At Who What Wear, we believe that getting dressed is more art than science. Personal style is, well, personal and shouldn't be a one-size-fits-all rubric that only changes with the seasons.
However, every savvy dresser is almost guaranteed to keep three wardrobe staples in their closet: slingback pumps, a perfectly worn-in leather jacket, and relaxed straight-leg jeans. These three items can be mixed and matched together or added to an otherwise average outfit for an instant upgrade. Trust us—these pieces don't have to be expensive to look polished.
Ready to have effortless smart style at your fingertips? Shop a few of our favorite slingbacks, leather jackets, and jeans below, and keep them on standby for when your look calls for a hint of sophistication without becoming too haughty.
Shop Slingback Heels
Slingbacks easily elevate otherwise casual outfits.
Case in point: the shoes instantly make the outfit look much more put-together.
Higher heels work too.
Serious about suede.
Quite comfortable, actually.
Look for slingback pumps with a lower heel if you're going to wear them on the go.
Added points for suede.
Perfect party shoes.
Not your average penny loafers.
Perfection by Prada.
Shop Leather Jackets
A well-loved leather jacket never goes out of style—just look inside your local vintage shop.
This faux leather ages really well.
Already has that worn-in look.
Leather forever.
Brown leather jackets look so unique once broken in.
The oversize look gives this jacket a vintage feel.
A vintage gem.
For a more fitted bomber, try this genuine leather option from Madewell.
The back is fun.
Delicately distressed.
Shop Straight-Leg Jeans
Straight-leg jeans are a reliable choice for any outfit.
Straight to the point.
Perfect, as the name suggests.
Try pairing your favorite straight-leg jeans and T-shirt with a blazer and loafers for a polished weekend look.
An always-on style.
The crossover waistband adds a bit more personality to otherwise typical straight-leg jeans.
These run loose, so Frame suggests sizing down for the perfect fit.
Wear these jeans with a blazer and loafers, and you're good to go.
Next, I've Been a Wardrobe Stylist for 10 Years—This Is My 6-Piece French Capsule
-
Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
-
The Most Elegant Outfits Right Now All Have This Color in CommonIt's giving rich, elegant, and beyond chic.
-
This Pant Style With Flip-Flops Creates the Chicest Combo We've Seen All SummerIf you're looking for a way to summerify your favorite fancy pants, this is it.
-
25 Criminally Good Madewell Sale Finds That Fashion People Are Adding to Their CartsUp to 60% off? Yes, please!
-
These Are the Classy, Expensive-Looking Shoes Cool Girls in NYC Are Wearing With Shorts This SummerThey make your outfit look more expensive.
-
27 Incredibly Tempting Summer Picks From Nordstrom and Zara That Scream It GirlDid I mention everything is under $150?
-
10 Summer Outfit Ideas That Will Make Anyone Look Like a Fashion PersonGet ready for endless compliments.
-
If You're Over Kitten Heels, This French-Girl Heel Trend Is What Stylish People Are Wearing InsteadSpotted on Charlize Theron.
