Basic. The word often gets a bit of a bad rep, but I beg to differ. Sometimes, basic really is better, and that’s exactly what I’m going to show you today.
The fashion industry is flooded with so many different trends every season. While I love admiring the runway looks and street style stars by taking my own spin on these trends, incorporating it in to my personal style, there really is nothing more classic and timeless than a basic t-shirt and jeans combo. If you want to be able to rock this simple ensemble, read on to see my 4 tips on how to be effortlessly laidback but still look like you walked out of an editorial!
1. Opt for Distressed Denim
Bringing things back to the basics starts with none other than your classic pair of jeans! As a California girl, I have so many pairs of jeans in my wardrobe, but for an effortlessly chic yet stylish look, there’s nothing more fitting than distressed denim. Whether you opt for DIY distressed denim or grab a pair from your favorite retailer, slightly ripped jeans give off a rugged, laidback vibe that’s effortless yet chic.
For added outfit points, I also opted for a pair of high-waisted boyfriend jeans, since the higher waist can help to elongate the legs for a leaner, slimmer, and taller silhouette! Though jeans are such a basic wardrobe staple, there are ways you can elevate this timeless number by paying attention to the cut of the denim, as well as the fabric, don’t you agree?
2. Choose Detailed, Cropped Tees
Of course, when talking about your basic t-shirt and jeans combo, you really can’t forget about your tee, right? Most of the major retailers these days focus on intricate blouses and sexy bodysuits, but I think it’s important to not forget about t-shirts. Though they may seem “plain” and “basic,” t-shirts can actually be quite chic and sophisticated too!
For this outfit, I opted for a simple cropped black tee, with a little embellished tucked-over knot at the hem. With a cropped fit, tees are instantly elevated, giving off a more sophisticated and put-together vibe. And of course, with attention to detail, like this little knot at the hem, this outfit is given another subtle element that sets it apart from just another regular t-shirt, by staying true to its basic composition without being over-the-top at all.
3. Don’t Forget Your Heels
While it may be easy to turn to sneakers or flats to complete this basic ensemble, heels are a much better choice because it helps to elevate the entire outfit for such a sophisticated and put-together look!
For this outfit, since my jeans are a looser boyfriend fit, I wanted to streamline the look and add some structure to the overall ensemble with pointed-toe heels. Visually, this not only gives the illusion of elongated legs, it also adds some height, giving off a classy yet effortless vibe, don’t you think?
4. Finish Off with Classic and Timeless Accessories
And of course, don’t forget to finish off with classic and timeless accessories! I never leave the house without earrings and a ring on my finger, so for a basic look like this, I opted for classic pearl studs and a sterling silver ring. To wrap up the whole look, I opted for my favorite YSL chain wallet in ivory since it matches this neutral color scheme perfectly, and the gold chain really adds just the right touch of regal, classiness to the whole ensemble!
On Me
Zara Cropped Knotted Hem T-Shirt in Black
Hollister Destroyed Boyfriend Jeans in Medium Wash
Bershka Faux Patent Leather Slingback Shoes in White
YSL Monogram Saint Laurent Chain Wallet in Powder Grain de Poudre Textured Mateaasse Leather
How do you usually style a basic t-shirt and jeans combo? Are you a fan of basic styles like this? Or are trends more your thing? Let me know in the comments because I always love hearing from all of you!
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Such a great outfit 🙂 This zara top looks really nice, I need to find a top in similar style since it’s simple but a bit extra at the same time 🙂
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This top was sooo affordable too ❤ 🙂 Thanks babe!
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Love love this look! =)
-mainou
http://www.looksbymc.com
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Those jeans look super cute on you and I am such a fan of that YSL bag!
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Girl I love those jeans and the way you styled this whole look! So chic! xo
Tasfia
http://www.styleandlatte.com
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These are all great tips and I love that unexpected tee. It’s basic but also has a little “twist” (no pun intended). I am a fan of ripped jeans so I love the mixed combo of edgy and then the girlie heels. xoxo, Christine
http://dailykongfidence.com/
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Certainly a fan of basic styles. they are classics and you can do so much mix and matching them. Thanks for sharing – you look very chic in yours and I love those jeans!!
Simone xoxo
http://www.yourstylearchitect.blogspot.com
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You are such a beautiful girl!
x Lisa | lisaautumn.com
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I like layering (denim jacket, cardigan, kimono, shirt) for such basic looks
https://leraseyo.blogspot.com
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yes, they’re the perfect layering pieces, aren’t they? ❤
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These are good tips! I love the heels styled with the look.
http://sugarcoatedbears.blogspot.com/
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Look so beautiful .
http://www.russellandbromley.cc
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Thanks! ❤ 🙂
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I couldn’t agree more with you. Basic is indeed better and classic in my opinion. You look effortlessly chic.
https://www.missymayification.co.uk
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Thanks babe ❤ 🙂 And yesss, I love basics!
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I’ve recently fallen in love with a basic shirt and jeans combo. The addition of heels are always a good idea. Maybe pair with a statement jacket / coat would be a good addition.
http://www.rosegoldrhyme.com
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Yes! I totally agree with you on the heels. They can completely transform the overall “mood” of an outfit. Also, I love your bag! 🙂
http://jessysfashionbook.com
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Thanks babe ❤ 🙂 Glad you liked this outfit!
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Hi Elizabeth,
Those distressed jeans and that YSL bag is so beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing with us the t-shir and jeans combo — they will never go out of style and the pop of a statement piece is so alluring!
Cindy
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So happy you liked this outfit ❤
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The street style is very interesting. A classic combination
https://tiateilli.com/
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Thanks babe ❤ 🙂
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those shoes perfectly elevate your look!
XO Sahra
Que Sera Sahra
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Yes, I can’t get enough of them! ❤ 🙂
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