What to Wear When You Have “Nothing to Wear”
Let’s think about this, you wake up late and are late for work, and you’re standing in front of your closet and feel like you have nothing to wear. Does it sound familiar to you? Worry not, it’s a universal feeling. Even the most fashion-forward people have mornings where creativity stalls and their wardrobes feel uninspiring.
There’s good news though. It’s not about having more clothes, but knowing what to reach for when your brain still feels stuck in sleep mode. If you have ever found yourself in this situation, here’s how you can get dressed in a pinch, feel put together and trick everyone into thinking you had it all planned out.
The power combo
When you have doubts, you need to start simply. It can be a white tee tucked into high-waisted trousers or wide-leg jeans. Even a pencil skirt can be considered. This is effortlessly cool. You can add a belt and clean sneakers or loafers and you are good to go.
This is the ultimate combo for those who want to achieve the “I didn’t try but I look polished” look. And it works because it balances relaxed and structured elements, and it always delivers. A quick half or French tuck will add instant shape and make your outfit look more intentional.
Image from: https://whatveewore.com/2021/03/26/power-dressing-outfits/
Dresses & Jumpsuits
When you can’t even begin to put two pieces together, then into the one-piece wonders. A simple midi dress, a shirt dress or a jumpsuit is the fashion equivalent of a cheat code.
You can add a pair of boots or white sneakers and sunglasses, and you’ll be leaving your house looking like a whole moment. Yes, even if you were half-asleep five minutes before.
If the weather is a bit colder, you can wear a blazer, a denim jacket or an oversized cardigan. You’ll be looking warm and perfect.
Going monochrome
Wearing one color from head to toe isn’t only chic, but it is also effortless. You can go all beige, black or even shades of the same color. Monochrome outfits look elevated when you have put in minimal effort. The best thing is that you don’t need to overthink matching. You just need to stick to one color family and mix textures for dimension.
Image from: https://louiseroe.com/2019/03/04/red-power-suit/
Statement blazers or jackets
One way to fake a pull-together outfit is to let your outerwear do the work. A structured trench, a bold blazer or a faux leather jacket will upgrade even simple basics. Even your favorite leggings and hoodie can be elevated with the right jacket and accessories. Add a sleek coat, gold hoops and a cute bag, and you’ll have a nice look.
Accessories as a style hack
Sometimes the outfit isn’t the problem. The finishing touch is what’s missing. When you feel like you’ve got nothing to wear, you can start with a neutral base, like a tee or jeans, a black dress, or tanks and trousers. Then you can continue to build with accessories.
Good examples are layered necklaces, chunky earrings, a patterned scarf, statement sunglasses, a bold lip or a colorful bag. These extras will give your outfit personality, even if some pieces can be considered basics.
Image from: https://www.colormecourtney.com/coral-and-green-outfit/
Creating a uniform you love
If you often get stressed when getting dressed, then it might be time to build a go-to uniform. This doesn’t mean you have to dress the same every day. It means knowing what works for you and keeping a few formulas in your back pocket.
Some examples of reliable outfit formulas are oversized shirts, boots and skinny jeans. Other is a knit sweater, mules and a midi skirt. Or a tank, blazer and wide-leg trousers.
Having a mental style cheat sheet can be a lifesaver on those days when your wardrobe feels impossible. When you already know what works, you’ll just need to remember it.
Image from: https://www.breakfastwithaudrey.com.au/power-suit-style-2018/
The third piece rule
Another styling trick is that every outfit needs a third piece beyond the top and bottom. They could be a jacket, a vest, a statement belt or even a handbag. That third piece will bring it all together and make the look feel styled. If you feel meh when you got jeans and a tee, ask yourself where’s your third piece.
Lay out your go-to looks ahead of time
Some mornings are for sure not made for decision-making. On a day when you do have the time and feel inspired, try laying out 3-5 go-to looks you love. Snap a photo on your phone and save it as closet info. Your future self will thank you when you’re panicking before a work meeting or last-minute coffee date. It will feel like having your stylist on standby.
Image from: https://mlovesm.com/2012/10/look-book-blazer-i/