This outfit is basic, casual, practical and comfortable. With the addition of a scarf it’s the type of look I’ll wear on a flight or sight seeing in mild weather. I’ll also wear it on a day jam packed with errands, or when I’m working at home. 

I find stretchy cigarette pants like these Real Skinnies from the Gap more comfortable than jeans because they are extra soft. They are ideal for traveling. I prefer to wear my only t-shirt as a sweater so that’s why I’ve layered it over a denim shirt. This particular tee is thick so it works well worn over button down shirts. No grinning effect of buttons and breast pockets. Surprisingly, my striped “sweater” gets lots of wear so I’m looking to duplicate it with a real sweater in a similar stripe. I think I’ve found just the right one, and will add it to my closet as a new wardrobe essential. I’ve come to enjoy a simple high necked striped sweater more than I thought I would.

The shirt, tee and pants are modern classics, but the bag and shoes are not. The shoes are on-trend slipper flats in an animal print. They have been my go-to shoe this Summer, which is why they are already worn on the toe tips. The bag is more avant-garde with its unique chain detailing. Although the non-classic parts of the outfit add an interesting element to the look, I’m also content substituting them for classic two toned ballet flats and a cream tote. That would amplify the classic integrity of the outfit, which is fine by me.

I couldn’t resist the matchy-matchyness of my black and white specs, complete with striped temples. Why not! Apart from a watch and wedding ring, the outfit is jewelry-free – although the chains on the strap of the bag are like a “body necklace”. My cream trench goes over the lot to keep me cozy when it’s chilly in the morning and evening. 

Apart from the shoes, these items are several seasons old. And I still wear them frequently. It’s comforting to like your old wardrobe items as much as your brand new goodies, don’t you think? It’s also satisfying to enjoy wearing a very basic outfit as much as a more dramatic, trendy and fashion forward one. Basic does not have to mean boring.