Better Basics
Closet staples are supposed to make getting dressed easier, but some of the most familiar pieces can do a lot more harm to your style than you think. Though they might look good because of nostalgia or comfort’s sake, they actually throw off your proportions and dull your outfit! Come with us as we go through which so-called staples should get left behind, and which alternatives make more sense.
1. Oversized White Button-Downs
A crisp white button-down sounds like the ultimate wardrobe hero, but an oversized one can easily look too bulky. Even worse, if the shoulder seams drop too far and the hem swallows your hips, it can also hide your shape instead of creating that effortless look.
2. Thin Black Leggings
There’s no denying the comfort of black leggings, but thin pairs reveal more than you want once they stretch over the knees or backside. They also tend to make longer tops look less intentional, especially when the fabric goes sheer. At the end of the day, they look more like a laundry day outfit than a planned ‘fit.
3. Boxy Crewneck T-Shirts
Whether we want them to or not, a boxy cut makes your upper body look wider. The main reason is that the fabric sits straight across the chest and arms. It’s especially noticeable with heavy cotton styles that don’t drape, like oversized souvenir tees or stiff promotional shirts.
4. Low-Rise Skinny Jeans
Low-rise skinny jeans saw their time in the sun, and it’s time to politely retire them! Though we once adored the look, they now have a way of cutting the body at an awkward point, particularly when paired with cropped tops or fitted sweaters. Even if they fit, they also create tugging at the waistband and make the legs look shorter than they are.
Jesutobiloba Precious on Pexels
5. Long Open Cardigans
We know it seems like there’s nothing better than a long cardigan on a cold day, but those open sweaters often drag the outfit downward when they have no shape. Lightweight waterfall styles, especially in beige or thin black knit, can even cling in odd places and make even a simple jeans-and-tee outfit feel tired.
6. Ballet Flats With Tiny Toe Boxes
Don’t worry, we’re not saying that ballet flats are off the table! They’re a classic, but pairs with very round toes and almost no structure can make the feet look far too cramped. They’re also tricky with ankle pants or skinny jeans because the proportions can make the lower half look visually shortened.
7. Shapeless Maxi Dresses
Don’t get us wrong—there’s no shame in owning a comfortable maxi dress, especially for the summertime. However, you want to make sure you grab the right shape. A shapeless version can overwhelm the body, and dresses with high necklines can remove any sense of waist or movement.
8. Cropped Jackets
When a cropped jacket stops right under the bust, it makes the torso look squeezed. What’s arguably worse is that it also makes the outfit look oddly unfinished. This happens a lot with ultra-short denim jackets and shrunken blazers worn over longer tops, so it’s worth reconsidering the look before leaving the house!
9. Oversized Blazers With No Tailoring
On the other hand, oversized blazers have issues of their own, depending on their cut. Though they can look stylish, it’s only when the cut still has some structure through the shoulders and body. When the blazer’s too long or wide, it can look more sloppy than relaxed.
10. Basic Tank Tops
A basic tank top should be simple enough, so why is it catching strays? Well, the wrong neckline can make it surprisingly unflattering! Thin straps, faded ribbing, and high scoop necks can emphasize the wrong areas or make a nice outfit look more like sleepwear than streetwear.
The good news is that you don’t need to abandon basics completely. Small swaps make everyday outfits feel much more flattering, and we’re here to reveal the 10 that can help get you there.
1. A Relaxed Button-Down
A white button-down still deserves closet space, especially a relaxed version, which works better than one that swallows your frame. Look for details like shoulder seams that sit close to your natural shoulder, a curved hem, and crisp cotton poplin that holds its shape. You can wear one with just about anything, and best of all, it won’t make you look boxy.
2. Ponte Pants
Leave those leggings for lounging! Ponte pants give you the same comfort with a smoother, more structured finish. The thicker fabric also helps skim the body instead of clinging, which makes them look far more suited with tunic sweaters, loafers, ankle boots, or long coats. Plus, many pull-on options only make them easier to swap in.
3. A Soft V-Neck Tee
A soft V-neck tee creates a more flattering line through the neck and chest, which is more than you can say for a boxy one! The most important thing to choose, however, is a cotton-modal or pima cotton blend so it drapes without looking flimsy. Whichever one you go with will pair beautifully with denim shorts, high-rise jeans, and linen pants for a simple outfit.
4. Mid-Rise Straight Jeans
Mid-rise straight jeans are a smart alternative when low-rise skinnies otherwise date an outfit. They sit closer to the natural waist without feeling overly high, and the straighter leg balances fitted tops and cropped sweaters with less tugging. You’ll likely reach for them far more often than you think, too.
5. A Cropped Cardigan
As mentioned, long open cardigans can drag an outfit down. Do you know what doesn’t, though? A cropped cardigan! These add shape without sacrificing comfort, and a ribbed knit style that hits near the waist works especially well with high-rise jeans, midi skirts, slip dresses, and tailored trousers.
6. Square-Toe Flats
Square-toe flats feel more modern and balanced on the foot, which is why they’re worth swapping into the rotation. They also give your toes a little more room and work nicely with anything from cropped jeans and ankle pants to pleated skirts and straight-leg trousers. Best of all, a good flat adds polish without making the outfit overly delicate.
Anastasia Anastasia on Unsplash
7. A Wrap Dress
A wrap dress is one of the easiest swaps for a maxi dress; this style flatters your shape rather than hides it. The waist tie, angled neckline, and adjustable fit help create definition while still feeling comfortable enough for everyday wear. There’s no reason not to show off your figure, and this is the quickest way to do it!
8. A Waist-Length Jacket
Ultra-cropped jackets can be tricky because they often make layering a little awkward. A waist-length denim jacket or even a structured canvas jacket doesn’t give you those problems, though. Instead, they give you a cleaner break while still keeping the outfit light and easy.
9. A Tailored Relaxed Blazer
A tailored blazer is the safer bet if you want structure and ease at the same time. Just keep your eyes peeled for defined shoulders, a slightly nipped waist, and sleeves that don’t cover half your hands! Once you find the best fit, you can wear it with a fitted tank and jeans, a satin skirt and tee, or simple trousers and loafers.
10. A Square-Neck Tank
Did you know that a square-neck tank is just as useful as a basic tank? It’s true, so it’s time to make the switch! The neckline frames the collarbone nicely, while thicker straps and ribbed fabric keep it from looking like an underlayer you forgot to cover. Try one in black, ivory, or soft for a start to a simple outfit that doesn’t feel underdressed.
