What Is Elevated Casual?

You know those women you see from time to time who always seem to look stylish and polished, even when they are dressed casually? That effortlessness is something many of us strive for and spoiler alert… it takes effort! So what exactly is an elevated casual look? Well, it starts with basics. (Remember how I always talk about the importance of basics?? You can gain access to our updated wardrobe basics checklists here.) You can create that elevated casual look with some simple styling tweaks.

It’s much easier to show you how to do it. Let’s take a look at two examples from Saks Fifth Avenue below.

JEANS | TOP | BLAZER | BOOTIES | EARRINGS | SUNGLASSES

Outfit #1

Take a look at this first outfit above. It’s sexy, sophisticated, and stylish…all rolled into one. Now, I want you to talk about what exactly elevates this look… and turns jeans and a camisole into something much more special. Keep scrolling…

Modern Jeans

Let’s take a closer look at the “basic” layers…starting with the jeans. The word, basic, is in quotes because these jeans are basic, but with a modern twist.  In the case of these jeans, the twists are the super high-rise and straight legs (vs. skinny). Not only do they make my legs look longer, but the straight legs feel more fresh than a pair of skinny jeans. (I did a piece on alternatives to skinny jeans here.)

This camisole is another example of an elevated basic. Not only does the silky fabric make it look sexier and lingerie-like, it also has a bold, gold, chain-detail around the flattering v-neckline that really makes it pop. This will be a layering piece I’ll wear all season! I’m wearing a size small and it runs true to size.

Now for the piece that really takes the whole look to another level. I often talk about adding polish to your looks by adding a third layer. In the case above, my third layer is a structured, stunning, black Balmain blazer. This is a huge investment piece. I’ve owned mine for three years and I have traveled all over the world in it… and just LOVE wearing it! It is totally worth the money in my opinion. The blazer takes the simple cami and jeans and adds maximum sophistication, elevating the whole look. (I’m wearing a size 38. True to size, but narrow in shoulders.)

You can also try an edgier third layer like a moto, denim, or bomber jacket. A cardigan sweater can also add some interest and polish. When you add the 3rd layer, it often has the added bonus of slimming your sides and minimizing the tummy too!

My Stuart Weitzman sock booties are yet another seemingly small detail that make a big impact. You can throw on any old pair of rounded-toe, classic, black booties this fall OR you can wear some standout stiletto booties like I have on above. The sock bootie style is perfect to wear under all of your new modern jean silhouettes too! They are fitted to the calf so they will not add bulk under your jeans.

JEANS | BLOUSE | BLAZER | BOOTIES | EARRINGS | SUNGLASSES

Look #2

The faster way to elevated casual?? Choose a standout color or one standout piece! In the case of my look above, I think you’ll quickly notice that it’s a combo of both. This pink L’Agence blouse has both a standout color and design. The color pink is having a HUGE moment in fashion right now. Valentino had an epic Fall Ready-to-Wear fashion show featuring nothing, but pink. It’s a must watch if you haven’t seen it already. It is positively mesmerizing. As many of you already know, I am a huge fan of the color pink, so I plan to take full advantage.  This beautiful blouse also has elegant lace, puff shoulders, and a pointed collar that gives it a crisp, sophisticated feel. I’ll style it with jeans, pants, and skirts throughout fall! It’s more versatile than you might think. (It also comes in black, white, and purple.) For sizing, it runs a little large. I’m wearing a 4, but think 2 would be better… so I suggest sizing down.

Love to be in the know? We share the most wearable fall/winter fashion trends here.

Fave Saks Finds!

Sometimes an opportunity comes along that really gives you pause… and a cause for celebration. Well, being able to share my favorite finds here on SaksFifthAvenue.com definitely qualifies!! It’s a pinch-me moment! Please be sure to check it out. Also, you can find more elevated casual pieces, on Saks’ Elevated Essentials page. They have perfect pieces that fit into that “not-so-basic, basic” category. 

By the way, Saks is having their August Gift Card Event right now! You can earn a Saks Gift Card up to $700 when you use code ‘AUGGIFTSF’. Ends 8/20.

Huge thank you to Saks Fifth Avenue for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to receive some incredible style resources. I would be so grateful if you would share this post with a friend. The share buttons are below.
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