In the 1990s and early 2000s, I wore a lot of Gap chinos. All colors. Usually with a t-shirt or a button down. Then, the style faded away, and I developed an affinity for wearing dresses and moved on. But like so many things from yesteryear, chinos are back for summer.
When I spotted this street style photo on Pinterest, I thought about how easy the look was. ?How it seemed pulled together, but unfussy. ?It could be worn in a home office, in a business casual setting, or on a springtime casual Friday. ?Here’s how to recreate it.
Pants // If you’re looking for an alternative to athleisure or jeans, these soft, simple chinos are it. ? This pair from J.Crew Factory come in a lovely pale spinach color (sizes run 0-24). ?LOFT has a softer rosemary color in a straight leg style. ?For a modern style, try this olive pair from Anthro with a larger pocket and more relaxed look.
Love the color but not on board with chinos? ?These Gap sage jeans??are a nice option. ?I also noticed that the Athleta Endless pants come in a sage green color.
Shirt // To soften the look of a button down shirt, I like a banded collar style. ?It’s a little more relaxed. ?This style from Land’s End fits more like a popover and is a very affordable price. ?Tuckernuck has a similar shirt from Rochelle Behrens that is a more traditional button-down style. ?Looking for an easy wearing, machine washable style? ?Aday’s shirt is an influencer favorite.
Sweater // I swapped the navy coat for a long navy sweater blazer. ?This sweater from Nordstrom Rack comes in several colors and is super affordable. ?It’s the perfect work from home sweater.
Shoes // The ankle strap sandal is a style that was at the height of its popularity in the mid-2010s. ?This airy, woven style from Boden is more modern than the photo style. ?For my money, I think these Madewell ballet flats with a woven look are the ones I would choose.
Bag // I wrote about this Michael Kors crossbody last week. ?I ordered it in orange, and while I was a little disappointed in the color, I loved the bag. ?It is so useful. ?Slides into another bag easily. ?Holds all the essentials. ?The exterior phone case is a plus for a parent who wants to be able to snap photos without digging in their purse. ?Plus, it’s $79. ?I’ve bought fast fashion bags that cost more and weren’t anywhere near as well-made or useful. ?I’ve told every woman I know to buy one, then have the Michael Kors logo removed and replaced with a simple plaque.
Accessories // These Lagos earrings are an awesome option for an every day stud. ?I love the mix of textures. ?At $275, they’re what I would call a birthday gift price, but they’re fab. ?For something less pricey, try these silver love-knot earrings are worth a look.
These Quay sunglasses are chic. ?I adore the mix of the aviator style with the tortoise acetate. ?
Styling // The low ponytail is a good look. ?It’s very relaxed and chic. ?I would also just wear my hair down, in the way I style it every day. ?This whole look is meant to be simple and light, so nothing over done.
For the makeup, I LOVE these Summer Friday lip colors. ?This Lip Butter Balm in Brown Sugar is my very favorite. ?Not sticky, hydrating, perfect for every day.
