The 6 Low-Effort Outfit Ideas Fashion Person Wear That Are Chic and Classic
If I had to sum up my ideal approach to fashion in one phrase, it would have to be "minimal effort, maximum impact." I love outfits that I can throw on and style in no more than five minutes, but when I walk out the door, I could fool people into thinking I spent hours putting them together.
While for some people, clothes are just something they put on in the morning, I have found that my finished look can really have a transformative effect on my mood. I need to feel comfy but also polished to be the most relaxed and confident version of myself.
Thankfully, summer lends itself to the low-maintenance approach to dressing, as you can stick to simple and time-tested combinations. Just think of the power of a linen midi dress, which merely needs a pair of leather sandals to truly sing, or the shorts co-ord that started catching on last year but has really gained a cult following this summer. After all, it's essentially a ready-made outfit.
So whether you want an ensemble to travel, head to the pub or even go to the office in, I've got you covered. Scroll down to see the six easy summer outfits that are anything but boring.
1. Linen Dress + Colourful Trainers
Style Notes: There's no simpler recipe for a chic outfit than a dress and trainers. For summer, make it a linen number and lift it with a pair of colourful kicks.
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2. Relaxed Tee + Denim Shorts + Simple Heels
Style Notes: Long shorts might sound like a contradiction, but they're actually a super sleek alternative to short-shorts. See Anouk's elevated take on the classic tee-and-denim combo.
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3. Tank Top + Midi Skirt + Platform Sandals
Style Notes: When in doubt, a tank top is an easy option that goes with just about anything. For a casual mid-week afternoon, wear it with an understated skirt and platform flip-flops like Borislava.
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4. Striped Shirt + Linen Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: If you haven't yet embraced the linen trouser trend, this outfit is sure to convince you. Stripes make every look feel effortless.
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This forest green shade will work year-round.
5. Slip Dress + Basket Bag + Mules
Style Notes: A slip dress might feel fancy, but it's actually one of the comfiest, easiest things you can chuck on in warm weather. Slip on a pair of flat mules to complete the look.
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This is Lauren's exact dress—and it's on sale.
6. Waistcoat + Wide-Leg Jeans + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: This look may not be suitable for a heatwave, but when the temperature is in the early-20s, your trusty jeans can come out. Strappy sandals are all you need to give them a summer update.
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This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next, Trust Monikh: 14 New-In Pieces I'm Adding to My Summer Wardrobe
Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.