7 Surprising Ways to Build a Better Outfit

Breton stripes and a cognac-hued bag put a little New England class into your wardrobe. Add a flared floral skirt to look more like a lady, less like a sailor.

Kule top ($98)
Coach crossbody ($155)
Halogen skirt ($55)

Your casual-Friday uniform just got a whole lot cozier, thanks to the addition of a luxe, oversized scarf. Swap out your neckwear from season to season (think rich plaids for fall, silky florals for spring) all while keeping the backdrop sleek and basic. 

Zara blazer ($70)
Madewell jeans ($128)
Echo scarf ($41)

Your LBD and party heels have seen you through countless cocktails and endless desk-to-dinner events. Your denim jacket has accompanied you to every baseball game and brunch. Put them all together: It’s a sophisticated but cool trio.

Calvin Klein dress ($90)
Joie sandals ($158)
Levi’s denim jacket ($78)

God bless optical illusions in fashion: Pointy-toe pumps elongate your legs, while apencil skirt makes you look oh-so-Beyoncé. Add a bold graphic tee (you have permission to break out that Led Zeppelin World Tour 1971 number) and you’ve bagged yourself the coolest Saturday outfit ever.

Banana Republic skirt ($90)
MICHAEL Michael Kors shoes ($160)
NSF tee ($125)

Not too fussy, not too stiff, with the right amount of ease plus polish: Boy, do we love a good chambray shirt. It's also the perfect backdrop for a less-than-subtle necklace. Layer like a pro and top it off with a cropped sweater to create pretty proportions.

Anthropologie shirt ($88)
BaubleBar necklace ($68)
Ann Taylor sweater ($20)

Menswear is perennially chic (and so, so comfy), especially when it’s an oversized shirt topped off with a kicky hat. Keep the vacation vibe going with decidedly feminine breezy pants.

H&M shirt ($25)
Eric Javits hat ($250)
TopShop pants ($75)

Polka dots and a berry-stained pout always read as timeless (and nod to the Audrey Hepburn era of playful glamour). Make it modern with slim-cut overalls, and then keep the look out of Minnie Mouse territory with grown-up sunglasses and a neutral clutch.

Jones New York blouse ($59)
Nars lipstick ($32)
Whistles overalls ($230)