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We’re looking to the likes of fashion stars Ellie Delphine and Alexis Foreman to figure out what casual clothes we need to buy, and outfits we can be inspired by in 2021
After a year of hibernation, we’ve lost all sense of what casual clothes actually are.
Given that we’ve been stuck in lounge and sportswear for this long, we thought it would be good to have a little refresher on what makes a fantastic casual outfit, taking cue from content creators (and stylish women) such as Brittany Bathgate and Monikh Dale.
These women, while totally nailing dressing up in Cecilie Bahnsen gowns, bold red lips and super high heels, have a particular knack for dressing down, something that is easier said than done. Classic pairings of fisherman sandals and cable knit jumpers are employed by Alexis Foreman, comfy loungewear is a go-to for Abisola Marvel, while Alyssa Coscarelli opts for 1970s jackets and groovy prints, Ellie Delphine pushes the limits of ‘casual’ in short shorts and minis and Stephanie Broek takes minimalism to the extreme in navy, white and black.
While jeans and trainers are obvious contenders for the best casual clothes (for good reason), we don’t think you should be sleeping on roomy shirt dresses, good quality sandals, sturdy bodysuits and chunky knits. While some items work for every budget, we think sometimes these casual staples are worth investing in, to ensure even on your most chill of days, you feel luxe.
From the right New Balance trainers to nab, to styling tricks that with give life to even the dullest pair of leggings, here are 35 casual outfits to inspire your next trip to the shop.
A post shared by Brittany Bathgate (@brittanybathgate)
The German shoe has timeless ugly shoe appeal, so much so they won’t stop selling out, so nab yours when you can.
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A post shared by alyssa coscarelli (@alyssainthecity)
Keep your jeans and T-shirt interesting with a patterned, statement coat. Buying a lightweight, but oversized coat also means you can wear it for multiple seasons, but with different layers underneath.
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A post shared by Abisola Omole (@abimarvel)
A cropped jumper is a fun way to play with proportions while keeping comfy. They also work well over dresses and skirt when picnic season rolls around.
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A post shared by Ellie (@slipintostyle)
Tights, a puffer jacket and boots mean no matter the chill, you can try short shorts. Leather, of faux leather, also makes it feel a little more grown up.
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A post shared by Monikh Dale (@monikh)
While we can only dream of owning The Row’s crossbody bag, we look to Arket’s nylon version for ultimate practical points that won’t break the bank.
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A post shared by Stephanie Broek (@stephaniebroek)
Size up in a merino or cashmere dress for ultimate cosy vibes. This also works for at-home loungewear.
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Quilted coats are everywhere at the moment, and for good reason – they look so cute, while still being very practical. They work best over denim jeans, but also adorable over a mini dress.
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To be worn all year round, risk the stains with cream jeans. Remember to hold back from washing your jeans too much, a sit in the freezer every now and then is most of the cleaning they need.
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A post shared by Stephanie Broek (@stephaniebroek)
Be it loafers and leggings, or a shirt with a sweater, mix formal pieces for loungewear for that louche look. We love how Broek has left her shirt poke out of the bottom of her sweater.
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A post shared by Monikh Dale (@monikh)
You can either take your own scissors to your straight-leg jeans, or buy pre-distressed. The plus-side to DIY-ing is that you can control their length.
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A post shared by Abisola Omole (@abimarvel)
Even the comfiest of loungewear looks more put together when all in one hue. Extra points for going all white like Marvel.
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Size up in wide-leg suit trousers, preferably palazzo, and in a natural fabric. These can take you from home to office (when the time comes).
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A post shared by Brittany Bathgate (@brittanybathgate)
Opt for conservative styles with chunky shoes and knits. We love a-line skirts in leather, wool or even a technical fabric.
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A post shared by Stephanie Broek (@stephaniebroek)
Oversized tailoring can be dressed down with trainers.
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A post shared by Ellie (@slipintostyle)
Big boots with big clompy treads toughen up even the sweetest ensemble.
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A post shared by alyssa coscarelli (@alyssainthecity)
A retro leather jacket elevates even the oldest of band T-shirts.
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A post shared by Monikh Dale (@monikh)
There should be nothing between you and your knitwear, not even a bra.
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A post shared by Abisola Omole (@abimarvel)
Part shirt, part jacket, the shacket is a casual clothes must.
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A post shared by Brittany Bathgate (@brittanybathgate)
Layer your luxe hoodie under a crisp trench coat.
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A post shared by alyssa coscarelli (@alyssainthecity)
Tennis skirts were everywhere last summer, and we predict this year will be no different.
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A post shared by Ellie (@slipintostyle)
The nerdier the better.
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A post shared by Monikh Dale (@monikh)
Tartan shirts give a relaxed feel to any ensemble (and you can often ‘borrow’ from any man in your life).
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A post shared by Stephanie Broek (@stephaniebroek)
Our favourite styling trick of the moment – the Diana tuck – means wellies and joggers are the chicest pairing about.
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A post shared by Brittany Bathgate (@brittanybathgate)
Knitted vests feel very fresh, despite being an old staple – go chunkier for more impact.
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A post shared by alyssa coscarelli (@alyssainthecity)
Shirt dresses in a natural fabric are perfect for layering.
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A post shared by Abisola Omole (@abimarvel)
Skate style trainers are the most elegant and versatile sneaker style.
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A post shared by Alexis Foreman (@alexisforeman)
Thank goodness the useful puffer is in style.
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A post shared by Monikh Dale (@monikh)
While loungewear separates are a go-to, we’re partial to the loungewear maxi dress made with quality construction, that can quickly be transformed into a casual outfit with boots and a jacket, and rolled up for a weekend away.
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A post shared by alyssa coscarelli (@alyssainthecity)
Perhaps one for the brave, bodysuits can take you from gym to coffee hangout.
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A post shared by Stephanie Broek (@stephaniebroek)
Long shorts are the easiest way to dress down leather.
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A post shared by Abisola Omole (@abimarvel)
At this point, why don’t you have a pair of cycling shorts? Super comfy and flattering, they are a great layering staple – but make sure they’re good quality to avoid pilling and transparency.
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A post shared by Alexis Foreman (@alexisforeman)
A traditional Aran knit (a forever piece) looks super cool when supersized.
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A post shared by Ellie (@slipintostyle)
Wellies have been given a chic makeover, and have become investment items to be worn everywhere from the streets of Paris to the muddy hills of England.
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A post shared by Alexis Foreman (@alexisforeman)
Forget the rules, pair your fisherman sandals with cotton socks.
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A post shared by Ellie (@slipintostyle)
You’ll look good enough to cuddle in a fleece coat.
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