I’m a firm believer in the benefits of having a few outfit formulas nailed down so that you can get dressed for your day effortlessly but stylishly. Since many of us like to look a little polished and pulled together when we join friends for lunch, attend a meeting or gathering, go out for dinner or participate in a class, I thought I’d share an elevated casual spring outfit formula that works again and again.
How to Shop Here: To shop the items I feature, just click on the words in the captions of photos, the highlighted words in my text or the images in the shopping widgets I sometimes include. When you shop through my links I potentially earn a commission on your purchases, but at no additional cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting my work here by shopping my links. Items that have been gifted to me by the associated brand are indicated with “c/o”.
An outfit formula is simply the major types of pieces that you combine together to achieve similar results over and over, even if you wear different individual pieces in those categories each time. For instance, one common spring outfit formula that I shared in this recent blog post was “a pair of nice trousers in a classic neutral + a pretty blouse + sandals.” And the style or outfit formula I shared in yesterday’s blog post was “white jeans + cashmere sweater + sandals.” I used different pieces in different outfits, but the same basic types of pieces. So I got similar results each time. Make sense?
Today’s Elevated Casual Spring Outfit Formula
Today’s outfit formula is so comfortable and easy. You can vary the specific elements so that the results are slightly different with each wear. That’s the joy of style! But knowing this outfit formula and making sure you have the key elements in your closet can make getting dressed for your day so easy and fun.
casual wide-leg ankle pants + cotton button-front shirt + sandals
Today I’ve worked this simple but elevated casual spring outfit formula two ways, but both times I’m wearing my wide white ankle pants. They’re really not very wide, just a slim wide fit with a straight silhouette. So they look very classic and easy, not complicated or fussy. And the fabric is just right for a casual but polished vibe. My wide white ankle pants run true to size for a very comfortable fit. They’re available in petites and misses, but the white is sold out in the plus sizes.
These pants come in several colors and three neutrals. I think the formula works most consistently with neutrals. So, to summarize, you don’t have to work this formula with white pants. But I do think a neutral like white, khaki, sand, black or navy will give you the most versatility in your closet. You can work this outfit formula with any wide-leg ankle pant that works for your body and that you enjoy wearing on the repeat.
The second part of the formula is a cotton button-up shirt. It can have a collar or not. Yes, the look will be a little different depending on the type of button-up shirt you use. But that’s the beauty of a formula: it provides freedom for interpretation, while giving the basic guidelines to repeated success. For this first look based on our outfit formula I wore the soft black Caroline shirt, which features a mandarin collar, soft ruching, subtle puffed sleeves and a relaxed fit.
The final element in this elevated casual spring outfit formula is sandals. If you’re still not wearing sandals yet (and I’m not much myself), you might want to create a different formula which includes a closed toe shoe like a ballet flat or boat shoe. But you’ll want to return to this feminine formula once the weather warms up for sure.
I love the way this formula works with white pants and a modern, solid black button-up shirt. And I especially love the effect I got by wearing cognac accessories here. Cognac really brightens up black and white combinations, keeping them from looking flat and boring.
Next I worked the same outfit formula – casual wide-leg ankle pants + cotton button-front shirt + sandals – but this time I wore a floral print ruffle shirt, which features dainty pintucks and a scooping v-neckline. The two shirts I’ve worn here are very different from each other, but they’re both button-up shirts. So you can see that I can wear the same basic formula but with just a little variation I can create very different looks.
I daresay, I could wear these two outfits on consecutive days to a women’s conference or work event and no one would think I was wearing the same thing over again.
Here I’ve added a simple denim jacket as a completer piece. It may not be trending, but a classic denim jacket will forever be my go-to for spring. It just goes with everything.
Again I’ve worn those cognac accessories. They’re timeless and always look a little rich, a little elevated.
By the way, my ruffle shirt fits true to size and is available in petite, misses and plus sizes. You could work this formula with classic collared button-up shirts, too, of course. And I do so frequently. But I thought it would be fun to see this classic formula worked with two different types of button-ups, each a little unique and special.
What do you think? Will you wear this particular elevated casual spring outfit formula this season? Or do you have another formula that you lean into when you want to look polished and put together for casual events and outings? I’d love to hear from you today!
Shop the Post:
You can shop the look through the links in the copy above or through the shopping widget below. Sale prices are not always reflected in the widget, so click through to get pricing info. Remember, if you purchase anything through these links I potentially earn a commission, but at no cost to you. Thank you for shopping through Dressed for My Day. I am grateful!
Don’t Miss a Post:
If you like what you’re seeing here at Dressed for My Day, I invite you to subscribe to my email list. You can receive an email each time I post (about 6 times weekly) or just on Saturdays. You choose! But you’ll also receive the password to open up all the subscriber freebies I offer. You can subscribe HERE.
Blessed for My Day
Guilt is a heavy burden that can weigh you down and hold you back. A godly guilt or sorrow over our sin should lead to repentance and the desire to walk more closely with the Lord. It shows us that we are human and reveals our need for a Savior. It points us toward God’s love and opens our eyes to His amazing grace.
But once we have confessed our sin and laid it before the Lord, we have to trust that He has forgiven us and get up to walk in a newness of life. It may take a while to regain the spring in our step, but as we allow God’s love to saturate our broken heart, we should begin to feel light and unburdened again. If not, we may have allowed the enemy of our soul to confuse us with his lies. Friend, if you are carrying around guilt over a past mistake that you have already dealt with at the cross, you are living in bondage to the enemy. Cry out to the Lord and ask Him to set you free once and for all. He has given you freedom and forgiveness. Walk in it. Better yet, run with it!
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~ Romans 6:23
I agree a button up shirt or blouse and smart trousers is my go to outfit for many different occasions .
I also love a combination of black and white, always looks simple clean and classic.
Love the cognac accessories to add a contrast.
Many thanks for your blogs and videos .
I live in Wales and its great to receive your emails.
I can’t access your shops or American websites but I can look for similar items in shops such as Marks and Spencers and our version of Walmart which is known as George at Asda
Regards Gloria
I curated my wardrobe using these outfit formulas. I actually write down the formulas that work for the activities in my life. Then I note where I need to fill in wardrobe items. It helps me prioritize the things I need and helps to fill gaps mindfully and strategically. I know not everyone wants to take the time to write things down, but it works for me!
I am so glad to hear someone else does what I do, DebC! It’s a huge timesaver, and I feel my outfits are more polished and pulled together with little effort.
I think this may be my favorite formula you have discussed. Like you my denim jacket is always in my spring wardrobe.
Kay,
I do use this formula. I also wear my denim jackets frequently in the spring.
Thanks for a good post !
Mary
Help! I can no longer see your posts on my iPhone. (I am texting on my iPad. ). The pop up about joining preferences appears and won’t scroll down and let me finish, so that’s as far as I can go.
You are my favorite influencer!
Sally
I’m sorry to hear that, Sally. Trying “pinching” the pop up so that you can click on the “x” and delete it. Once you’ve done that you shouldn’t have to fool with it again for a while.
Occasionally I have this problem & have found that reloading the page often works. You might try that.
I love both of these outfits! Thanks for the inspiration, as always!
This outfit formula will work well for my lifestyle.
My lightweight denim jacket is a must for warmer weather. Our furnace is still running, so it will be a while. I can’t wait for warmer weather!
I wear white pants and sandals but I never really thought about pairing them with a button down shirt. It looks very polished and put together.
I love an elevated blouse with white pants and jeans. The floral top outfit looks perfect!
Hello Kay, I’d love your thoughts on wearing silver (or light gray for spring) with the spring outfit formulas featured today. The cognac is beautiful but I’m just not fond of brown and have nothing brown in my closet, not even accessories. My hair is very salt and pepper and it makes me cringe to think of brown coming near me!
Thank you,
Laurie Lake
Silver is very in right now. Instead of grey I’d probably opt for ivory, which is also very on trend right now.
I really like the way the pockets on these pants are designed. They will always lie smooth. I think that makes for a more flattering look than the slash pockets.
Loving this style and the idea of outfit formulas. One of my warm weather favs is a button up, pair of khakis, cute sandals and a purse with a pop of color. All I have to do is mix and match!
I have those pants in blue and love them, so comfortable. I would wear with a t-shirt or linen blouse.
Thank your for sharing this practical outfit formula!
The white pants look so comfortable and polished! Great springtime option.
Love this formula- this formula is what I enjoy wearing! You look beautiful Kay!
Both outfits are beautiful! I rarely wear dresses, so these elevated outfits with pants are just the inspiration I’m looking for. I love that those pants are available in petites. It’s always frustrating when I see something I love and it’s only available in regular.
Kay, your hair pulled back on the top looks very cute and youthful!!!
I love the outfits you put together for today’s formula.
I’m grateful to learn the concept of formulas for go-to outfits. I have a couple for most occasions. Some very casual and some elevated casual. Thank you, Kay.
When it’s not too hot here in Florida, I like to wear chinos and patterned button up shirts or tee tops.
I’m surprised how much I like the outfit with the flowered top. It looks great on you! I hadn’t liked it the first time you showed it. Also, as a catholic I love confession because it does give a real expressi To Gods forgiveness.
I love your great taste and skill at putting together outfits, but sadly don’t have your budget. Could you do another “Kay’s looks for less “ for your accessories, especially bags, shoes, and belts? Thanks!
I like outfit formula dressing. No excuses on what to wear! Plus our basic pieces can look fresh and new in all the combinations.
Thank you Kay, for reminding us that we can all create our own unique look in our own comfort style. I rely on jeans, tee and topper through the spring and fall, but an elevated shirt makes a whole different look that I love. Lynn
Such a good message about guilt and forgiveness. You’ve inspired me to want to buy some spring blouses. I have shirts Tshirts and a couple of cotton and linen short sleeves sweaters but only one blouse. (By the way Kay I love that pink tie front T-shirt you styled a couple of weeks ago.) I like how you accessorize the outfits too. I’m using my denim jackets too. To me they just make sense in warm weather to take off the chill of the AC. I do wish I could find an unlined linen or cotton jacket or blazer in black or navy.
Kay, your outfit formulas make getting dressed easy and yet still looks put together! These pretty tops look fresh for the new season while still being appropriate for cool spring days.
Great looks fir spring. I usually wear pants and tees or polo’s, i like the button up blouse idea. My jean jacket is my go too also.
Thank you for the devotion today,as always thought provoking. Thank you fir your blog. Blessings, Ksyr
Black and white is one of my “go to” combos. I like that you added the cognac in your belt and shoes.
You look lovely in both tops and I like your style formula ideas. One of my go-tos is a button down with blazer and jeans. I add accessories and feel great going most anywhere. Love love your cognac pieces.
Thank you, Kay, for your encouragement to walk in freedom and forgiveness. You are a blessing!
Also, that you for the lovely style formula for spring. I plan to try it. ❤️
Blessings, Natascha
I purchased the flowered blouse from Talbots and received just last week. In the meantime, I read a blog from another influencer, and she said that flowered tops aged you. I almost regretted the purchase until I received it. I think it is darling. Does this make me an old lady or look older than I am? I think it did not age me? What is your thoughts on this subject? Thanks
Hi Sherry, as I said in my recent YouTube video about wearing prints, I really think the key is in how you style the prints. They do not have to age you at all. Maybe watch that video for some tips: https://youtu.be/kH88xwxyx2c
I don’t often wear button down blouses, but I have a similar formula, of a neutral trouser and a sleeveless knit top – some solid color, some prints. Like you, I love cognac accessories. What a great BFMD, so true!
I like both outfits. Thanks for the style information.
Both beautiful outfits and style suggestions. I can’t afford the clothing and shoes and handbags you show, but I can make my less expensive closet work with the ideas.
Beautiful pants. The detail is lovely.
This is an outfit formula I’ve been wearing this spring. If the weather is a little cool for a cotton or linen shirt, I add a tank under it for a bit of warmth. Sometimes I let the tank peek out at the top, but usually it’s for warmth/comfort only.
Thanks for the style inspiration.
This formula is pretty much all I wear – either jeans or nicer pants with a top, sweater or blouse, and then a jacket or cardigan depending on time of year. I don’t even have a skirt and only have a few dresses which I rarely wear. This is a formula that is just so practical for me and I appreciate seeing it on your blog!
Thank you for the formula! I love to wear white pants especially in the summer!!
I would love to see a list of style formulas all typed up in one place that I could tape inside my closet door. I seem to default to what matches what and trying to make an outfit without a formula when I stand in front of my closet. Do you already have this type of list? I can always make my own, but why reinvent the wheel if you’ve already done the work.
Thank you for the style inspiration, Kay! The white pants are a necessary summer staple, in my world. My white pants are jeans, ankle and cropped, rather than the dressier fabrics.
You have lovely taste in the pieces you select and how you put them together. I like that you often mix price ranges, and we know if something seems a little high, you are showing an example that can usually be found at a different price point. Thank you for the care and gentleness of your messages. Always look forward to your posts.
I love lightweight trousers, and these Talbots ones look lovely! I have a beautiful button-down from Frank and Eileen that would work great with the formula. I won’t’ be wearing sandals for quite awhile, I still like wearing my ankle booties! And the denim jacket is the perfect topper! Nicely done, Kay!
Hi Kay!
I look forward to your posts as your style so closely aligns to my tastes! After breast cancer surgery and during chemo, I lost 25 lbs. When I finished chemo and after things settled down, I carefully selected what I thought were classic pieces to fit my “new” body. It is now about four months later and I have (unintentionally) lost another 20 lbs. I never thought I would be in the position to be encouraged to gain weight! I’m holding steady my current weight and I think this is where I will end up.. I am 5’7″ and around 120 lbs. and I am overwhelmed by everything in my closet. Even the new clothes I bought don’t fit right. Would you advise me on about ten classic pieces in an affordable price range that will see me through spring and summer?
I will watch your make-up tutorial with interest; I feel like I look muddy, sunken, and dull these days. In every way, though, brighter days are coming!.
Thanks you for all you do.
Alice Rowe
Rochester, New York. .
Oh my, Alice. Bless your heart. Yes, I can gladly help you out with this, but it will take a little time. Give me a few days and I’ll create a style inspiration board with some options. I’ll put it in our Saturday morning email so that others can enjoy it, too.
I am still trying to figure out the intensity of an outfit. I have seen the video a few times – duh ! Is the intensity between the shirt and pants or your hair ,eyes and skin tone. I wish on your blogs for awhile you would tell the intensity of the outfit, then maybe it would sink in .
Thanks,
Gwen
Thank you for your outfit formula ideas. I agree, a classic denim jacket is my quick and easy go-to third piece to pull my jean outfits together.
I love the ruffle shirt and I think florals are so pretty in the spring and summer. I recently found 2 floral tops and also silver and ivory sandals at tjmaxx – very affordable prices. Can’t wait to wear them once the weather warms up a bit.