Let's Fashion Talk

Casual chic is a way of dressing casually but with a touch of fashion that puts you a notch up from the usual casual crowd. It’s easy to rise above what I call "sub casual," which includes pieces like plastic flip flops, ill-fitting jeans, and oversize T-shirts. It’s mostly a matter of fit. Look around for T-shirts that are made for women and get them in your size. Jeans can be more difficult as you need to find a brand that fits your unique shape. Look for nicer shoes to finish the look. With variations for weather and activity, you will look fine.

But, here we want to show you how you can look even better and still be in casual mode. Casual chic requires clean well fitted clothing, garments pressed and shoes polished as needed, but in addition you want to add an extra touch of fashion that sets your outfit apart as being a bit special. You want to look like you put some care in what you chose to wear.

Members of our Let’s Fashion Talk Forum have suggested several things that will change an outfit from casual to casual chic. Often adding just one of these elements will make the difference, but of course you can add more.

Shoes are a great way to make an outfit special. Even some great flat sandals can give an outfit a lift, another fun way is to wear a modern pair of heels. Jewelry is another way to make a statement. Necklaces and cuffs instantly add a dressier element to casual. Scarves are yet another accessory that makes an outfit look special.

Layering with a jacket or cardigan is an additional way to upgrade your outfit. Even a vest gives the impression that you gave your outfit a little more thought.  Individual clothing items can also make a difference. Just one item from this year’s current fashion can do the job. For example, an animal print top or a pair of skinny rolled pants will make your outfit look fresh. However, be aware that there are some current styles to avoid.  Wide cropped pants always seem to look sloppy.  Better to roll a more fitted pant if you want something a bit shorter. And no matter how “in” a garment is if it looks awful on you, don’t wear it!

There is another great way of doing casual chic. You can start with a skirt and then dress the outfit down a bit by wearing a knit top or another casual element. In this case the skirt becomes the special touch of chic. A casual dress like a playful sundress gives a casual look as well, and fabrics like denim make any dress or skirt look a bit more casual.

I want to mention that you don’t need to spend a lot on this look. Even inexpensive stores jump on the fashion bandwagon each year. And always look to your closet first. There are probably several clothing items there that you can mix with one of the above elements to give your outfit that something extra.  The pants shown below cost me $9 at a resale shop, and I’ve worn them more than any other pants this summer. I bought the bomber jacket last fall for $35 at Walmart, which is high for them but super cheap compared to any other faux leather jacket I’ve seen in shops. I will wear it a lot again this winter.

--written by AZ Judy