There comes a point in every season, especially in late winter, when the mere thought of getting dressed is exhausting. For those of us who enjoy clothes and putting together outfits, there sometimes comes a point when the sartorial inspiration runs dry, and even one’s most tried-and-true looks fall short. Fortunately, lazy dressing is having a bit of a moment just in time for March.
What is lazy dressing, you may ask? It’s simple, chic outfits that require hardly any effort and take the stress out of putting together well-balanced ensembles. If you’re the sort of person to stress about getting dressed, here’s a rundown of a few outfit formulas made for lazy yet stylish dressers.
Lazy doesn’t necessarily mean loungewear. There’s nothing difficult about pairing a classic tailored blazer with a t-shirt and dark-wash jeans. Unlike light-wash and distressed jeans, darker denim comes across more impressive, while the t-shirt keeps it easygoing. Normally I’d don a chunky sneaker with this outfit formula, but that requires tying laces, so instead, I’d opt for a slip-on loafer for footwear that’s lazy yet polished.
Another easy yet still chic look is pairing an oversized V-neck sweater with a pair of slouchy trousers. To avoid looking sloppy, tuck the front part of the sweater in while letting the back half drape. Fully tucking in the sweater may create bulk and take away the effortlessness of this combo. In this instance, I would wear a sneaker and choose a midi or maxi-length overcoat to toss over top. This is a great outfit to “borrow from the boys.” Consider sourcing the sweater and coat from the men’s section or your husband’s closet.
A jacket, top, pants, and shoes can seem like a few too many elements for a lazy look. Further, simplify your effortless dressing with the two-piece outfit formula of a sweater dress and boots. I love the idea of a rib-knit dress and a pair of utility boots, but this lazy look works with any type of knitwear and boot combo. A chunky, cable-knit dress with knee-high boots, or a fit-n-flare crocheted frock with Chelsea boots, or a waffle-knit midi-length dress with cowboy boots. Just don’t get overwhelmed by all the potential combinations of this lazy pairing, and if need be, layer with leggings, tights, or over-the-knee socks on the chillier days.
Another two-piece lazy yet chic look is a bodysuit and high-rise jeans. Surprisingly, bodysuits are the ultimate lazy-dresser basic. Think about it; they don’t require any tucking, so you can throw out the whole “zhuzhing” of your look with a half-tuck, side-tuck, and folding/draping of the shirt hem. The flattering silhouette created with a high-rise pant and a slick pair of heels will make it look like you have put far more work into your outfit than what was actually necessary.
Speaking of not putting in too much work, pair a maxi skirt with a matching sweater, and viola, you are outfitted. Monochrome is one of those trends that make dressing well shockingly easy, as any two (or more) color-coordinated pieces will get the job done. This look can also create a chic blank canvas to add accessories and layers if you are so inclined. Whether you use this look as a base or as its own outfit, add a pair of retro sneakers to give it a sporty flare.
Nothing seems more casual than a pair of leggings. It is common knowledge that leggings and lazy dressers are made for each other. What is less known is that leggings don’t necessarily equate to a sloppy or low-key look. An easy way to elevate black leggings is with a leather jacket. Any leather outerwear, whether moto, vintage, biker, or even a leather blazer, will act as a statement piece and take standard leggings to an edgy arena with little to no effort. To mix up the textures of this combo, add a chambray shirt and ballet flats.
Lastly, one of my favorite lazy looks is a striped knit and wide-leg jean. Black and white, navy and white, and even red and white striped shirts give any outfit a Parisian feel. And, like the French themselves, this outfit combo gives off a laissez-faire attitude toward dressing while still being stylish.
Hopefully, one or more of these outfit formulas will inspire even the laziest of dressers for what’s left of the winter season!
