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 we dive into specifics, let’s talk about what casual chic style is all about. It’s a fashion term you hear a lot lately, especially with workplaces and business implementing more relaxed dress codes that have replaced formal dress codes we once knew.

Casual chic is a fashion term used to describe a style that is a mix of formal wear and casual pieces. You may hear it referenced as “smart casual” or “elevated casual” when others describe this type of outfit or style. It is effortless outfits that require a few basic wardrobe staples paired with formal elements that elevate your otherwise casual look.

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

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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 one year ago, I realize the value in having high quality wardrobe staples in my closet. These are pieces that will forever be in style and get the most wear, compared to other trendier 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

• 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.

SHOP THIS POST