Casual style has always been harder for me to nail than dressing up to go out or for a corporate office. I know that seems bizarre. Shouldn’t ‘dressing down’ be easy for any and everyone? Yes and no. Dressing down in jeans and a sweater can take away your chances to add flair and style to the look. More importantly, it also has the potential to come across as sloppy and unconcerned with your appearance, which can send the wrong message to the world at large. Have you ever noticed that you are treated with more respect in public when you are put together? I have. Sales people are more engaged with me in stores, as are hairstylists, restaurant staff, and flight attendants. I get more smiles or nods from people I make eye contact with, and I’ve even noticed people more willing to move out of the way voluntarily if we need to pass each other on the sidewalk. Going in that extra 25% on your casual appearance can actually make elements of your personal, outside-of-the-office life more pleasant.
So how do you do that?? I say it’s all in the details. Definitely go for the comfy sweater and jeans, but look for these items with a little something special to them – either in color, cut or closure. For example, this sweater I’m wearing here is a very-traditionally cut pullover, but the lace-up detail that sews it together takes it up a notch. You could also look for tops with asymmetrical hems, bell-cut sleeves, a wide neckline, a cool set of buttons up the back or a rich jewel tone that complements your eyes. These little ‘somethings’ signal an attention to detail and that you cared enough to choose a unique item.
Another way I’m working on adding a little oomph to my casual style is through accessories – like a bright necklace, a well-cut hat or even some shoes in a funky print. If you truly just want to put on a black turtleneck and black jeans, then use that as your dark canvas to play your accessories against! Obviously in these pics, I’ve gone all in on each of my suggestions, but that is because I’m a more-is-more kinda gal. You do you, Dear Reader, and give one of these ideas a try the next time you go casual.
And finally, if you’re looking for ideas on where to find casual options with unique details, I received this beautiful sweater via TOBI , an online boutique based out of LA with fantastic styles and a 50% discount off your first purchase. Head to www.tobi.com to check them out!
Sweater: TOBI (c/o) // Jeans: Joe’s Jeans // Boots: LOFT // Hat: Giovannio // Sunglasses: Chloe
P.S. Have you read my original dress 25% better post, or my recent casual workplace post?
Thank you so much to TOBI for sponsoring this post by supplying me with clothing. All opinions are 100% my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Belle Meets World.
