Style Guide: How to Spice Up Your Basic Jeans and T-Shirts

Posted by Alexandra C. | Thursday May 3, 201223 comments


A while back, I wrote about how easy I found getting into a style rut was and I let you in on a few tips and tricks of my own on how to beat those fashion blues. This time around, we're talking about another sneaky style rut that many of us fall into and sometimes, we don't even realize it. 

It's called: "the uniform". Everyday, without realizing it, you put on the exact same thing. One of the most common uniforms is the basic jean and t-shirt. Sound familiar? 

Don't panic just yet though, we've all been there and there is a way to get out. Now, as long as your denim and tee of choice are a good fit, modern washes and cut well, there really isn't anything too wrong with wearing them. Except that it's about as exciting as watching paint dry. To get you out of that daily dullness, here are 4 ways you can spice up your basic jean and t-shirt. And to show you just how fabulous it can look, we've put together four examples to provide a little stylespiration. 

1. Add some brights: A pop of colour, even in the smallest capacity is going to do wonders for your outfit. It can act as a focal point on a neutral canvas. This means that your piece is going to really stand out and speak for itself. At the same time, your entire outfit is going to be more detailed and interesting. You don't need to go with a solid colour either.  Try prints, patterns or colour blocked accessories. 
 

1. Catarzi Exclusive to Asos Straw Tonal Trilby (C$52.22)
2. Fold Over Color Block Clutch Purse (US$26.00)
3. Forever 21 Southwestern Beaded Cuff (C$7.80)
4. Tory Burch Aviators (US$165.00)
5. Aldo Stremlow Wedges (C$80.00)
6. Modcloth Emerald School Coat (US$164.99)
Buffalo Felow Jeans (C$118.00)
White Fitted Scoop-Neck Tee, Old Navy (C$12.50)


2. Add a spring jacket: I love a fabulous spring jacket. Whether it's a trench or even a great cardigan, a spring jacket can brighten up an outfit and give it a sophisticated feel. Look for a coat in a bright colour or print to complete a fresh look. A classic camel coloured trench works too for an Audrey Heburn-esque outfit. 


1. Attitude Tie-Dye Scarf (C$25.00)  
2. Burberry Brit Detachable Hood Yellow Trench Coat (US$543.13)
3. H & M Sunglasses (C$12.95)
4. Forever 21 Tribal Chord Necklace (C$10.80)
5. Banana Republic Flower Brooch Cuff (C$74.00) 
7 For All Mankind Mid-rise Bootcut Jeans (US$160.00)
 
3. Make a statement: A statement piece can be anything from jewelry to a pair of shoes. What makes it a statement piece is the fact that it's an attention grabber. It can be oversized, colourful, detailed, unique or just generally interesting. It doesn't need anything else, on it's own it's enough. Balance out a statement piece with a basic jean and tee for a chic ensemble.


1. J Crew Cashmere Long Cardigan (C$286.00)
2. Big It Up Scarlett Floppy Hat (C$70.00) 3. Asos Patent Fluro Skinny Belt (C$10.44)
4. Nasty Gal Veracruz Ring (US$15.00) 
5. Tobi Joia Saddle Satchel (US$75.00)
6. Ardene Bracelets (C$5.50) 
7. Dolce Vita Wedge Sandal (US$178.00) 
Cheap Monday The Tight Jean in Very Stretch One Wash (US$47.00)
 
4. Add a scarf: I have about a hundred scarves in my closet and still my collection will never be complete. I love stocking up on scarves because with the variety of colours and patterns, they add something extra special to an otherwise uninspired outfit. They do double duty as a wrap on a chilly summer night as well.


1. Mango Roll-up Cuffs Blazer (C$79.99) 
2. Top Shop Intricate Bug Scarf (US$36.00)
3. La Mer Carpe Diem Clear Banded Watch (US$148.00)
4. Zara Suede Slingback (C$99.90)
5. Oakley Changeover Sunglasses (C$175.00)
6. Dannijo Lila Ring (US$270.00)
7. Lia Sophia For You, By Debbie Bracelets (C$98.00)
J Brand 620 Super Skinny Jeans (C$180.83)

How do you spice up an old tee and denim combo? 
More by Alexandra C.
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23 Comments

on October 17, 2014  Pup21 said:

This made me want some of these accessories!

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on May 22, 2012  staceb  1,174 said:

Oh, I love the Spring and pink looks with jeans. Too cute!

on May 08, 2012  Henrys  815 said:

Great ideas. I am definatly one of the people who wear the same basic thing all the time.

on May 08, 2012  GoneBatty  3,196 said:

Love the bright coloured coats! Screams spring :)

on May 07, 2012  farouknabela  3,469 said:

These are awesome tips! I love white colors in the summer :) That mango blazer is TO DIE FOR :D

on May 07, 2012  fredamans  12,209 said:

Love Look 4!

on May 07, 2012  Vlicious  3,821 said:

I'm with mamaluv on the runners rut as well! It's runner or flats for me lately, but I love almost every shoe in this article! especially the wedges! Great tips!

on May 07, 2012  mimi8801  15,057 said:

Great ideas. Love the bright colors

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