What’s reliable, beautiful, and always has your back in a pinch? A trusted outfit formula.
If you’ve found yourself standing in front of the closet, overwhelmed by choices or underwhelmed by your options, this guide is ideal.
Let’s transform how you get dressed.
What is an Outfit Formula?
An outfit formula is a go-to combination of clothing items that you know looks great and works with your lifestyle.
Think of it as a reliable recipe for getting dressed. While the specific pieces you wear can change, the formula remains the same. Getting ready in minutes is now a reality.
Outfit Formula Essentials from Classic Six
To build these outfit formulas, I’m enlisting the help of Classic Six, a brand dedicated to simplifying wardrobes with timeless staples.
At the heart of Classic Six are- you guessed it- six meticulously curated pieces designed to form the foundation of a versatile wardrobe.
So what are these six iconic pieces? These create the foundation for effortless outfit formulas:
Katharine Double-Breasted Blazer: A style uniform staple that effortlessly transitions from boardroom to brunch.
Twiggy Shift Dress: An all-in-one solution for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events.
Donna Button-Down Shirt: A wardrobe essential that exudes sophistication and versatility.
Beverly Wide-Leg Pant: A flattering silhouette that perfectly balances comfort and style.
Brigitte Linen Sweater: This cozy yet chic personal uniform piece is in my personal capsule and I love how it adds dimension to any ensemble.
Marilyn Accordion-Pleated Midi Skirt: With flowing pleats and midi length, this flattering skirt transitions from day to night.
Now that you’re acquainted with the pieces, explore the easy outfit formulas below.
Your Classic Six Discount Code
Elegance Edit readers enjoy 10% off all Classic Six pieces with this code: THEELEGANCEEDIT
Polished Casual Outfit Formulas
First off, I have five effortless outfit formulas for your casual days. Slip into these style uniforms to feel comfortable yet polished.
Neutral Sweater + Pleated Midi Skirt + Sneakers
Button Down Shirt + Wide-Leg Pant + Clogs
Neutral Cozy Sweater + Wide Leg Pant + Mules
Button Down Shirt + Pleated Midi Skirt + Sandals
Work-Appropriate Outfit Formulas
Outfit planning for work just got simpler. I crafted these office-friendly outfit formulas to exude confidence and class.
Button-Down Shirt +Wide-Leg Pant + Blazer + Loafers
Mini Shift Dress + Double-Breasted Blazer + Day Heel
Neutral Sweater + Wide-Leg Pant + Blazer +Slingbacks
Button-Down Shirt + Pleated Skirt + Blazer + Boots
Need more work outfit inspiration? This professional capsule wardrobe is 9-5 approved.
Dressy Outfit Formulas
Getting dressed up should be fun, not stressful. That’s why I recommend compiling a few easy outfit formulas that are elevated. Wear to dates, dinners, and dressy outings, darling.
Shift Dress + Statement Necklace + Strappy Heels
Button-Down Shirt + Pleated Midi Skirt + Boots
Double-Breasted Blazer + Midi Skirt + Strappy Heels
Mini Shift Dress + Neutral Sweater + Knee High Boots
Transitional Outfit Formulas
Shoulder seasons bring notoriously fickle weather. Not to worry. Build a personal uniform with layers to get you through Spring and Fall.
Button-Down Shirt + Wide-Leg Pant + Loafers
Mini Shift Dress + Printed Scarf + Wedges
Mini Shift Dress + Button-Down Shirt + Sandals
Button-Down Shirt + Wide-Leg Pant + Mules
Winter Outfit Formulas
Lastly, I have some staple outfits for cooler days. These formulas feature cozy layers and neutral tones for easy outfit creation.
Button-Down Shirt + Wide-Leg Pant + Blazer + Boots
Neutral Sweater + Midi Skirt + Coat + Knee High Boots
Shift Dress + Button-Down + Knee High Boots
Neutral Sweater + Turtleneck+ Trouser + Loafers
How to Create Go-to Outfit Formulas
The style uniforms above offered ample outfit ideas. Before you start shopping, learn how to create custom formulas that suit you.
Step 1: Understand Your Body Type
Creating go-to outfit formulas begins with understanding your body type and proportions. Knowing what flatters your shape will make it easier to assemble outfits you enjoy wearing.
Here’s how to get started:
- Identify Your Body Type: Common body types include pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Determine which category you fall into to find out which styles and cuts will enhance your natural shape.
- Research Flattering Styles: Look up style recommendations for your body type. For example, A-line skirts and wrap dresses are often flattering for pear-shaped bodies, while belted tops and high-waisted pants can enhance an hourglass figure.
Step 2: Build Your Wardrobe with Key Pieces
Once you have a clear understanding of what flatters your body type, start building your wardrobe with key pieces that you can mix and match. To do so,
- Choose Versatile Basics: Invest in high-quality basics that suit your body type. As a petite, I enjoy high-waisted trousers that lengthen my legs.
If you’re in need of staples, Classic Six is filled with supremely versatile pieces.
- Add Statement Pieces: Outfit formulas are templates. They are meant to be personalized. So weave in a few standout items that reflect your style and can elevate your outfits.
Under 5’5? This petite capsule wardrobe is oh-so-flattering.
Step 3: Create Your Go-To Outfit Formulas
With a well-curated wardrobe and a clear understanding of what flatters your body type, you can now create your go-to outfit formulas.
Follow these steps:
Identify Key Occasions
Think about the different occasions in your life, such as work, casual outings, and special events. List out the typical scenarios for which you need outfits. A wardrobe planner may help you decide what to prioritize.
Create Outfit Templates
For each key occasion, create outfit templates. Start with a base item and build from there:
- Work: Start with tailored trousers. Add a fitted blouse, a blazer, and pointed flats.
- Casual Outing: Begin with high-waisted jeans. Add a fitted tee, a denim jacket, and sneakers.
- Special Event: Choose a versatile wrap dress. Pair it with heels and statement jewelry.
Mix and Match
Using the templates, mix and match pieces from your wardrobe to create different outfits for each occasion. For example, swap the blazer in your work outfit for a cardigan for a more casual office look.
Outfit Formula FAQs
Time, darling, time. Using an outfit formula streamlines choosing what to wear, saving you time every morning, and reducing the overwhelm of too many choices.
With quick decisions and fewer options, you can focus on key pieces that work well together, leading to a more cohesive personal style and a boost in confidence.
The way you transition will depend on your climate. Here are my top tips:
Summer:
During warmer seasons, adapt your outfit formulas by opting for lighter fabrics and breezier silhouettes. Add breathable materials like cotton and linen to the rotation. For example, swap out heavy sweaters for lightweight knit tops or sleeveless blouses. You can also keep your current outfit formulas but remove the layers.
Winter:
As temperatures start to drop, layering becomes your best friend. You can extend the wear of your favorite warm-weather pieces by layering them with cozy essentials. I like layering a turtleneck underneath my sleeveless silk dresses and tights under skirts. That way, I maximize my closet.
Build Stunning Outfits with Classic Six
As you create your go-to outfit formulas, explore Classic Six. This curated collection offers timeless pieces that effortlessly complement any wardrobe. As you can see from my styling above, I adore the Marilyn Pleated Midi Skirt. Browse the collection to see what speaks to you.
Plus, you et an exclusive perk: 10% off all Classic Six pieces with this code: THEELEGANCEEDIT .
