Genius Outfit Ideas for When You're Running 15 Minutes Late

We've all had that moment where you look at the clock and realize it's significantly later than you thought it was. In moments like these, your outfit becomes your biggest stressor, but we have news for you—it doesn't have to be. When time is of the essence, you only need to focus on a few key pieces no matter where you're going, whether that be work, a lunch date, or a formal event.
To give you a better idea of what we're talking about, we have laid out seven examples of easy outfits that you can throw together when you're running late. We tried to pick items that need little thought, no ironing, and that you probably already have somewhere in your closet. As long as you prioritize the key players in your outfit, getting ready in a flash can be easier than you think. From bomber jackets to punchy heels, get ready to shop some of the easiest outfit ideas for when you seriously underestimate the time.
Keep reading to shop genius and easy outfit ideas for when you're running late.
BOMBER + GRAPHIC TEE + JEANS
Bomber jackets can make even the simplest of outfits that much cooler. Throw one on over a graphic tee and a pair of jeans, and you're out the door.
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MONOCHROMATIC LOOK
When you don't have time to think up mind-blowing color combinations or matching in general, pick one color and stick to it. That way, chances are that no matter what you grab, it will all look great together.
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BASEBALL CAP + BLAZER + JEANS
Running late often results in leaving your hair completely undone. In this case, throw on a baseball cap and counter the casual vibe of the accessory with a tailored blazer. The duo is forward and polished despite the little effort or time you put into it.
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PRINTED DRESS + CARDIGAN + BOOTS
Printed pieces come in handy when you're running behind because they hide wrinkles extremely well. Since ironing or steaming the contents of your closet is probably the last thing on your priority list when you were supposed to be somewhere 10 minutes ago, let a printed dress and a cardigan make up for your lost time.
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MOTO JACKET + WHITE T-SHIRT + BLACK JEANS
This is a classic fashion-girl go-to, isn't it? We know you all have a moto jacket, a white T-shirt, and a pair of black jeans, so throw them together when you're in a pinch for a foolproof and striking look.
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STATEMENT COAT + LEGGINGS + PUNCHY HEELS
Disguise the pair of leggings you just didn't have time to change out of with a gorgeous statement coat and punchy heels. Everyone will be focusing on everything but your leggings, leaving your rushed morning completely in the dust.
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SWEATER + TROUSERS + BRIGHT SHOES
Late for work? All you'll need is three things—a crewneck sweater, tailored trousers, and bright accessories like white shoes. The combination reads classic, chic, and professional no matter how much time you put into getting ready.
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Lauren Eggertsen is currently the editorial director of Who What Wear and has worked at the company for over nine years, where she started as an associate editor and has since worked her way up. Lauren has worked in the Los Angeles and New York Who What Wear offices but currently calls L.A. home. Here, she leads and manages Who What Wear's editorial team and oversees all editorial content. Lauren's role also includes helping to set the fashion direction for all original photo shoots and often styles many celebrity cover shoots, including big names like Kaia Gerber, Normani, and Sabrina Carpenter. She has also attended multiple fashion weeks, including New York, London, Milan, and Paris, where her style has been featured on sites such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Elle.
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