Classic wardrobe staples are always in style, but they don’t have to feel stuck in the past. With a few modern tweaks, you can give these timeless pieces a fresh, on-trend vibe.
Whether it’s the way you style your favorite blazer or the way you wear your denim, these 18 styling tips will update your classics and keep your outfits feeling current. Ready to refresh your closet with some creative, fashion-forward twists?
Layer a Graphic Tee Under a Blazer
A bold twist on a timeless combo. Instead of the usual blouse under your blazer, try pairing it with a bold graphic tee.
The unexpected mix of a sharp, tailored jacket with a laid-back, casual tee creates a striking contrast. Keep the tee subtle with neutral prints or go all out with statement designs depending on your mood and the occasion.
Tuck Your Shirt Into High-Waisted Pants
Elevate your silhouette instantly. Tucking your shirt into high-waisted pants is a simple trick that makes a huge difference.
It elongates your legs and cinches in your waist, creating a flattering shape. Whether it’s a classic button-down or a casual T-shirt, this styling tweak helps modernize your go-to pants, making them more flattering and current.
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Layer a Sweater Over a Button-Up Shirt
A cozy update for preppy staples. For a fresh take on a preppy look, layer a lightweight sweater over a classic button-up shirt.
Let the collar peek out, and roll up the sleeves for a laid-back vibe. This simple combination adds depth and dimension to a classic outfit and gives your look a trendy, layered feel.
Swap Loafers for Chunky Sneakers
A comfortable but stylish change. Loafers are timeless, but swapping them for chunky sneakers can add a youthful, trendy edge to your outfit.
This modern footwear update works especially well with dresses, skirts, or trousers, offering a stylish contrast between casual and chic. The best part? Sneakers keep your feet comfy all day long.
Add a Belt to a Flowing Dress
Shape it up with a touch of structure. Flowy dresses can sometimes feel too loose or shapeless.
A belt cinched at the waist instantly creates a more flattering silhouette. Whether it’s a sleek leather belt or a fun wide one, adding this accessory adds interest and structure to your look, while still keeping it comfortable and effortless.
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Pair Wide-Legged Trousers with a Fitted Top
Balance proportions for a chic look. When you wear wide-legged trousers, balance the loose silhouette with a fitted top.
This modern pairing allows the trousers to be the statement piece while keeping your look sleek and put-together. A tucked-in fitted tee or a cropped sweater works perfectly to balance out the proportions and give the outfit a fresh, contemporary feel.
Tuck Your Blouse into a Midi Skirt
A modern way to style skirts. Tucking your blouse into a midi skirt brings a modern twist to a classic look.
Opt for high-waisted skirts for an ultra-flattering silhouette. Play with textures and prints—pair a simple blouse with a patterned skirt, or mix fabrics for a trendy, sophisticated vibe.
Trade the Cardigan for a Chunky Knit Sweater
Chunky layers for a fresh feel. Cardigans are classic, but chunky knit sweaters are having a major moment.
Swap your cardigan for a thick, oversized knit sweater to add a cozy, chic vibe to your outfit. Pair it with skinny jeans or a midi skirt to create a balance between oversized and tailored elements, keeping the look effortlessly stylish.
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Try a Blazer Dress
A smart and stylish take on the classic blazer. Turn your blazer into a dress by wearing it buttoned up with no pants underneath.
This edgy styling choice brings a fresh, fashion-forward update to the classic tailored blazer. To make it work, keep the fit slightly oversized, or layer it over tights for extra warmth and structure.
Swap Regular Denim for Colored Jeans
Add a pop of color to your wardrobe. While blue denim will always be a classic, colored jeans are an exciting update to the traditional look.
Choose bold, vibrant hues like red, mustard, or emerald green to modernize your denim pieces. Pair them with neutral or contrasting colors on top for a fun, trendy ensemble.
Mix Patterns with Stripes and Polka Dots
Bold prints make a statement. Mixing patterns can be intimidating, but pairing stripes with polka dots is a playful, stylish way to experiment.
This modern twist on classic prints makes an outfit more dynamic and interesting. Start small with accessories like scarves or shoes, or go all out with an entire outfit for a bold statement.
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Wear a White Shirt with Statement Accessories
Make a simple piece pop. A classic white shirt is anything but boring when you pair it with eye-catching accessories.
Think bold earrings, chunky necklaces, or a standout handbag. The simplicity of the white shirt makes the accessories the focal point, transforming an otherwise basic outfit into something chic and modern.
Layer a Vest Over a Shirt
A cool, contemporary silhouette. Take a classic shirt and layer a structured vest over it.
This stylish layering trick adds dimension to your look and works particularly well for colder months. Opt for a tailored vest for a polished, professional vibe or go casual with an oversized knit vest for a cozy, laid-back feel.
Combine a Pencil Skirt with a Hoodie
Mix formal with casual. A pencil skirt is a wardrobe classic, but mixing it with a hoodie gives it a fun and unexpected twist.
The contrast between the polished skirt and the casual hoodie creates a playful yet sophisticated look. Add heels or sneakers, depending on your mood, and you’ve got a perfect blend of comfort and style.
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Throw a Bomber Jacket Over a Dress
Mix masculine with feminine. Pairing a bomber jacket with a feminine dress gives your outfit a modern edge.
The rugged, sporty feel of the bomber contrasts beautifully with a delicate dress, creating a cool, contemporary balance. Choose a sleek bomber in a neutral color or try one with metallic or embroidered details for extra flair.
Wear Chunky Boots with a Dress
Give your dresses a bold twist. Chunky boots are the perfect way to give a feminine dress a modern, edgy update.
This pairing is comfortable and stylish, offering a unique contrast that’s both functional and fashionable. Whether it’s a flowy midi dress or a sleek mini, chunky boots add attitude and personality to your outfit.
Style a Button-Down Shirt with a Blazer and Jeans
Create an effortlessly cool look. Pairing a classic button-down shirt with a blazer and jeans gives off an effortlessly cool vibe.
The sharpness of the blazer balances the casualness of the button-down and jeans, making it a perfect look for work or a night out. Play with patterns or fabrics to modernize the style even further.
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Mix Leather with Lace
A daring yet elegant combination. Leather jackets and lace dresses or tops may seem like an unlikely pair, but the mix of tough and delicate is undeniably chic.
The ruggedness of leather adds a bold, modern edge to the soft femininity of lace. This combination works beautifully for a night out or a fashion-forward daytime look.
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