Gone are the days of a go-to outfit of denim cut-offs and tank tops during summer time. The classic, laid-back duo may have sufficed during our teen years spent at the mall, but our grown-up days are in need of something slightly more put-together to navigate the streets in style. While there’s nothing wrong per se with sporting a variation of the casual get-up for occasions like an afternoon stroll in the park, take you to dinner and cocktails it will not. Luckily, pieces need not be fussy to be rendered effective. Even a garment as simple as a timeless white button-down can be made exponentially more glamorous with the right pairings. In order to beat the heat looking incredibly chic, fashionistas ought to arm themselves with a few no-fail basics to compile endless outfit possibilities well through the fall and winter months.

While button-down blouses may read far from sexy in a world filled with booty shorts and crop tops, the classic silhouette makes for a fabulously versatile piece to pair with anything from shorts to a flowing maxi skirt. The trick to making this garment appear sexier than usual is to sport one boasting the perfect fit and cut. Tuck a slim-fit blouse into a maxi and leave a few buttons undone to create an of-the-minute deep V-neck. Or, take cues from super model Kristy and combine a classic blouse with distressed boyfriend jeans and ankle-strap pumps to exercise the coolest of contrasts. To up the ante on the look, accent the area with a few delicate necklaces and top things off with a wide-brimmed floppy hat to take the look to entirely new heights of laid-back luxury.
You may have already taken an oath to shun the denim skirt for the entirety of the trend, but don’t be so quick to judge this fabulous blast from the past. Denim skirts can easily take a turn for high-fashion when paired with the right garments. From chambray button-downs to a basic white tank top, denim skirts make for an uber stylish look when the sun is beating down on the pavement and a pair of denim jeans just won’t do. Top the look off with an adorable fedora and a pair of lace-up oxfords for an ensemble showcasing an impeccable sense of style.

Leather and summer don’t usually mix, but think outside the box to let your fashionista flag fly freely this season. A cool, leather motorcycle vest may not be the most practical to beat the sweltering heat, but the piece can look ridiculously chic when taken for a night time spin. To nail a rock n’ roll look perfect for anything from an outdoor concert to late night dancing, denim cut-offs, a black tank and a moto vest will do the trick. Opt for faded ankle booties to keep true to the laid-back vibe the season is most beloved for.