Tips for Budget Friendly Casual Chic Style

Are you looking for ways to improve your style without spending an arm and a leg? Or maybe you’re just ready for a change of style and want to dress more like those casual chic style bloggers and sophisticated fashion icons. Implementing a casual chic style can seem daunting and expensive! I’m here to tell you, it is actually very easy and can be done on a budget!

With a few key items and a simple formula, that I share later in this post, you will be equipped to master your very own casual chic style that you dream about over on Pinterest!

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What is Casual Chic Style?

Before delving into details, let’s discuss the essence of casual chic style. It’s a fashion term frequently mentioned, particularly as workplaces and businesses adopt more relaxed dress codes, replacing the formal attire we were once accustomed to.

Casual chic is a fashion term used to describe an outfit style that is a mix of business wear and casual pieces. You may also hear it referred to as smart casual or elevated casual. Essentially, it’s about creating effortless outfits that incorporate refined elements.

An example of this style would be pairing a structured button up shirt, with destroyed jeans, classic pointy toe shoes, and a structured bag as seen below.

 

 

READ NEXT: 20-30 Pieces Styled 100 Ways!

 

Casual Chic Outfit Ideas

Here are 10 outfits from my personal wardrobe that embody the casual chic style. As a busy mom of two boys, both under five years old, I prioritize comfort above everything. This is why I love the casual chic style. This style allows be to create functional outfits that are stylish.

These outfits are all featured in previous blog posts. Click an image to be redirected to the post where the outfit is linked!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Must Have Pieces for Casual Chic Outfits

Not sure where to start with your casual chic wardrobe? Here a few recommendations for must-have pieces to incorporate with your outfits! I try to incorporate pieces like this into my seasonal capsule wardrobe guide. The guide includes 100 outfit ideas and loads of information on creating a chic, casual wardrobe!

 

1. Blazer

A blazer is an effortless way to take a super casual look and elevate it instantly. Depending on your lifestyle, either a structured or relaxed blazer will work. As a busy mom working from home, I gravitate towards soft knit blazers. If you have an office job or formal dress code, you’ll definitely want to invest in a quality blazer. To save money, search around for gently used second-hand blazers on sites like Poshmark!

In terms of color, black, camel, and gray are extremely versatile and timeless blazer options.

2. White Sneakers

Over the years, if there is one pair of shoes that I reach for THE MOST, it is a classic white sneaker. For casual chic style, wear these with a slip skirt & a sweater, leggings & a blazer, or tailored trouser & a basic white t-shirt. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll see fashion icons around the world flaunting an effortlessly chic outfit with white sneakers.

3. White Button-Down Shirt

Whether your wardrobe is formal or more relaxed, a white button-down shirt is a must for casual chic style. It is structured, yet comfortable. The epitome of casual chic outfits! A crisp white shirt can transition easily from work to happy hour to weekend errands. This is one of those pieces you’ll want to invest in as it will be on constant rotation! A chic white shirt should be relaxed, but not too big that it looks like you’re swimming in fabric. Fit is key.

4. Slip Skirt

When people look at slip skirts it’s hard to imagine creating a casual look with one. But yes, it is possible! This skirt puts the “chic” into “Casual Chic” You can pair this skirt with a bunch of casual items. A t-shirt? Yes! A denim jacket? You bet! Sneakers? My favorite! Another one with endless possibilities. My favorite slip silk skirt has an elastic waistband (LOVE) and is under $70!

5. Loafers

Your feet shouldn’t suffer in high heel shoes to create a chic look. Adding a pair of structured loafers is a fantastic way to instantly elevate a casual look. Neutral colors are always chic, so opt for black or beige loafers.

6. Structured Bag

Adding accessories, like a structured bag, is one of the easiest ways to complete any outfit in the casual chic style category. Whether it is a tote, clutch, or crossbody, a structured bag is the perfect complement to casual pieces. A must have to master this style.

7. Oversized Sunglasses

There is something about big sunglasses that screams CHIC! It is an effortless accessory that adds instant character to an otherwise basic outfit. The options are endless. It’s super important to find a frame that compliments your face shape and helps you feel confident! My go-to sunnies came in a two pack for under $20!

8. Coatigan

The luxe layering piece that can dress up or dress down an outfit with ease. It is a mix between a coat and a cardigan. Popular Winter and Fall outfits by top fashion bloggers & celebs include a coatigan. Its cozy but elevated and a MUST for casual chic style.

9. Layered Necklaces

This finishing piece to any outfit is jewelry. And this is no exception for casual chic style! Layer up two short gold chains for the perfect look. This small addition makes a big statement, regardless of style.

Casual Chic Style on a Budget

Since implementing my very first capsule wardrobe several years ago, I realize the value of high quality wardrobe staples. These are pieces that will forever be in style and get the most wear, compared to other trendier items. I am mindful to purchase high quality pieces as these tend to outlast cheaper items.

For pieces like this, I personally opt for higher quality retailers because I want the pieces to withstand the test of time. They cost more money upfront, yes, but they shouldn’t need replaced as often due to the higher quality AND they’re worn SO MUCH that the cost per wear is very, very low for these pieces. I hope that makes sense!

 

Here is a cost per wear example:

If I were to buy shoes for $30 and only wear them 15 times, the cost per wear would be $2 ($30/10).

If I were to buy shoes for $100 and wear them 100 times, the cost per wear would be $1 ($100/50).

I encourage you to shop around for items within your own personal budget! My favorite casual chic items are linked below in the “SHOP THIS POST” section.

 

 

More Ways to Save on Casual Chic

If I have my eye on a really expensive item, here are a few things I do to save on casual chic styles.

• Shop second hand! There are tons of resell websites that sell gently used, like new, name brand clothing! Local thrift stores or consignment shops are personal favorites of mine.
• Subscribe to emails! Many retailers will give new email subscribers a discount off their first purchase, or they’ll send special sales to subscribers. You can always unsubscribe later! Each retailer is different, and may or may not provide a discount, but it is worth looking into if it will save some money.
• Shop in store! If you frequently shop online, try physically shopping in a retail store. Clearance racks are a GREAT place to find savings on
• Shop your closet first! Start by shopping your closet before spending money… you never know what you might find tucked in your current wardrobe.

 

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