Go-To Style Tips When In a Hurry
Ok, I admit it, I got into some bad habits in 2020. While it was liberating to finally break free from the rigidity of a 9-5 schedule and a gift at first to have clients wanting to connect more virtually, the absence of schedule, honestly, became a problem. Does this sound familiar? Wake up, brew some coffee, throw on a sweatshirt to take the kids to school. Wear a hat, sunglasses, no one will notice…right? Come home, sit back down at my desk (still no shower and still in sweats mind you) and become engrossed in what I am doing…until, you guessed it, it’s time to pick up the kids. Time for dinner. Then, it’s well, “why shower at 5 pm, I’m working out in the morning anyway right?” You get the picture.
What was freeing initially, became a burden. I’m a stylist. How did I get here? There is a body of research to support the belief that positive feelings about our outside impact how we feel about our inside too. I saw the research lived out in my own life. What I needed were a few go-to looks: looks that were easy, authentic, not contrived, and fun. I needed outfits that I could pull together to make sure I was ready for the day and still leveraging the freedom and more casual vibe that 2020 (and so far, 2021) have brought to our lives.
My “go-to” looks ended up including a few key elements: joggers or other comfy pant options, graphic tees, a few key shoe options, some jacket choices and simple makeup and jewelry looks.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Graphic Tees
I LOVE graphic tees like this one from EverEve (it’s even on sale!). I also love the creative style expression of a good graphic tee. You get to support local biz, make a statement about who you are, or even encourage someone with your t-shirt. A few other options include this Do It Afraid tee or this Kind Culture tee from a Darling x Poplinen collection. These all speak to me and who I am, and I LOVE wearing them.
Joggers
Try some joggers. There are so many options and price points but here’s why I love them: They can function like legging but you don’t have to worry about having your backside covered. Wear a tee or tank, a denim jacket, a color flat, and voila, an instant outfit. Black, gray, camo is all easy basics. Try Vuori, Lululemon, or Athleta for good options. I also love a patterned pair like this one. Don’t be nervous, a basic tee and a black jacket can really tone down the pattern. I found my wide-leg velvet pants (pictured) on a super sale recently for $9. No brainer. Velvet always works IMO…right?
Jacket or Sweater
A third piece (jacket or sweater) adds some creativity and rounds out the look. In my world, a denim jacket is something that should be in everyone’s closet. This unique faded wash blend is perfect to throw on over a patterned tee. This one makes a great choice to wear with destructed denim OR dress pants when that time comes around again. As a bonus, there are great deals galore to be had. Cardigans like this one are an example of something comfy, contemporary that would be amazing paired with a t-shirt, denim shirt, or tank. The looser sleeves mean wearing whatever you want underneath without any bunching.
Sneakers
I’ve become a bit of a sneaker gal. They go with jeans, joggers, and even skirts. I’m a huge fan of these and while that particular style is sold out, there are TONS of P448 designs out there and the comfort cannot be beaten. Size up a ½ size. Totally worth it if you find a deal. I also love a colored flat and a great bootie to round out shoe options. If you’re looking for my recommendations, these Marc Fisher Yilda Booties or Vince Cyder Flats are two of my favorites.
Jeans
Jeans can be a great option for an easy wardrobe BUT the choices are overwhelming! A stylist can help you whittle down what’s right for you based on fit, body shape, and budget. Good American, Mother, and Cabi are denim brands I’m loving right now, and actually, a good old-fashioned pair of Levi’s made it into my closet over the holidays.
Jewelry
Finally, jewelry. I’m stacking bracelets and necklaces like crazy and love Gorjana, Able, and Stella and Dot to name a few. I keep things light and fun and it’s amazing how much of a difference swapping out earrings or my favorite specs can make! I wear readers and have about 5 pairs of Peepers on rotation.
Make-up
For make-up, I like to keep things simple. Foundation, highlighter, a simple lip, and mascara are all I need most days. Less than 5 minutes and ….done and out the door! The result? I like where I am right now. I look and feel put together and more like myself. My clients are loving a more casual vibe and it’s just working. I’ll circle back to more formal looks someday I am sure and I do love a show-stopping dress and leather jacket when it’s appropriate…or for a trip down the aisles of Target.
Own Your Style,
Christina
About the Author
Christina Davis is the founder of Outside-In Consulting. She is an Iowa captive, a mom of two budding fashionistas, a wife, and a personal stylist.
As a stylist + consultant, she has watched the power and impact that external changes have on the inside for her clients. She has witnessed how small changes and styling tips build up a client’s confidence enough to enable them to reclaim who they are.
Along the way, she also discovered the power of authenticity. She discovered the power of showing up in the world not as who others expect you to be but as who you are. She recognized her passion for helping women understand how beautiful they are.
