The word “elegant” often conjures up images of flowing gowns, brilliant jewelry, and stilettos, but what if you want to look and feel elegant every day, not just on special occasions?
Dressing up is good for your Instagram feed, but it’s also good for the soul. Research shows that “everyday exuberance” — dressing up to complete everyday tasks — may help you feel more in tune with yourself and feel more in control of your happiness no matter what’s happening around you.
The good news? Dressing up to go to work, school, the park, or wherever else you’re headed is simple. Let’s explore nine elegant wardrobe pieces for your day-to-day life.
1. A Blazer
No elegant wardrobe is complete without a stunning blazer. Blazers are ideal for business casual environments where solid-colored blouses and dark jeans reign. Dress them up with slacks or pencil skirts and a button-down shirt for a classy look.
Want to take your blazer ensemble up a notch? Wear a pointed-toe, knee-high boot with a high heel. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your outfit look more elegant, especially if you’re wearing ladies’ denim pants. Wear your favorite layering tops with your blazer for the ultimate look of suaveness and simplicity. Neck tanks, crew shirts, bodysuits, and sheer lace tops can all shine beneath a blazer.
2. A Sweater Dress
Another simple way to make a casual outfit look more stylish is a maxi or midi sweater dress. These beauties will keep you feeling comfy and looking fashionable all day long. Class up your sweater dress with some high-end-looking shades, gold earrings, a gold necklace, and some knee-high boots. Go with a midi dress if you’re looking for a more tailored look, and choose the maxi route for a relaxed vibe. Either way, get ready to draw stares and double-takes wherever you make an appearance.
3. A Slip Skirt
Looking for an easy way to turn your workplace hallway into your new runway? Throw on a slip skirt. These figure-flattering silk skirts are the perfect alternative to jeans when you want a flowy look for spring or summer. These luxurious-looking, eye-catching skirts work well with sweaters, button-downs, t-shirts, and tank tops. They’re versatile enough to work with a wide variety of shoe options, ranging from flats to tennis shoes, sandals, heels, and lug-sole boots.
4. A Basic T-Shirt
Want to know a secret? T-shirts can be elegant, too. Choose a t-shirt with a classy design and message from your favorite religious clothing store. Pair your t-shirt with a bold necklace to elevate your look. Match your t-shirt color with your nail polish or lipstick color for an even more upgraded appearance. Adding a satin duster over your t-shirt will also give you a more upscale look that will take you from the meeting room to the dance floor.
5. A Belted Jacket
You can never go wrong with a belted jacket if you’re going for a dignified look. A lengthy camel-colored one will especially make any outfit look more distinguished. Wear your belted coat with some sleek jeans and your favorite ensemble-upgrading accessories for a captivating appearance. Introduce bling with earrings and bracelets, add texture with a scarf, and make your outfit shine even more with a designer handbag.
6. A Pleated Skirt
Are you searching for a way to elevate your t-shirts, hoodies, or sweaters? Wear a pleated skirt. These skirts feature permanent folds that can instantly add visual interest to your outfit. The skirts also look great with sweaters and chic blouses. Go with a black, white, or beige skirt for a neutral look, or choose a bright-colored skirt with an outstanding pattern for something livelier. Blazers, heels, or flat shoes with pointed toes will further enhance your ensemble.
7. A Pair of Cap-Toe Pumps
Invest in these shoes if you don’t currently have them. These wardrobe staples work well with jeans and dressy blouses for effortlessly elegant casual ensembles. With their short heels, they’re modest enough for the workplace and comfortable enough to wear from dawn to dinner.
8. A Pair of Ankle Boots
Every woman deserves to have an ankle boot in her closet. These boots are an ideal way to make an elegant statement no matter where you’re going. Wear these shoes with cropped jeans (jeans that are longer than shorts but shorter than traditional jeans) for a sensational look that will make the boots the star of the show. Going for a relaxed feel? Wear cuffed jeans (jeans whose bottoms are rolled) with these boots. Choose colorful boots versus black or brown boots to make your outfit blossom. The best shirts to wear with ankle boots range from oversized sweaters in the fall to t-shirts in the spring. Mini dresses and skater dresses are the perfect matches for your favorite boots, too!
9. A Pair of Velvet Slacks
Give your outfit a velvety twist with the perfect pair of velvet slacks, especially when the weather is cold. These cozy pants have a soft, soothing texture your skin will love. They also complement various types of clothing and will help you exude a sense of royalty. Velvet pants won’t shed and effectively absorb moisture to keep you comfortable.
What should you wear with velvet pants? Add some minimalist earrings and mules to the mix. Mules are especially popular for being breathable, modern, and lightweight. They’re the perfect way to balance out your formal-looking velvet pants for a stylish look on casual days.
Upgrade Your Wardrobe With Elegant Pieces Today
Looking elegant is effortless in any season. Pair a sleek blazer with jeans and beautiful layering tops for an unforgettable look. Sweater dresses, slip skirts, and t-shirts featuring encouraging messages can also give you an elegant touch. Don’t forget to add belted jackets, pleated skirts, and cap top pumps to your wardrobe.
Consider all of the above-listed clothing, shoe, and accessory combinations as you seek to craft elegant ensembles for your day-to-day. The right pieces will instantly make you feel like a queen who reigns the boardroom, the bedroom, and any other place your day takes you.
