Here at Who What Wear UK, we pride ourselves on our know-how when it comes to solving fashion dilemmas. Wondering what to wear in winter? We've got you covered. Searching for an office outfit that doesn't feel stuffy? We're experts. Simply looking for the next It item or trending style? Easy. But what can prove to be the trickiest challenge is actually the simplest question: how to perfect an easy, elegant, everyday outfit that is as low effort as possible with maximum payoff. Sound familiar?
Unlike dressing to meet a specific dress code, daily outfit building has to meet practical requirements as well as make us look and feel good. Should you also be the kind of person who spends Monday morning pulling apart their wardrobe to find something that will fit the bill, you know just how difficult this balance can be to achieve. After declaring "I have nothing to wear" for the umpteenth time (something I know to be untrue), I came across an outfit formula that provided a solution so simple that there is almost no thought required. Cue the TikTok sandwich rule.
Those familiar with last year's "2x2 outfit formula" will know just how much of a game-changer it was for our wardrobes, so imagine my excitement when I came across a new method that makes the concept even easier. The idea is simple but effective (believe me): just start by choosing a colour for the top and matching it on the bottom. For example, a black jacket worn with blue jeans can be balanced with black shoes, and a brown coat over a cream dress will look expensive with brown shoes, and so on. No matter how many outfit combinations I tried this with, the rule was still applicable, and once I realised just how easy it was, I kept spotting it in outfits everywhere I looked— in fact, you may even already do it without realising.
With this five-minute wonder in mind, I put some of my favourite new-in finds together into sandwich outfits that might help you the next time you get stuck with what to wear. Happy outfit-building!
1. CARDIGAN + JEANS + BALLET PUMPS
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
A smart cardigan like this will help elevate even the simplest outfit.
A pair of blue, straight-leg jeans might just be the hardest-working piece in your wardrobe.
Kitten heels are sticking around for 2024, and your feet will thank you.
A pop of cream always stands out against a monochrome outfit.
2. MAXI COAT + JERSEY TOP + WIDE-LEG TROUSERS + TRAINERS
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
Charcoal grey is the perfect foundation for any outfit.
Basic tops like this are well worth stocking up on in a few colours.
It's a tough call between the navy, black, and beige colourways—they're all so good.
Good luck getting your hands on a pair of these in trending bright red anywhere else.
It always helps to have a timeless pair of sunnies in your arsenal.
3. FLUFFY KNIT + MIDI SKIRT + KNEE-HIGH BOOTS
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
This shade of brown looks far more expensive than the jumper's price tag.
You'll be able to wear this all year round.
These come in black too, but chocolate brown looks extra luxe in sandwiched layers.
The finishing touch.
4. TRENCH COAT + MINIDRESS + MULES
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
When the weather gets milder, a trench coat makes for an ideal outer layer.
Such a cute party dress.
You'll be able to dress these up with mini hemlines and keep them casual with jeans and a jumper.
The key to making good outfits great.
5. WOOL JACKET + MINISKIRT + LOAFERS
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
I can't think of an outfit that wouldn't benefit from this.
My dream knit.
The full suit is good, but you can wear the skirt on repeat with anything.
A true classic.
Top-handle bags are having a moment, and this one ticks every box.
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