5 Effortlessly Cool Outfit Formulas for Spring Summer

Ever felt like you have nothing to wear? Enter one of the best tools that you can have in your capsule wardrobe toolbelt - outfit formulas. Outfit formulas are easy two-to-three-piece equations that can help you get inspired to create new outfit combinations with items you already own. Having a few favorite outfit formulas in your back pocket can combat the feeling of having nothing to wear and help you get dressed in a pinch.

Today, I’m going to be sharing five effortlessly cool outfit formulas for spring and how they can be adapted to different style types. Let’s get started.

Shirt Dress + Heeled Sandals

One of the simplest ways to look put together is to throw on a well-fitting shirt dress. Go classic with a striped t-shirt dress and two-strap sandals, or make it casual with a pair of slides or sneakers. For a preppy look, try a polo dress and low-heeled mules. Or get creative with an asymmetric oxford-style shirt dress and some funky accessories.

Straight Leg Jeans + White Shirt

Another super easy go-to is straight-leg jeans and a white shirt. For the creative style, a boxy, oversized cap-sleeve shirt with monochrome gray denim makes a great backdrop for these emerald mules and a contrasting bag. For a more classic look with a romantic twist, try a white shirt with pleated bell sleeves and a tie waist with some classic dark wash jeans and black heeled slides. And for the casual style, light wash denim with a classic oxford shirt and some ankle boots or sneakers is an easy and chic option.

Knit Skirt + Sweater + Sneakers

A more unexpected but fun combination for spring is a knit skirt, sweater, and sneakers. For this outfit formula, I love a tonal or monochrome look. Mix a jewel-toned knit skirt with a hoodie in a lighter shade for a cool athleisure take on this outfit formula. Or, go full monochrome in a neutral colored skirt and cardigan for a casual look with an elegant twist. And if you’re looking for something a little more edgy, go for a shorter skirt in a fun print, black wrap sweater, and Vans.

Trousers + Puff-Sleeve Top + Sandals

Next, let’s try trousers and a puff sleeve top. In my experience, trousers are a very underutilized garment and are often relegated to work wardrobes only. However, they’re a great alternative to denim if you’re willing to try incorporating some trousers into your everyday capsule.

For a romantic look, try a floral puff-sleeve top with some wide leg trousers and strappy sandals. If you’re feeling bold and creative, pair some bright-colored trousers with a simple white top and statement heels. Or try some black track-style trousers with an exaggerated white puff-sleeve top for an editorial take on the athleisure style.

Denim Shorts + Crop Top + Jacket

Finally, for those really warm spring days, consider pairing some denim shorts with a crop top (or tank top) and jacket. For an effortlessly cool athletic look, combine these crossover denim shorts with a sporty bralette, bold track jacket, and ball cap. For a more elegant and dramatic look, start with a black and white base and add a boxy cropped blazer and strappy heels. Or throw a leather jacket over a halter top or bikini top with some funky sneakers for an edgy street-style vibe.

You May Also Enjoy…