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Sometimes the simplest outfits are the ones we wear the most, don’t you think?
A pair of black jeans and a white shirt might sound a little boring, but today I’m going to show you how a few small changes can make this basic outfit look completely different!
I’m starting with a pair of black jeans and a white long-sleeved waffle-knit shirt from Coldwater Creek. Both are comfortable, easy to wear, and perfect for mixing and matching with things you already have in your closet.
Then I’m adding a few accessories, my favorite denim jacket, and even a plaid shirt tied around my waist!
Yes, you read that right! And I think it’s kind of fun!
1. Start With the Basics: Black Jeans and a White Shirt
First, here’s the outfit without any accessories.
Just a simple white waffle-knit shirt and black jeans.
Nothing fancy, but that’s exactly why I love it. These are the kinds of pieces you can wear again and again in so many different ways.
The waffle texture gives the white shirt a little extra interest, and black jeans are such a nice alternative to traditional blue denim.
I also love that both pieces work with just about any color you want to add.
Style tip: When you’re starting with basics, think of your outfit as a blank canvas. It’s amazing what a scarf, jacket, or necklace can do!
2. Add a Side Tuck and a Pretty Scarf
Now let’s make one little change.
I tucked just the side of my white shirt into my jeans and added a colorful scarf around my neck.
What a difference!
The side tuck gives the shirt a little more shape without having to tuck the whole thing in. I especially like this because it keeps the outfit relaxed and comfortable.
And the scarf adds some color and personality right up near my face.
This is such an easy trick when you feel like your outfit needs just a little something extra.
3. Throw on a Denim Jacket
Next, I added my trusty denim jacket.
You know how much I love a good denim jacket! It’s one of those pieces I reach for over and over again.
The blue denim looks great against the black jeans, and the white shirt keeps everything looking fresh.
With the scarf still around my neck, this outfit feels a little more finished, but it’s still completely casual.
I could wear this for lunch with girlfriends, shopping, traveling, or just running errands.
And of course, I’m wearing my favorite red sneakers! I love that little pop of color.
4. Try Something Different With a Plaid Shirt
Okay, now here’s where I decided to have a little fun!
I removed the scarf and tied a red, black, and white plaid blouse around my waist.
I know some of you might be thinking, “Karin, I’m not sure about that look!”
Haha! And that’s okay!
But I actually think it’s a fun way to change up a basic outfit, especially when you’re dressing casually.
The plaid adds color and pattern, and it gives the outfit a more relaxed, playful feel.
I kept the denim jacket and switched out the scarf for a colorful necklace.
I love how the red in the plaid shirt ties in with my red sneakers, too.
And here’s another bonus: if I get chilly, I can untie the plaid blouse and wear it as another layer.
Sometimes fashion should just be fun, don’t you think?
5. Finish With a Quilted Bag and a Little Christmas Cheer
For the finishing touches, I added my black quilted bag from Coldwater Creek.
I love the soft, puffy texture, and it’s such a great everyday bag.
But my favorite little detail might be the Christmas tree pin I attached to it!
Isn’t that a cute idea?
Instead of wearing the pin on my jacket, I decided to dress up my bag with it. It’s such a simple way to add a little holiday cheer without going overboard.
I finished the outfit with my sunglasses, and just like that, my basic black jeans and white shirt became a fun, casual outfit with a little personality!
Fashion Over 50 Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that you don’t need a lot of clothing to have fun with fashion.
Sometimes all it takes is changing how you tuck your shirt, adding a scarf, switching your jewelry, or trying a different layer.
And don’t be afraid to experiment!
Not every style is going to be everyone’s favorite, but that’s the fun of fashion. We get to wear what makes us feel good.
Whether you prefer the simple black jeans and white shirt, the scarf and denim jacket, or the playful plaid shirt around the waist, there’s no right or wrong answer.
Wear what you love!
Shop My Coldwater Creek Outfit
Several of the pieces I’m wearing are from Coldwater Creek, including:
- Black jeans
- White long-sleeved waffle-knit shirt
- Red, black, and white plaid blouse
- Black quilted bag
- Christmas tree pin
Shop my Coldwater Creek outfit on LTK
Here is my quick video
The denim jacket, scarves, necklaces, and red sneakers are pieces I already own and love.
If you’re looking for more outfit inspiration, visit my Fashion for Women Over 50 page, where I share comfortable, wearable styles for everyday life.
Now tell me, which look is your favorite?
The simple basics, the scarf and denim jacket, or the plaid shirt tied around the waist?
And be honest—would you try the plaid shirt look? I’d love to know!
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