10 of my Smart Casual Wardrobe Must-haves

With Fall around the corner, I’ve been looking over my most-worn summer pieces and planning easy ways to transition them for next season. For example, this black top and Everlane cheeky jeans in Ecru have been bestsellers on here over the past few months, and create a solid “base outfit” that’s easy to layer with as we ease into cooler weather. With this base outfit in mind, here’s a list of 10 wardrobe staples for creating different smart casual looks across the seasons using minimal pieces!

I also shared a video of each of these looks over on Instagram!

1. Off White Straight Jeans

I’m wearing: Everlane jeans (I also own the “worn in mid blue” wash!)

I got the 26″ inseam and have the hems folded under 2 inches. See this post for a quick DIY way to shorten these.

The soft cream color on these is perfect for wearing across multiple seasons, plus the solid wash can also pass as chinos and works for either a casual or smart casual work wardrobe. The high rise straight leg cut is timeless, and the color feels fresh in the summer and has a cozy winter white feel for colder months without looking too starkly white.

2. Elevated Black Tee

I’m wearing: Express no-tuck top (see my review)

Just an easy top without the fuss of tucking in and out throughout the day. The slight shoulder pads on this also add some structure and elevate the look from a basic black tee.

3. Polished belt

I’m wearing: Celine belt sz 70 (fits the same as our EP belt in xxs)

If you tend to wear a lot of solid colors and basic pieces, a sharp belt can really elevate the outfit.

The Celine belt is a splurge but you guys know the Edited Pieces belt is my everyday go-to! And you get double the versatility since it’s reversible. If your size is sold out, we have a full restock coming September so please sign up for restock notifications since we use that info to place our re-orders.

4. Neutral pumps

I’m wearing our Edited Pieces cap toe slingbacks, but a simple and sleek neutral pump like these Ann Taylor suede pumps or these Sam Edelman leather heels are great choices if you’re looking to have one go-to pump in your wardrobe. I have quite a few pairs of nude heels and these continue to be 2 of my most reached-for styles!

5. Striped Sweater

I’m wearing Banana Republic above (similar), but also check out Alex Mill (wear it 2 ways) and Sezane.

A striped knit is a great piece to layer into this mix, as it adds elements of pattern and texture if you wear it draped over the shoulders or tied around the waist. Or, wear it simply with the straight leg jeans for an effortless casual outfit.

If you intend on spending a little more to get 1 or 2 high quality knits, I have found my Sezane Leontine + Jazz sweaters to be worth the splurge. Everything from the semi oversized, slouchy cuts to the button details and knit fabric feel carefully designed and well made. Alex Mill also makes a beautiful chunky striped knit that can be worn as a button-down cardigan, too.

6. White Sneakers

Practical and stylish, a pair of clean white leather sneakers is great for everyday errands, more casual work places, or travel.

Favorites: Everlane, Veja Esplar, Sam Edelman. See my “Veja” story highlights on Instagram and this blog post for how I make my sneakers more comfy for prolonged everyday wear.

7. Trench Coat

The trench coats in my wardrobe have been the MVPs terms of style longevity and carry me through from Spring to Fall. Several of my trenches that I got 5, even 10 years ago still get wear, though I will say I gravitate more toward my longer ones now with a looser fit instead of slim. Mine here is old BR, but you can find petite trench coat options at J.Crew and Mango makes a very classic midi length trench starting in size XXS.

8. Loafers

My Sam Edelman loafers continue to get regular wear and are a very comfortable and affordable alternative to the Gucci Jordaan loafers (my review). Pair them casually with jeans, or dress them up for a business casual workplace.

9. Tailored Coat

This Mango coat from a few years ago, but they have a very similar style as part of their newest Fall collection. Sizes XXS and XS in their coats tend to go quickly once Fall rolls around, so I suggest shopping early if you have your eye on something.

Also check A+F which has petite, standard and tall sizing in their outerwear. This coat is also pretty similar to mine, on sale and comes in 3 neutral colors!

10. Slim shaft booties

Either slim at the shaft (like these Blondo booties) or “sock style” booties for a more ankle hugging fit. Slimmer styles like these fit best under straight or wider leg jeans and pants. My boots are old Stuart Weitzman’s but I have tried on these Amazon ones and they are a great dupe and hug the ankles comfortably.