Casual wear is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and style. Whether you’re having coffee with friends or just going to the grocery store, the right casual outfit will make you feel great in more ways than one. Casual clothes can of course be tricky to nail.

Going too casual can make your outfit look a little sloppy. Too dressy, on the other hand, and your look won’t be casual at all. Luckily, we’re here to help you find the perfect outfit that’s both relaxed and stylish. Here are our 10 casual style tips for women.

1. Think comfort first

The great thing about casual clothing is that comfort comes first. So forget about too-tight jeans, uncomfortable tops and heels. Instead, lean in comfortable garments that move with you. We’re talking lounge pants, jeans, T-shirts, sweaters and relaxed dresses and skirts.

2. Choose your fabrics wisely

A casual outfit calls for the right fabrics. After all, bringing a chiffon dress and a leather jacket to school doesn’t work. A cotton T-shirt dress and denim jacket, on the other hand, will look perfect.

We recommend choosing fabrics such as comfortable cotton and breathable, high-quality linen that is soft rather than scratchy. For fitted pieces, such as jeans, look for fabrics with at least a little elastane for stretch.

3. Choose relaxed layers

When you need some extra warmth, don’t forget to keep your look on point with relaxed layers. Not sure where to start? Why not wear a classic crew neck jumper over a tank top or a cozy cardigan over a t-shirt? Casual jackets, such as denim and bomber styles, can also work well. As for what not to wear, we recommend avoiding fitted blazers and structured jackets, which work better with more formal clothing styles.

4. When in doubt, go for denim

If you’re not sure what to wear for a casual outing, know that you can always rely on denim. Denim has been a casual essential for decades and can’t hurt.

From your favorite pair of jeans to a flattering denim skirt or a denim jacket that you can wear anywhere, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just add a basic t-shirt and sneakers to complete your look!

5. Don’t forget your shoes

Shoes can make or break an outfit. For a casual look, choose shoes that match the overall style of your ensemble. For the summer, sandals can be an excellent option. Dressier than thongs and more relaxed than heels, sandals offer a chic yet understated look that’s perfect for smart-casual looks. Likewise, sneakers are another fantastic option. We love a clean, white pair for a fresh take on casual wear.

Perfect all year round, you can wear them with everything from jeans to shorts, dresses and even casual dresses. While sandals are great for summer and sneakers are ideal for all seasons, boots are an excellent choice in winter. A classic ankle boot with a flat or low heel is especially a great go-to for all your weekend looks during the cold months.

6. Know your color palette

Casual clothes are easier for those who have a color palette that is easy to match. We recommend stocking up on important basics in neutral colors that go well with everything. These pieces will be the foundation of your casual closet. We’re talking about items like T-shirts, tank tops, cotton jumpers and lounge pants in colors like white, grey, black and navy blue.

These pieces can then be worn on their own for a minimalist style or enhanced with a fashionable color or print for a more dressed up look. To do this, pick an item that will be the focus of your look, such as a purple top or striped pants that you can then snag with your basics for a balanced, casual look.

7. Invest in a Flattering Cotton T-Shirt

Comfortable and classic, a cotton t-shirt is the foundation of so many great casual outfits. Whether it’s jeans and boots or a relaxed skirt and sneakers, this timeless essential always looks and feels great. Of course, your old, stretched and faded t-shirt won’t always fit if you’re looking for a stylish look, so invest in a t-shirt that fits and flatters your body.

If you have a small bust, you may want to try a crew-neck style for a neat look, while if your bust is large, a V-shape or a crew-neck may suit you better.

Do you want to put together the perfect wardrobe? Discover the 15 wardrobe basics every woman should have here.

8. Mark your assets

Your casual outfit should be comfortable, but also flattering. To make sure this is the case, try using your clothes to highlight your best features. For example, if you like your legs, a relaxed T-shirt dress that ends at or above the knee is an excellent option.

If you like your bust, try loose lounge pants paired with a fitted tee or low-cut tank top. Either way, the goal is to add some definition to your silhouette and avoid flooding your frame with loose fabrics. If you prefer a loose top and bottom, consider adding definition by tucking your top in at the front or showing a little skin, such as with a V-neckline or pants.

9. Find the right balance

As we said, a stylish casual outfit is all about finding the right balance. To do this, aim for a look that is both relaxed and fashionable. Something you feel comfortable in but also looks chic will nail the aesthetics.

As mentioned, denim is always a safe bet, but it’s not your only option. Everyday basics with an elevated twist can also look great. From lounge pants with a striped waistband to T-shirts with a print, there is plenty to choose from.

10. Finish with accessories

The right accessories can really complete an outfit. For a casual look, leave your blingy jewelry at home and opt for delicate pieces that are understated yet classy instead. And don’t stop there. A chic printed crossbody bag or scarf can really enhance an everyday ensemble and take it to the next level.

Casual clothes don’t have to be boring. For everyday essentials with a twist, check out whiteandco.com.au†

I am the head of digital and e-commerce at White & Co. A native of Melbourne, I have worked in the fashion industry my entire career and love what I do. Besides my work I like a good cup of coffee, a walk in the sun, reading a good book and shopping online.