September checks…

While it’s just fine to run across the street to drop off mail, it’s not a complete outfit. One of my favorite things about clothes is how versatile they are, especially the staples like jeans and t-shirts. Make these pieces your own by layering and accessorizing. Create memorable outfits with a statement jacket, an embellished bag, your favorite vintage jewelry, or a trendy and colorful heel. Anyone can wear jeans and a t-shirt, so what makes your casual look stand out?

The easiest way to dress up a casual jeans and tee outfit during autumn is to throw on a jacket. While most of you immediately grab for a patterned bomber or classic trench, (both great options!) I prefer to add a bit of masculinity with a strong-shouldered blazer in a menswear check plaid. If you’re going to wear something with a boxy construction, finding your correct size is utterly important. If something has no defined shape and swallows your frame, it will look a bit sloppy. I love my ‘told you so’ blazer from Alice + Olivia because it adds some hard edges to my form-fitted jeans and tee combo. And on top of that, who doesn’t adore a sharp check plaid for fall?

Now, I want this pattern to speak for itself. So I’m keeping the rest of the outfit very minimal. My Roger Viver bag is a beautiful, buttery leather that compliments the color palette without distracting from the blazer. To highlight the pale pink of the shirt, I’ve thrown on a rose-colored twisted belt. You know I’m one for that extra pop of color, and complementary hues of the same shade are definitely a go-to for me. So as not to have too many elements going on, I’ve opted out of a necklace this time around. Sticking to a favorite pair of vintage earrings completes my look without going overboard for a casual day, out and about.

What if I wanted to wear this look out at night? I’d switch out the t-shirt for a detailed black or white blouse, and throw on my favorite pair of platform stilettos. And during the winter? I’m immediately reaching for my favorite puffer from the back of my closet. Because of the easy-going nature of a jeans-and-tee look, the possibilities are endless! How would you dress up an outfit like this to make it your own? Leave a comment below!