Style | Tips and Tricks to Dressing Effortlessly Chic

This post was a collaboration of ideas written by Ellen Svardh, Anjali Chatterjee, Beth Anderson, and Clara Anderson.

My roommate could look good in a trash bag. She rolls out of bed, puts on a pair of my slippers and suddenly there are five boys with flowers standing outside our door. If you know someone like my roommate, you know how easy it is to be jealous of her effortless perfection.

Anyone who has tried the “I woke up like this” style knows that it’s just not as easy as Beyoncé makes it look. Choosing, coordinating, and accessorizing outfits every day can be time-consuming, and sometimes it sounds tempting to wear pajamas to work rather than to look your best. By living with someone who I’ve yet to see look anything less than runway-ready, I’ve learned a few things I hadn’t considered about style, and they’re easier than you might think. Although I can’t promise you any boys with flowers, here’s how to make every day a stylish one- without any effort.

Be bold. Be adventurous, but most importantly, be confident. Having unsure posture or “help me” written on your face can distract from even the most amazing outfit. It can be easy to compare yourself to others and become self-conscious of what you’re wearing, but in that case, I remember my favorite phrase my mother always told me: “fake it til’ you make it”.

It’s not about what you’re wearing, but how you’re wearing it. Pulling your shoulders back and adding a smile will convince everyone you’re on top of your game, even on days you feel like you aren’t.

Here are 3 ways to dress effortlessly chic every day.

1. Spice up your everyday outfits by wearing different layers.

This is especially helpful if you’re indecisive about what to wear, and comes in handy at any time of year.
In the chilly months, or if you work in an office where the too old thermostat decides its own temperature, layering a leather or jean jacket over your favorite sweater can create an edgy look that’s stylish and comfortable. Also, try adding a long-sleeved plaid, striped, or polka dot shirt under a solid colored sweater. Roll the sleeves of the shirt up once over the sweater for a splash of pattern around your wrists. Even wearing a light jacket under a heavy winter coat keeps you both warm and looking fabulous, but make sure the layer underneath isn’t way bigger than the one on top, or you could end up looking like that scene in A Christmas Story (“I can’t move my arms!”).

During the summer, you can continue to layer your outfits. Wearing a bandeau or a lace bralette under your tops is both eye-catching and trendy. This does not have to be revealing or inappropriate! For example, high-necked or halter-style bandeaus can spice up a normal t-shirt and are super comfortable and easy.

2. Wear statement pieces that you absolutely love.

I am a huge fan of investing in a bold statement piece that can make any ordinary outfit shine. These pieces are a huge lifesaver when you are in a rush! Throwing on a brightly colored jacket, funky hat, or even a bold necklace can make such a difference in your look. If you love to wear it, others will love to see you in it. These may be the pieces that you look at in the clothing store, yet shy away from because you don’t think you can pull them off. Trust me you can!

If you love it and it makes you feel good, you will own it. Not only will you look and feel confident, it will transform your outfit as well. Adding one eccentric piece to your everyday capsule wardrobe can be an interesting way to break out of a style rut.

3. Don’t shy away from dressing monochromatically!

Wearing outfits of all one color is such a chic look that most people are afraid of trying. All white outfits during the summer are so polished, clean, and crisp. Just watch where you sit and carry a Tide Stain Stick if you like to eat cream filled donuts like me. And truly nothing is chicer than an all black outfit- a color flattering for all skin tones and body types. This not only will make you look good but save you tons of time while you are getting dressed! Rather than wasting time picking out different tops and bottoms that match each other, just choose one color and go for it.

These are my favorite three simple tricks I learned from my roommate who looks effortlessly chic, fashionable, and confident every single day. Though these outfits don’t take much time or effort to create, they will instantly breathe new life into your daily style. Once you figure out which outfits work best for you, these can become your go-to outfits. You will be looking effortlessly chic without putting in any effort at all. You’ll be sure to turn heads without having to wear a trash bag.

P.S. Have you joined my mom’s private Facebook group? You can join right here!

Check out my mom’s ebook “How to Curate and Cultivate Your Dream Wardrobe” to learn more about building your perfect closet. Her 168 YEAR-ROUND OUTFITS EBOOK will show you how to start a basic wardrobe with essential classic pieces to make year-round outfits.

XO

Clara