Same base, five different outfits. And this is only scratching the surface of what I could pull together. But it’s proof that when you have a good foundation to start with, the rest comes pretty easily. Even if it is just a variation on what you wore the day before.
It’s no secret that I heavily rely on my black trousers – both cropped and full length – as a starting point for many of my outfits. Paired with a classic white tee, it’s becomes a blank canvas for the mood I’m in. Sometimes, that might be the end point, but the third piece always feels like adding on the special sauce that ties everything in together.
I read once that the reason why French fashion editors always look tres chic, is because they set up seven go-to outfits for the season. All of their looks are variations on this theme. A bit of a style recipe that gets changed up depending on the occasion. Without really thinking about it, this is essentially how I’ve come to approach my own wardrobe. Having a solid base to work with removes part of the guesswork of getting dressed. One less decision to make, and when you feel comfortable in the clothing you’re in, that gets expressed outwardly too. It sets up the mood for the day ahead, which is why I put so much value on identifying the right clothing, style recipes or foundations.
So let’s break down these five looks, all centred around a classic tee from UNIQLO (wearing size S), and my favourite Mo&Co trousers (wearing size M). Jewellery worn throughout are both from Monica Vinader, you can find the earrings HERE and the necklace HERE.
OUTFIT 1 | UNIQLO U tee (size S); Mo&Co trousers (size M); Vaneli two tone pumps (usual size US9); OSOI bag (10% off with mademoiselle2023)
OUTFIT 2 | UNIQLO U tee (size S); Mo&Co trousers (size M); Goelia striped cardigan (size M – 25% off with JAMIE25); Aeyde Maryjanes (usual size EU40 – affordable alternative here); Chanel bag
A little bit The Row inspired, a little bit French. I’ve opted to continue that black and white theme, playing on the core element of contrast. I think here you can see how you can add elements of softness with your outerwear piece, and formality with the shoes that you choose. Both exuding something of a feminine sensibility here with their ballerina like appearance.
OUTFIT 3 | UNIQLO U tee (size S); Mo&Co trousers (size M); La Saison Sportive sweater (size S – 15% off with Mademoiselle15); Tibi sandals (old); OLEADA bag (15% off with Jamie15)
OUTFIT 4 | UNIQLO U tee (size S); Mo&Co trousers (size M); Marle blazer (size NZ8); Sezane loafers (usual size UK7/US9); Cafune bag
Here you can see the difference between casual styling, and wanting to appear a little more done up. Both outfits feature soft, relaxed silhouettes, but it’s the nature of the garment that has the transformative impact (along with shoes!). The knit is oversized and slouchy, exudes ease, and just says, easy weekend chilling out. Especially when worn with sandals (which btw, isn’t sandals and sweater season THE best?!). With the blazer, there’s an air of formality. The type of jacket says, I want to be refined, but the soft fabrication adds beautiful drape and doesn’t feel uptight at all.
OUTFIT 5 | UNIQLO U tee (size S); Mo&Co trousers (size M); Filippa K knitted bomber (size S); Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 sneakers; Acne Studios mini musubi bag
Final outfit might be my personal favourite. Worn with an oversized knitted bomber and sneakers, it’s another casual option. This time, mixing styles. Black trousers tend to have a slightly more dressed up nature to them, which is counterbalanced by “sandwiching” it with some sporty elements – the bomber, and the fresh white sneakers. Toned down, and feels well balanced.
