Lately I’ve gone back to basics and keep reaching for this flowy blouse and distressed pair of jeans. Pair with a wool blazer and printed heels for a more tailored look, or swap in a cozy, oversized scarf and loafer flats for lazy afternoons. For me, each garment in this post is a closet foundation piece that will hopefully stand the test of time. If you’re just beginning to build up a wardrobe and feel overwhelmed by options, starting with pieces in a navy, camel, and fresh white color scheme makes for classic and easy chic pairings.
As an added bonus, all items here also happened to fit off the rack. The H&M; blouse runs true to their sizing (which is on the small/narrow side, for those new to the brand) and the only tailoring I might do is to shorten the sleeves. Please note that the back of the white version is sheer so you need a nude bra or camisole. I reviewed a similar blouse by Pleione before which is pricier and fits roomier (so size down), but thought the polyester quality and overall draping were nicer.
I wore this last outfit on Saturday while playing “director” for our friends’ engagement shoot (it beats us as to how, but Nick’s made a small name for himself within this genre of photography). Coaching picture-perfect smooches all over town is hard work, and I’m glad I dressed comfortably : )
Love the outfit. What color wash is your Gap jeans? I am thinking of getting a pair.
Hi Jean. Love this look! May I ask if you altered the blazer or did it fit perfectly when u got it?
The shoulder area seems to fit u perfectly! Are the sleeves too long though?
I can't tell you how happy I am that I have found your blog. I am about your size and have the hardest time finding clothes that fit. I'm so excited for your tips and success stories 🙂
Love the outfit. What brand are the necklaces?
You look so perf! Absolutely love your blog & new follower 😀
http://www.stylefile.in
Thank you for the kind words! I got sz 24/00P, my thighs are around 16" and the jeans fit well for a "casual" style. Thanks for the tip on Zara kids…they definitely have some cute stuff from time to time that works on adults!
Hi Ellen – aside from the base shaper, when i'm not using it I just stuff it with an oversized scarf to keep it "filled"
So glad you liked them, Celena! I was surprisingly pleased with the blazer since the other J.Crew Schoolboy I have is from several years ago. The updated fit is pretty good!
Yes it unfortunately it sheer, and some lines will show even with my nude bra. I guess that is what you get for the price…have you tried the Pleione version at Nordstrom?
Hi Yukari – I'd pick the Prada because I like the overall silhouette better. The shape is very elegant and I love the option to wear it on the crook of the arm, holding the handles, or with the shoulder strap. Good luck shopping for one that you'll love!
So glad you like it! Going to try your pairing next with some of my bright trousers : )
You're too funny! I'll be sure to pass along that compliment to the photographer ; )
Thank you, Anna! I'd say yes for h&M;, if you're familiar with their sizing. I took an H&M; sz 2/32 which fits narrower and smaller than 00 in American brands.
I love you and your style so much. We have essentially the same measurements except I am about an 1/2 inch bigger. I was wondering which size you get in Gap jeans, and if it's not too outlandish of a request what your thigh measurement is (for a size gage). Also today I went to Zara and got a tweed dress in the kids section for $45, I think you should check it out.
I love those drape front surplus tops but have not been able to find a flattering one. I remember seeing the white H&M; one at the store after you featured the Pleione one, but didn't buy it! I am kicking myself in the foot now!
http://misshotcouture.blogspot.com
Basics are the best! I feel the exact same way, and find myself gravitating more and more to basics on a daily basis. They're the only thing I feel comfortable splurging on in fashion, because I know that I won't get tired of basic pieces the same way I do with trendy ones! I just published a report touting the virtues of basics on my own blog!
xo, Jilli
https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4894969
http://www.justjilli.com
These are such perfect basics…especially for this season..love the hat and scarf pairings..
xo
http://agoldentulip.blogspot.com/
http://agoldentulip.blogspot.com/
Gotta love basics! Whenever I don't know what to wear basics are always a good idea. By the way, your hair is absolutely beautiful!
basics are certainly going to be my go to when it comes to fall! I love a great scarf and blazer combo. thanks for sharing this! xx. gigi. http://www.gigikkitchen.com
Oh I cannot tell you how much I love this look!!! And being 5'1 I appreciate all your attention to petite sizing!
Hope
hchdeisgns.blogspot.com
I love that last look with the leopard flats and the scarf. Very simple and chic! I love the blouse.
Style by Joules
Really appreciate this wonderful post that you have provided for us.Great site and a great topic as well i really get amazed to read this. Its really good.
I have you on my reader so I rarely comment, but I clicked over for this one – i LOVE how you styled this several different ways. I have a large tan scarf I never wear and the simplicity of pairing it with a white blouse and jeans is so classy! Great post.
i love it, I have the same pants and blazer, love the white blouse… thank you thank you for putting these together to give me ideas
Hi, Jean! I like this outfit and the last photo ;).
hi jean,
I have the same bag and I was just wondering how you store it to keep it's lovely shape. I have a bag shaper for the bottom but I was wondering about the sides. Thanks!
~E
I adore this outfit, so gorgeous.
The jeans and shoes are amazing, beautifully put together.
Amelia Rose | Beauty Blogger
x
Love this look. I have the same shirt in navy and am obsessed with it. Love the hat as well!
xo
Kels
http://www.excusemyblog.com
I bought the blouse/blazer based on your reviews from your past posts and actually wore the same outfit (w/ birkis instead of heels) this weekend. Love classics. Thanks for recommending these key pieces, I know they'll be staples.
jean i tried on that wrap blouse in store and hated how sheer the back was. Do you wear a nude camisole underneath? Seems so bulky because there's already a half-tank top built in for the front!
love all 3 looks! especially the one with the hat! I was craving for some fall outfits… thank you! <3
xoxo
Mady
thegirlfromthemirror.blogspot.com
Jean – I loved your video post on your Prada purse and see that it's part of your basics ensemble. I saw in prior posts that you have the Goyard Marquises bag. Which bag do you prefer and why? If you could only have one of then which one would you keep? I'm in the market for a new purse and am considering both (but will only buy one!) Thanks!
Gotta love a good basic look. The combination of jeans and blazer never disappoints.
Red Reticule
Chic and timeless. Glad to hear the H&M; narrower size.
Naty Ponders
I really love that hat on you!
Such a pretty outfit, clothes that I would love to wear! That blouse is killer, it's very beautiful.
Carpet cleaning Dartford
Love this outfit, especially those loafers! Thank you for sharing!
Hey Jean! I bought this H&M; top after seeing it on your blog a while back and I love it! The flowy top is so casual chic even over jeans, and I've been dressing it up with bright colored pants and big jewelry. Thank you for the tip!
You can never go wrong with navy and camel. Really love those delicate necklaces you are wearing!
Elysia
inspirely.me
Love your outfit! You look stunning!
XX
Miri
http://currentlywearing.com
I absolutely love this outfit…that white wrap blouse is perfect! Can't wait to order and pair with my favorite fall pencil skirts!
xoxo,
Andrea
http://www.andreaeveryday.com
That white H&M; blouse is so gorgeous – hope I see it in store! Love your advice about stocking up on navy, white and camel basics – they really do give off such a refined vibe!
I definitely need to expand on my wardrobe basics, you really do look effortless!
Nidhi
An Unblurred Lady
lol, I once thought if i ever get married, I would love to hire you and Nick for engagement pictures, since your blog photos are always top notch amazing!
Lovely outfit!! So glad that I have similar pieces in my closet. Please do a fall lookbook..;)
Shenu
Really enjoy seeing a chic outfit paired with a blazer and distressed jeans. I got some Madewell ponyhaired leopard printed flats. x
Cynthia
http://www.pinchofchic.com
I agree, I always revert back to distressed boyfriend jeans since they're so comfy but can still be dressed up. I love the last styled look in the last photo, simply Fall chic with the leopard accent shoes, beige scarf, and black felt hat! So perfect!
Suzie Q
http://www.StyleCueBySuzieQ.com
Hi Jean! Love the outfit. Would you say the blouse runs true to size?
Such a beautiful and chic look! When in doubt, it's just better to go back to the basics. is what I always say!
http://shewearsshetravels.blogspot.com
Love these basics! Looking so chic<3
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