The question I received last weekend for the blog was as follows: what do I wear to run errands that feels chic and put together, without resorting to denim? This is an incredibly seasonally relevant question - as the weather cools, we may be a bit more likely to leave the house less frequently, and a little more likely gravitate towards our most comfortable options when we do.
Today we’re going to talk about chic, casual outfits with one exception to the prompt: jeans aren’t necessarily the enemy here. I’ll explain -
Over the last few years, we have styled denim very casually. Think: western references, faded 505s (or 501s if you’re brave), Canadian tuxedos. By nature (and decidedly by choice), this changed our collective view on denim, and neatly stacked the category in the “casual” box. As we know, fashion is cyclical, and the second the masses get their hands on a trend it loses its sparkle to those who make rather than follow trends. This is why as light wash denim has become ubiquitous over the past few years, we’ve seen designers lean into darker, more structured takes (yet still with a strong Western feel). My theory is that we’ll continue to lean into the darker tones, but will also start seeing more formal applications of the fabric. So YES, the following post will cover primarily non-denim options for errand running, but I’ve snuck a few unexpected pieces in that was challenge your view of denim.
Sometimes the enemy isn’t the item or fabric itself, but our associations with it.
Lucky for me, this question allows me to write about something I wanted to touch on either way this week: the perfect base for an afternoon errands - the perfect white tee shirt. (Are you tired of hearing that yet?)
I’ve listened to a lot of people talk about the perfect white tee shirt, and the only thing I have learned is that none of it is useful at all. Everyone has different preferences, colors, body shapes, etc. What may be a perfect boxy off white to someone else makes me look like Shrek (I love Shrek but usually am not going for that). A tee shirt will probably be the first thing you put on under some slightly more fun layer and accessories to run errands (unless you and I run drastically different errands), so that is exactly where we’ll start.
I went into white tee shirt shopping knowing two things:
I wanted something that didn’t cling to my upper arms
I wanted something antique white, on the warm, cream side
I wanted something with a tight neckline
I started with this Grey-white, thicker and structured via Le Set option, which I wore for about a month before continuing my journey. When it arrived, I noticed it was quite fitted, quite thick (hard to put on without getting makeup all over it, so I chose to wear on days I didn’t wear makeup, which frankly, is most days), and more cool grey than warm cream. Don’t get me wrong - this is a great option I’ll continue to wear, but was left wanting more after only a few weeks.
Antique white, thin and delicate via The Great - I love this tee shirt - it’s light, the color is a perfect almost brown-tinged cream, the sleeves make my arms look toned, and the neckline isn’t as shlubby as many “loose fit” tee shirts on the market. It’s soft, worn in, and is the first plain tee shirt I have ever worn to flatter my skin tone.
Same color, same brand, narrow fit because why wouldn’t I buy two? This fit in perfect under sweaters and swing jackets - can be tucked into jeans with more structured (but still flattering) sleeves and collar. Another great (ha ha!) find.
Feel free to go vintage band tee here too - especially if you’re going for more eclectic a look.
Now that we have our tee shirt on let’s look at comfortable, practical bottoms. As you know if you’ve been reading for a while, I fancy myself a flowing pants girl. While opting for comfort, stick to natural fabrics like cashmere, silk, cotton, and linen.
If you haven’t had any of the La Ligne Colby pant Kool Aid, I hope you’re thirsty. These are THE most flattering, well-priced silk pant on the market. In a rainbow of colors and patterns, they are just as at home with a structured blouse and strappy heels as with a tee shirt and sneakers.
If you’re looking for a more streetwear-inspired tilt, their Alba pant has a little bit of edge in a wider fit.
For more structure, Matthew Bruch offers a nearly denim colored pair to challenge expectations.
Posse’s linen tapered pant is perfect for sunnier days with a bit more city edge than your classic linen pant.
Finally, because I said I would - a structured, dark wash jean from Frame.
Jewelry is the best way to dress up without really dressing up: if you’re a student of contrast like I am, there’s no better time to don all of your fun jewels than in a contrasting tee shirt and pant combination. Some items I have been eyeing lately below:
Floral signet ring - I love a signet with something unexpected. Perhaps you choose your own birth month, or the birth month of a partner, cherished guardian, or child.
Citrine cocktail ring - have you ever seen anything more lovely?
Amethyst ring if citrine isn’t your thing for a pop of green (or pink, white, or blue)
Cigar band with pear diamonds as a delicate but still unique foil to a chunky cocktail ring.
Gold chain bracelet to pair with a watch, a tennis bracelet, or on it’s own.
If you’re a silver gal I love Lara Sonmez - her designs are artistic and quirky in a timeless way.
On to outerwear - which is always more fun and practical, but especially so as we head into cooler months.
This funky denim jacket from Merlette defies our denim expectations. The color and shape makes it a bit more unique, but the reference is as classic city-chic as it gets.
A stunning cashmere silk coat by the Row that has me swooning - an oversized coat over our flowy base is always the epitome of casual grace.
A cozy structured sweater - I’m partial to structure around the turtle to prevent sloppiness - for days we don’t need a coat.
This wool pullover with a twist from Staud is a perfect piece - and will be ordered for yours truly the second Black Friday deals hit.
A two birds one scone scarf and sweater combo from Staud is just as at home over a sequined pencil skirt as it is over some pants and sneakers at the market.
This striped coat with some personality from Cawley Studio (thank you, Madeline!) is a fun way of incorporating some excitement and funk over an otherwise neutral outfit. One of my favorite ways to style a coat like this is with a funky vintage band tee shirt, pants with contrasting patterns (think: red plaid), and some fun ballet flats.
For our footwear, I always recommend a pair that is practical and comfortable. You’re doing enough on top - and the first thing that will get on your nerves as you bounce around town will be the comfort of your feet.
Venetian velvet flats from Cayumas are feminine, and promise immense comfort running from place to place.
My newest Adidas are perfect for fall - comfortable, textured, and unexpected. As you know, I love a textured sneaker for fall, so ditch your classic white trainers and opt for a pair in knit, suede, or leather.
Putting it all together
I typically opt for the polarized options: either entirely matching in tone and color, or funky and fun with contrasting patterns and colors. I’ve gone against protocol and provided a combination of these two below - just to show you how gentle and interchangeable this formula is. Pair this look with your favorite sunglasses and a giant bag (Bottega and The Row, of course).
All of a sudden, we’ve put on cozy pants, a tee shirt, a jacket or sweater, some shoes, and not much more - and yet we look a lot more styled than we did in a sweatshirt and jeans / athleisure. I would even suggest you’ll be the chicest girl in Whole Foods!
Thanks for reading xoxo