While it's easy to get hung up on the latest trend or the season's It bags [1], style really isn't something that can be bought. Sure, editors and insiders have their share of chic gear, but the reason some become icons and inspirations [2] is because of how they put the whole look together. At the end of the day, it's about how you style it — and styling, friends, is free.
With that in mind, we've zeroed in on 10 quick ways to wear your clothes — small ways to tweak your jacket or cuff your jeans that have a major impact on how your whole outfit looks. Plus, these aren't seasonal or of the moment; these are timeless tricks that work again and again.
Roll Your Sleeves
Long sleeves were meant to be rolled, right? While a button-down can feel stiff, rolling up the sleeves gives it an easy nonchalance. It's the easiest way to inject a little cool factor into even your most classic shirts.
Cuff Your Jeans
The hemlines of our jeans might just cover up the best part of our outfits — the shoes, of course! — if we didn't roll them up. Instead of rolling up under the hem for a discreet, "looks like I didn't cuff them at all" look, do as the editors and insiders do and embrace the roll. The result is cool and a little undone — and perfect for showing off your heels.
There's more than one way to cuff 'em — from a single roll to a double, find your style [4] and master the look you want. A single cuff works well with stiffer, straight-leg denim, while a rolled cuff goes well with a baggier boyfriend jean.
Drape Your Jacket
Nothing says "fashion" like a draped jacket over the shoulders. It costs nothing and makes your outfit look infinitely more expensive and chic.
Et voilà! Suit separates become a multidimensional, contemporary look with an overcoat slung nonchalantly over the shoulders.
Knot Your Shirt
The easiest way to remix a button-down or define a waistline without a belt is knotting your shirt right at the middle. It lends a more creative finish than just tucking in your shirt and adds a playful touch.
Tuck In Your Shirt
We have the old J.Crew to thank for a lot of our favourite styling tricks, specifically the half-tuck. Rather than tuck in the whole shirt, this look conveys a more casual, current vibe that turns even a jeans and T-shirt outfit into more of a statement. Tuck half the shirt or the whole front, and let the tail hang over the waistline.
Belt It
Influencers have this trick down. With a slew of belts in their arsenal, they transform oversize shirts, tunics, and coats to fit to their frames. You can define your shape and highlight your waist — plus, the belt adds polish to even the most casual ensembles. It may take a minute to throw on, but it looks like a more complete outfit every time.
By belting your outerwear, you ensure that your coat will stay in place all day and that it becomes a part of your whole ensemble. Win, win.
Wear a Slip Dress Over a T-Shirt
Slip dresses aren't reserved for evening anymore; shake up your daytime routine when you throw on a T-shirt or button-down under a sexier slip dress you used to save for evening.
Let Your Sleeves Hang Out
It seems like a small thing, but showing off contrasting sleeves under a blazer or sweater has a stylized look that screams fashion.
Wear a Jean Jacket Off the Shoulder
Jean jackets are always a classic, but they feel fresh when you wear them slung off the shoulder.
Replace Your Top With a Dress
Reinvent your workwear when you slip on a tunic or a silky dress instead of a blouse with your suit separates.