Elevated Casual Looks with Sterling Personal Styling. Whether you are dressing for a brunch with friends, a work meeting or a date night, it can be challenging to strike a balance between formal and casual. The term elevated casual has become increasingly popular in recent years, but what does it actually mean? Elevated casual is a way of dressing that combines comfortable, casual clothing with elevated, sophisticated elements to create a chic and stylish look. In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into what elevated casual means and how you can achieve the look with the help of Sterling Personal Styling.
First and foremost, elevated casual is all about the fit. The key is to have clothes that fit well and flatter your body, without being too tight or baggy. Elevated casual clothing should be comfortable enough to move around freely, yet polished enough to make a statement. Think well-tailored jeans, fitted blazers, and comfortable, yet stylish shoes. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or overly baggy, as they can make you look sloppy rather than chic.
Second, elevated casual incorporates simple, yet high-quality fabrics. Opt for clothes made with natural fibers like cotton, silk, and linen. These fabrics breathe well and feel luxurious against the skin, giving a refined and elevated look to even the most basic clothing items. Avoid synthetic blends that can cheapen your look and don’t wear as well as natural fibers.
Third, accessories play a crucial role in elevated casual dressing. They can make or break your outfit, adding that final touch of sophistication. Statement jewelry, a sleek belt, or a chic hat can elevate even the most basic of outfits. Keep in mind that less is more, so choose carefully and invest in high-quality statement pieces.
Fourth, color and pattern are essential elements in achieving an elevated casual look. Subtle pops of color or an interesting pattern can add depth and personality to your outfit, making you stand out from the crowd in a sophisticated way. Coordinate complementary colors and patterns, choosing pieces that work together rather than against each other.
Fifth, elevated casual dressing is all about paying attention to the little details. Tucking in your shirt, rolling up your sleeves, or cuffing your jeans can add a level of sophistication to your outfit that is often overlooked. These small details show that you have put thought and care into your look, resulting in a refined and stylish appearance.
Elevated casual dressing may seem intimidating at first, but with the help of Sterling Personal Styling, you can achieve an effortlessly chic look that is perfect for any occasion. Our expert personal stylists will work with you to create a personalized elevated casual wardrobe that fits your style, body type, and budget. Let us help you elevate your casual look and stand out from the crowd. Book a consultation today and take the first step towards a more elevated, stylish you.
Elevated Casual: 7 Essentials to Elevate Your Casual Look
It’s the end of the week, and you’re looking forward to a relaxed weekend gathering with friends, or maybe a lazy Sunday brunch. You want to look stylish yet comfortable, without appearing underdressed. But how do you elevate your casual look without compromising on comfort? The secret is to add a few key pieces to your wardrobe that will instantly make your everyday outfits look effortlessly chic. Keep reading for seven essential items that will take your casual look to the next level.
- Blazer
A well-tailored blazer is a versatile piece that can transform any outfit into a sophisticated look. Whether you opt for classic black or bold prints, make sure your blazer fits you perfectly in all the right places. Wear it over a plain t-shirt and jeans or pair it with tailored stretchy pants to elevate your outfit.
- Statement accessories
Accessories are the easiest way to elevate any outfit. Statement earrings, a chunky necklace, or a bold watch can enhance even the simplest look. Invest in pieces that will complement your wardrobe and bring some sparkle to your casual outfits.
- Elegant footwear or sneakers
Ditch your gym sneakers and opt for chic sneakers / footwear instead. A pair of heeled sandals, ballet flats, or ankle boots can add elegance to any casual outfit. Choose comfortable yet stylish footwear that you can wear all day without hurting your feet.
- Silk scarf
A silk scarf can elevate your outfit instantly while adding a touch of luxury. Tie it around your neck, in your hair, or attach it to your purse for a chic look. Choose a silk scarf that complements your outfit and matches your skin tone.
- Wide-leg pants
Wide-leg pants are a comfortable yet stylish alternative to jeans. They add a polished touch to your outfit while still keeping it casual. Pair them with a tucked-in shirt or a crop top and some elegant footwear for a chic look.
- Trench coat
A trench coat is a classic piece that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for those unpredictable weather days and can make any outfit look more sophisticated. Wear it over a casual outfit, or belt it up for a cinched waist look.
- Structured bag
A structured bag is an essential item for any elevated casual outfit. It adds polish to a look while serving a practical purpose. Opt for a classic style like a tote or shoulder bag in a neutral color that you can wear with every outfit.
Elevating your casual look is easier than ever with these seven essential pieces. Dress up your outfit with a tailored blazer, statement accessories, and elegant footwear. Add some luxury with a silk scarf and a classic trench coat, or opt for comfort with wide-leg pants and a structured bag. With these essential items, you’ll look stylish yet effortless every day. Invest in these pieces, and you’ll be on your way to a more elevated and polished casual look.
Elevated Casual: 7 Must-Haves to Elevate Your Casual Look
Casual looks have become the ultimate go-to style for many people. However, being casual doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style and fashion. In fact, with the right pieces, you can elevate your casual look to create a stylish fashion statement. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing 7 essentials that will help you achieve that stylish and elevated casual look.
- Start with a stylish pair of jeans
Jeans are a versatile wardrobe staple that everyone should have in their closet. A stylish pair of jeans can easily elevate your casual look. Look for jeans with unique details like unique closures or a unique wash. You can also add a pop of color with colored denim or experiment with different cuts like flares or wide-leg jeans.
- Add layers with a blazer or denim jacket
Layering is an essential styling technique that can add depth and texture to your casual outfit. For a more elevated look, try adding a blazer or denim jacket to your outfit. A blazer automatically elevates any outfit, while a denim jacket can add an edge to your casual look.
- Invest in stylish footwear
No outfit is complete without a stylish pair of shoes. Opt for footwear that speaks to your personal style like sneakers or loafers for a more casual look. For a more polished look, you can opt for a pair of ankle boots, heels, or oxfords.
- Accessorize with statement jewelry
Adding statement jewelry is one of the easiest ways to elevate your casual look. A chunky necklace, oversized earrings, or stacked bracelets can create an effortless statement. Experiment with different metals and textures to add depth to your look.
- Play with patterns and prints
Prints and patterns can add a fun and playful twist to your casual outfit. Look for patterns like polka dots, stripes, or plaid shirts. Pair them with neutral pieces to create a more balanced look.
- Elevate your T-shirt game
A T-shirt is a classic casual staple that is perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different fabrics and cuts like linen, cotton, or modal. You can also add a graphic T-shirt or a statement tee to add a fun twist to your outfit.
- Embrace a pop of color
Add a pop of color to your casual outfit for a bold statement. You can experiment with different color palettes to create a more cohesive look. Pair bold-colored tops with neutral bottoms for a more balanced look.
Elevating your casual look is all about experimenting with different pieces and styles. Whether it’s adding layers, experimenting with prints, or investing in statement jewelry, there are endless ways to add style to your casual wardrobe. With these 7 must-haves, you’ll be able to create an elevated casual look that is both fashionable and comfortable.
Elevated Casual Looks: How to Look Put Together Without Trying Too Hard
Casual doesn’t always have to mean sloppy or frumpy. There’s a way to dress comfortably while still looking put-together and professional. The key is to have a few essential pieces in your wardrobe that you can mix and match to create elevated casual looks. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to dress casually without looking dumpy and provide examples of casual pieces that you can incorporate into your wardrobe.
- Know What’s Appropriate: Before we dive into which casual pieces to add to your wardrobe, it’s important to know what’s appropriate to wear in certain settings. For example, ripped or distressed jeans might be fine to wear to a family gathering or a casual brunch with friends. But, they may not be suitable for a meeting with clients or a job interview. It’s always best to dress for the occasion and to use your best judgment.
- Essential Pieces for an Elevated Casual Look: There are a few essential pieces that you can add to your wardrobe to elevate your casual look. These include a well-fitted blazer, a classic white T-shirt, a pair of tailored pants, a structured bag, and a pair of comfortable but stylish shoes. These pieces can be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks that can take you from day to night.
- Mix and Match: The key to creating elevated casual looks is to mix and match your wardrobe pieces. For example, you can pair a blazer with a pair of distressed jeans and a white t-shirt for a more relaxed look. Or, you can dress up a pair of tailored pants by adding a statement necklace and a structured bag. The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about finding what works for you and your personal style.
- Pay Attention to Details: Another way to elevate your casual look is to pay attention to the details. This means ensuring that your clothes are properly fitted, your shoes are polished, and your accessories are complementary. A simple necklace or bracelet can add a touch of elegance to an otherwise casual outfit, and a well-fitted blazer can instantly make you look more put together.
- Confidence is Key: Lastly, it’s important to remember that confidence is key when it comes to dressing. No matter what you’re wearing, if you wear it with confidence, you’ll look and feel great. So, embrace your personal style and have fun with your wardrobe. The more comfortable and confident you feel in your clothing, the more elevated your casual look will be.
Dressing casually doesn’t always have to mean looking sloppy or frumpy. By incorporating a few essential pieces, mixing and matching your wardrobe, paying attention to details, and wearing your outfits with confidence, you can create elevated casual looks that are stylish and professional. So, go ahead and experiment with your wardrobe, have fun, and let your personal style shine through.
7 Tips to Elevate Your Stay-at-Home Look
With so much time to ourselves amid the pandemic, the majority of us are spending more time at home than ever before. As working from home has become the new normal, there is no reason for us to ditch our fashion sense. While it can be tempting to stay in our comfy pajamas all day, dressing up can help to improve our mood and productivity. Hence, in this blog post, we will reveal seven tips to elevate your stay-at-home look without sacrificing comfort.
Invest in comfortable yet stylish loungewear. Look for pieces that are made from breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics are comfortable and conducive for lounging while still maintaining a fashionable appeal.
Accessorize your loungewear with statement jewelry. Jewelry will add a touch of glamour to even the most casual outfit. A statement necklace or a pair of statement earrings can bring a pop of color and style to an otherwise basic outfit.
Embrace monochromatic outfits. Wearing monochromatic outfits can make you look put-together even while lounging. You can try combining two shades of the same color or mix a neutral color with a pop of color.
Add some glamour to your hair. Do not neglect your hair as well when you are dressing up at home. Experiment with different hairstyles and accessories to elevate your look and add some extra spark to your day.
Consider adding a blazer or cardigan. Adding blazers or cardigans can take your outfit from lounge-wear to desk-ready. Blazers and cardigans are comfy and soft and add structure to your outfit, making you look smart and put-together.
Get creative with footwear. Slippers and flip-flops may keep you comfy at home, but switching out your footwear to a cute pair of sneakers or sandals can make you feel like you’re ready to take on the day. Opt for shoes that are both comfortable and stylish to add that extra oomph to your stay-at-home look.
Experiment with makeup. Experiment with different makeup looks to enhance your features. Try bold lipstick or eyeliner to add some glam to your look, creating that extra pop. Makeup can lift your mood, and by taking that extra step in getting ready, you will feel more confident and productive.
By trying out these simple tips to elevate your stay-at-home look, you will increase your sense of well-being and feel better about yourself. Looking good leads to feeling good, and when you feel good, you are more productive, motivated, and mentally strong. So go ahead and try them out, incorporate them into your daily routine, and elevate your stay-at-home look today!
What Does Casual Mean in the Workplace?
Dress code is an essential aspect of the work environment. It plays a significant role in how colleagues perceive you and how seriously you are taken in the workplace. Among the different types of dress codes in the workplace, the casual dress code is the most commonly implemented one. However, the term casual can be a bit confusing. It is crucial to differentiate what casual means in a job dress code and what it means in the workplace. Moreover, it’s not enough to come to work in casual clothes, you also need to look professional. In this blog, we will discuss what elevated casual means and why it is essential in the workplace.
Firstly, let’s define what casual attire means in the workplace. The main characteristic of a casual dress code is that it allows employees to wear more relaxed clothing than what is typical for formal workplaces. Casual attire varies by company; it is up to the employer to dictate what they consider to be appropriate dress for the workplace. In general, casual dress code in a job context usually means clean and ironed pants or skirts and a decent shirt. However, this is not always the case in some casual workplaces, where jeans, shorts or even flip-flops might be acceptable.
On the other hand, elevated casual is a notch up from the typical casual dress code. The goal of elevated casual is to look professional and credible, yet still comfortable and functional. In elevated casual, you’ll want to avoid wearing athletic wear, such as yoga pants or sweatpants, graphic t-shirts or tank tops, and naturally anything too revealing. Elevating your outfit is crucial when you have an upcoming client meeting, a presentation, or when you represent the company in public events. Wearing elevated casual gives out the impression that you are putting in effort and taking the job seriously.
When it comes to elevated casual wear, there are different styles you can choose from. For women, a simple yet elegant dress with a blazer or cardigan on top will look professional, yet still comfortable. For men, fitting slacks and a collared shirt or polo will look sharp and professional. You can also add accessories to elevate the look, such as a wristwatch or a statement necklace for women.
Also, elevated casual is not just about the clothing itself. How you present yourself, coupled with your attire, is important. Hair and makeup should look neat and clean, and you should not look too casual. You can also add a blazer, a scarf, or a pair of glasses to give off a professional vibe. Grooming is equally important for men. Neatly groomed facial hair or ideally bearded men may want to trim their beard just right. A well-maintained haircut and general grooming will make a great impression.
In conclusion, understanding the difference between casual and elevated casual dress codes is essential in the workplace. Casual can be too relaxed, while elevated casual is still comfortable and functional, but at the same time, professional, sharp, and credible. When deciding what to wear in the workplace, think about your company’s culture, wearing clothing that represents professionalism, formality, and the company culture. By mastering the art of elevated casual, you’re sure to make a great impression with colleagues and clients alike and keep a professional attitude throughout your workday.
Michelle T. Sterling is an American award-winning, internationally renowned image consultant, personal stylist, and online personal shopper. She’s available for in-person consultations if you’re located in New York, DC, San Francisco, Miami, or Dubai, or she provides virtual consultations to clients worldwide. Her style advice has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, CNN, Gulf News, Details Magazine, and Forbes, among others.
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