🌟Try swapping a structured blazer for a lightweight cardigan, or denim jacket. Look for fabrics like cotton, linen, chambray (lightweight denim) or knitwear. These have a much more relaxed vibe. I often wear tailored trousers with a t-shirt and a denim jacket.
🌟Play with layering: Layering can instantly transform the formality of an outfit. Add a casual T-shirt or a printed blouse underneath a blazer or suit jacket. You can also layer a sweater over a dress or pair a button-down shirt with a casual vest, cami or cardigan.
🌟Choose more casual footwear: Your shoes can casualise an outfit's overall formality. Swap out formal shoes for more casual options like sneakers, loafers, ballet flats, or sandals.
🌟Opt for relaxed silhouettes: Select clothing items with looser or with more relaxed shapes. Instead of fitted or structured pieces, go for flowy dresses, oversized tops, wide-leg pants, or boyfriend-style jeans. These styles tend to have a more casual and comfortable aesthetic. Remember though, being petite don’t go for too relaxed as the oversized shape could swamp you. It’s about proportion.
🌟Casual accessories: Accessories can play a crucial role in transforming an outfit. Add simple elements like a colourful scarf, a quirky necklace, a woven belt, or a floppy hat to give your look a more relaxed feel. Again bear in mind scale and proportion - don’t go too big!
Avoid overly formal or elaborate accessories.
🌟Mix casual and trendy elements into your outfit to dial down the formality. For example, pair a tailored blazer with distressed jeans or style a more formal skirt with a graphic T-shirt. Mixing formal and casual elements can create an exciting and balanced look. Think about the surprise element!
🌟Experiment with colour and patterns: Bold colours and playful patterns can instantly make an outfit feel more casual. Opt for vibrant hues or fun prints in your clothing choices. For eg., pair a brightly coloured blouse with neutral trousers or try a patterned skirt with a simple top.
🌟Consider the overall styling: Pay attention to how you style your hair, makeup, and accessories. Soft, natural-looking makeup and a more relaxed hairstyle can contribute to a more casual vibe.
Remember, the key is to strike a balance between formal and casual elements. Mix and match different pieces and experiment with different combinations to achieve your outfit's desired level of formality.
If in doubt, take a selfie, and then look at it an hour or so later - whatever combination you choose, feel comfortable!
If you would like to learn about colour and style and how I work read this
I hope this has given you some inspiration to look in your wardrobe and see what you can find to wear more often.
Chris x
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