a deep breath and reach for two tried-and-true pieces that I know will get me out the door in style no matter the season: a button-down shirt and a pair of jeans. Throw on these classic basics along with occasion-appropriate shoes, a bag, and outerwear and you're good to go in 10 minutes or less.
To get you prepared for those future rushed mornings, I've rounded up seven easy looks that show exactly how to pull off the no-brainer outfit formula. I highly recommend making a mental note of each chic outfit idea and stocking up your closet with the pieces that speak to you most in completing the look. This season, it will be all about adding ballet flats, kitten heels, or loafers alongside timeless bags. Scroll on to study up on the inspiring button-down-shirt and-denim ensembles and to shop each look.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on Wholesale Replica Bag trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.
-
In Paris, L.A., and London, Basic White Tees Are Getting Sidelined In Favor of This Cooler Alt
We'll always love you, but it's not your turn right now.
-
Cooler Than a White Button-Down: This Specific Shirt Color Is the Key to Looking Chic This Fall
It's all over the streets and the spring/summer 2026 runways.
-
This Simple Fashion-Person Approved Layering Technique Changed the Way I Wear My Basics
Effortlessly cool.
-
Goodbye, Bubble Shorts—Everyone Everywhere Is Wearing This "Dated" Pant Trend Instead
Here's how It girls in New York, London, Copenhagen, and more are styling them in 2025.
-
Spotted on Kendall and Hailey: The Pant Color Trend People Are Swapping Blue Jeans For
It girls with good taste know best.
-
I'm Not Ready to Say Goodbye to Nantucket Summer Vibes—7 Outfit Ideas to Keep It Alive Through Fall
Nautically chic.
-
Cool It On the Skinny Jeans—Chic People Are Wearing These 6 Fall Denim Trends Instead
Are you taking notes?
-
Jeans, Flats, Jackets, and Sweaters—The Best of the Best In Each Category For Fall
Meet your new hero pieces.