Some days, you look into your closet and just can’t find anything new to wear. The truth is, creating a kickass wardrobe isn’t as tricky as you might think. All you need to do to break free from your style rut is invest in a few key fashion pieces you can mix and match with to come up with fresh new looks day after day.
Today, let’s go back to basics together and create four drastically different looks with your white shirts, from office chic to Boho princess.
1. Mix and Match: Casual Cutie
With spring in full swing, it’s time to slip into some cute casual wear. For a sweet, daytime look, select a clean white shirts from your wardrobe. A plain one will do, but a stylised lacy tee like the INC International Concept Cap-Sleeve Lace Top (Macy’s - $60.60) will add a lovely touch of femininity to your outfit.
Next, pair your tee with a flirty a-line skirt in one of spring 2013’s hottest colours: cayenne. The Xhilaration Junior’s Textured Skirt (Target - $17.99) is a good choice for this playful look, as the hem of the mid-rise skirt just skims the thighs to give a very cheeky glimpse at your perfect pins.
Shoes? Beige or nude heels are a must-have this season. If you don’t already have a pair to mix and match with, dress your feet in the A2 by Aerosoles Women’s Crosswind pumps (Famous Footwear - $49.99). The 2 ¼ inch heel is just enough to elongate your legs for added slenderness while still being practical to walk in. Besides, we just can’t get enough of the fab decorative bow on the toe strap!
Complete this cute and casual look with a charming accessory. We adore the Tressa Collection Sterling Silver Love Pendant (Target - $32.99), with its rhinestone studded heart and endearing sterling silver “love” proclamation. Combined with the rest of your sassy and sweet look, it’s sure to set hearts on fire.
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2. Mix and Match: Corporate Chic
White shirts are ideal for creating the base of every office-ready outfit. To create a simple but sophisticated corporate chic look, start with a smart white blouse, like the INC International Concepts V-Neck Blouse (Macy’s - $48.20). The beauty of this white shirt is that it sports a crisp v-neck collar and elegant lines for a professional look, while retaining a relaxed, airy fit that makes super easy to mix and match with your fave jeans and heels on your off days.
If you don’t already have a stylish pair of work pants, check out the Kasper Pants Ava Curvy-Fit Trousers (Macy’s $60.60). They’re contoured perfectly for a flattering fit around the hips and the thighs, but flare out at the bottom in a trendy bootcut style. Lined trousers like these are an absolute staple for any work wardrobe.
When you’re trying to achieve an attractive but polished look for the office, you can’t go past a pair of quality black pumps. The Bandolino Women’s Galleigh shoes (Famous Footwear - $29.99) boast a sexy 3 ½ heel and a fashionable leather finish. We love versatility, and the Galleigh heels’ classic design makes them oh-so suitable to mix and match with the rest of your work staples for maximum versatility.
When you really want to rock the boardroom, you can amp up this corporate chic look by adding a tailored blazer. Not only will the Merona Women’s Twill Blazer (Target - $34.99) help you cut a fiercely professional and fabulously flattering figure, but the dramatic black hue will look stunning against the backdrop of your smart white shirt.
Savvy shoppers can use our coupons and deals for great savings on the whole look.
3. Mix and Match: Boho Beauty
Let’s get you out of those work clothes and into something a little more casual! For an effortlessly airy and completely carefree look, it’s time to break out yet another of your white shirts. This time, you’re going to need a peasant blouse to help you embrace bohemian beauty. The gorgeous Free People Lace Peasant Blouse (Macy’s - $110.10) is our top pick. The sheer lace panels give this hippie must-have a delightfully modern twist and a subtle infusion of femininity that’s hard to resist.
While you can mix and match this boho-inspired white shirt with both jeans and shorts, it really shines when paired with an equally organicskirt. The IZ Byer California Tiered Maxi Skirt (Kohl’s - $29.99) in navy blue will add to your free-spirited look, with its charmingly folksy rope belt and ankle-skimming hemline.
Next, opt for a pair of earth-toned open shoes, like the FERAGALICIOUS Women’s CANDIE sandals (Famous Footwear - $39.99). These wedge sandals sport a faux-leather finish and rustic gladiator style that blends perfectly with your fashion-forward hippie-inspired ensemble.
To finish, pay homage to your inner gypsy or wild child with a striking Sterling Silver Peace Pendant (Target - $19.99. Not into bling? No problem! Just substitute this cool peace pendant with a more spiritual wooden bead necklace (Amazon - $5.12) for a traditional look.
4. Mix and Match: Biker Babe
So far, we’ve shown you how to mix and match white shirts to look cute, boho-chic and corporate. But what about when you’re craving something edgier? Finally, it’s time to transform yourself into a biker babe!
Start by digging out a short-sleeved white shirt. A plain white tee is fine, but for added flair, you can substitute a slightly more interesting design, like the NY Collection Short Sleeve Zigzag Knit Top (Macy’s - $9.60). The feminine style will create an edgy contrast with the more androgynous look of the rest of the outfit.
Pair your white shirt with your favourite slim-fit trousers. After all, biker babes can’t afford to wear flowing pants when they’re burning rubber! We love the Free People Skinny-leg Corduroy Pants (Macy’s - $61.90), because they’re a great alternative to your usual jeans and cling in all the right places for a seriously sexy silhouette.
Next, it’s time to don the most important piece of your grungy-glam biker ensemble: a badass leather-look jacket. The Apt 9 Motorcycle Jacket (Kohl’s - $30) is a good choice and as tough as it is trendy. The asymmetrical design and zipper accents scream fashionista while the soft modal fabric promises comfort and durability.
Skip the heels with this look. Instead, choose a pair of iconic boots, like the White Mountain Woman’s Fido Boots (Famous Footwear - $60). These bold, faux leather boots enjoy a military-inspired design that will only add to the edgy androgynous nuances of your outfit.
To finish, add a chain necklace (Target - $24.99) for a sliver of decoration and a heap of attitude.
And there you have it, ladies. All it takes is four, well-chosen white shirts to create four fab looks. Even better, all the white shirts pictured above are versatile enough to effortlessly mix and match with - that leaves you open to come up with on trend outfit variations all season long! Good luck and happy shopping.
