6 items you need to feel stylish, but not overdressed

Have these items in your closet to achieve *aesthetic* without doing too much 

At one point or another, we’ve all felt we have absolutely nothing to wear—let alone anything that feels stylish or elevated from our day-to-day look. While the constant stream of TikTok and Instagram style inspo, outfit ideas, and iconic celebrity or runway fashion moments can be inspiring and helpful, it can also be daunting. We don't always have (or feeling like attending) a glamorous dinner event each week that would merit trying out some runway fashion trends, and we don't always want to don our peak-glam outfit for the grocery store. To add the struggle, fast fashion has us rubbing our necks from the whiplash-pace of the trend cycle--buying the super trendy trends is not exactly fun or productive when we know it's not only unsustainable and harmful to the planet, but there's also a good chance we won't find the gumption or event to wear them to. 

Now, we should all wear exactly what we want--sans the fear of others thinking we're wacky for trying or overdressed for the setting (if I want to wear my skyscraper high Steve Madden boots to the gas station, that's my right). However, to be overdressed can be super uncomfortable. So how is one to achieve their style and aesthetic goals without walking the fashion-saturated streets of NYC each day or having elegant events each night?

To achieve peak style potential, look for these 6 key pieces that are easy to invest in—or even thrift, sustainable fashion, hello!—and can be worn in a variety of different ways for a variety of different styles. Time and time again, with these pieces, you’ll never have the feeling of have done too much…or having done nothing at all. 

1. Hats and scarves are a remarkably simple way to achieve a look with minimal effort. The options are endless, and make for an easy way to add contrast, interest, or surprise to any outfit! Go for a neon or neutral sporty cap for the walk to class, or a cowboy hat for festivals or outdoor concerts and events. For lingering cold temps, find a fuzzy bucket hat that will be sure to keep you cute and cozy through the long winter months. Or add a saucy, unique twist to your Sunday reset errands and grocery run with a pageboy cap (bonus points in achieving chic if you pair it with an oversized top layer like a denim jacket, bright trench, or long puffer). If you’re poolside or picnicking in the park this summer, add a scarf or bandana to stay sun safe and cottagecore. 

2. Chunky boots are a staple that can add a pinch of edginess and a subtler point of interest to almost every outfit. They can be *casually* worn stuffed into a pair of bootcut jeans with an oversized tee (for that nostalgic look we've all grown to love!), paired with a sun dress for contrast, or can even just add a point of interest to a staple outfit like a sweater and jeans or shorts and a tee. 

3. Easily found while thrifting, brightly colored or interestingly textured top layers will add depth and color to any outfit—and can be used to achieve a wide variety of styles! From almost grandma-ish knit T-shirt cardigans to preppy-sporty oversized button downs in bright colors, they are an easy way to accessorize and layer over an otherwise meh outfit. Go for a neon, patterned chunky knit button up, an oversized or mini denim or cargo vest, or a linen button down (Hello, coastal grandmother aesthetic!) to add interest to an outfit of all neutrals or just plain jeans and a long sleeve tee. 

4. Speaking of layering: underlayers are a must for adding effortless, peek-a-boo detail to outfits! A long sleeve mesh top can be worn over a bralette or under a skimpier going out top for a seamless balance between rocker and comfort. A long sleeve waffle shirt can be layered under baby tees for a nostalgic twist on an athletic aesthetic, or simply can add texture to an all neutral athleisure outfit. Finally, plain tees—long or short sleeve—can be put under spaghetti strap dresses for a nineties look or under cropped tanks for an easy seasonal transition! 

5. Platform sandals are all the rage for the warmer months this year. They can be as chunky and bulky as you’re comfortable with, and no matter what, will add a dose of contrast and surprise that can level up any outfit. Because they're low to the ground, they'll pack a punch of style, but in a subtler way. Go for earthy textures and colors to stay beachy and breezy, or grab a higher platformed black or white pair for edge and funkiness. And with so many TikTokers and style influencers pairing them with sporty tube socks or ruffled, frilly ankle socks, they can now be worn transitionally in the spring and fall as well!

6. And lastly a timeless pair I believe every wardrobe needs: the maxi/midi dress – tall boot combo. Live out your nineties (kinda) dream look in a way that screams style while still feeling understated and timeless. The variations and contrast of silhouette, texture, and vibes are endless, and will make an errands run or a meal out feel like you’re serving looks on the streets of a big city...but the comfort and versatility of the pieces makes it a classic that will always be here to stay. 

What makes these pieces so essential while curating a stylish, yet not overdone, wardrobe is their ability to pull the eye in interest and add texture or layers to the outfits we already know and love for our daily lives. These pieces are so versatile and can be worn in a variety of ways throughout all seasons and settings. You'll curate your own timeless style and unique aesthetic, all the while having kept seasonal versatility and fashion sustainability in mind. And no matter the outing, whether a glamorous event or just a quick run to the post office, sustainability and versatility are the must-have elements in every wardrobe--no matter the style.