If you find yourself reaching for the same outfit every day (à la Mister Rogers), it’s time to step outside your comfort zone. The good news? All you need is a little inspiration and a few stylish pieces to get started.
We’re making things easy with five simple tips to help you put together a fabulous outfit on the go — plus, we’ve curated fresh, fun pieces to mix and match with. And the best part? They’re all available at Chico’s. Trust us — these statement pieces and buildable basics are the styles every woman should have in her wardrobe.
1. Build your outfit around one statement piece
We all have those bold, beautiful items in our closet that call to us like a siren’s song, yet figuring out how to wear them can feel overwhelming. So why not make that statement piece the star of the show? Whether it’s a jewel-toned blouse, a vibrant pair of heels, or some eye-catching earrings, a single bold piece is a sure-fire way to make your outfit feel intentional and well-curated. By allowing that statement item to take center stage, you achieve a balanced yet eye-catching look without overwhelming your ensemble. This way, you can make a statement — without saying a word.
Gabby Raffia Mule
Chico’s
These mules rule, and they deserve to be the main event. The embroidery gives them a custom-made look, while the memory foam-padded sock design ensures all-day comfort. Pair them with a tee and cropped jeans or a simple cotton dress that complements one of the many woven colors, and you’ll be dressed to impress.
Chico’s Originals Long Turquoise Stone Convertible Necklace
Chico’s
Let’s be honest — this necklace is so beautiful, you could wear it with a trash bag and nobody would notice (although we don’t suggest it). In fact, this piece is such a crowd-pleaser that the brand re-issued it this season. Since it’s an attention-grabber, keep the rest of your outfit understated and let your accessory do the talking. Pair it with a beige or white linen dress, and you’ve got yourself a fashion masterpiece. But make sure to scoop this necklace up quick — since it’s a limited re-issue, it won’t be around forever.
Travelers™ Collection Floral Jacquard Jacket
Chico’s
Slipping on this jacket will instantly boost your confidence, readying you to take on any glamorous challenge. With its versatile blue-and-white design, it pairs effortlessly with so many pieces. Even when worn casually, the jacket’s silhouette adds a touch of elegance to even the simplest look.
2. Play with proportions
Forget everything you know about clothing length — it’s time to break the rules. While you don’t have to go so far as rocking a midriff-bearing top (unless you want to!), mixing and matching different lengths and silhouettes can actually bring balance to an outfit. Try pairing a cropped sweater with high-waisted pants or tucking a loose blouse into a fitted skirt. This allows you to create a flattering, balanced shape that can accentuate whatever you’re feeling confident about that day, while adding a playful touch of contrast. By experimenting with proportions, you can transform a simple outfit into something stylish, modern, and uniquely you.
Girlfriend Frayed Cropped Jeans
Chico’s
As spring approaches, it’s time to show a little ankle. We love these jeans for their slight crop and frayed hem, which add a youthful, carefree touch. Chico’s’ Girlfriend jeans offer a more feminine take on the popular boyfriend style — they sit higher on the waist, hug your curves, and maintain a slightly relaxed fit. (And for the record, compared to boyfriend jeans, they have a slimmer fit in the legs.)
Double-Breasted Cropped Trench Coat
Chico’s
Isn’t this just the cutest little trench coat that’s ever existed? This jacket puts a fun twist on a classic silhouette — adding a fresh, feminine touch to a traditionally masculine style. Wear it over a maxi dress for a bit of structure, or pair it with pants or a skirt to soften the lines. The styling possibilities are endless.
Pleated A-Line Midi Skirt
Chico’s
Pairing a flowy linen skirt with a baggy top can overwhelm your body, no matter your size. Instead, try it with a button-down blouse, either tucked in or tied where the skirt hits at your natural waistline, and you have a recipe for proportion perfection. And since it’s a neutral, we suggest pairing it with an eye-catching color on top.
3. Master the art of mix-and-match
Here’s an easy way to expand your wardrobe: pair unexpected items together, to unlock endless outfit possibilities. Wearing multiple colors, materials, or even patterns in one look can be a fun and dynamic way to express your personal style, once you get the hang of it. Whether you’re mixing bold prints with subtle neutrals, layering textures like leather and silk, or experimenting with complementary color schemes, the key is finding a balance that feels intentional — even if you stumble upon it by accident. With a little practice, you’ll be creating outfits that will make you feel cool, confident, and effortlessly chic.
Sequin Short-Sleeved Cardigan
Chico’s
If you’re just looking to dip your toe into the mix-and-match waters, this is a perfect starter piece. Both the teakwood and pink colors are fairly neutral, but the sequins add a sparkly surprise. Not sure how to wear it? Treat it like a solid when planning the rest of your outfit, and you’ll look like you were dressed by a personal stylist.
Brigitte™ Abstract Floral Slub Pants
Chico’s
These watercolor pants are like a jaw-dropping work of art. And if that makes you the museum, it’s only fitting to showcase a few other standout pieces alongside them. With a palette of maroon, magenta, mint, and orange, you have plenty to work with — try pairing them with hot pink pumps or even a white leather jacket. These pants are your invitation to get creative.
No Iron™ Plaid Tie-Front Top
Chico’s
While this might seem like too bold of a pattern to pair with another bold color or print, the good news is that its black and white design makes it easy to match with virtually any other hue. This top is part of Chico’s’ No Iron line, which means you can bunch it up into a suitcase all you want without adding a single wrinkle to your day. Try pairing it with a large pattern on the bottom, like an oversized polka dot skirt.
4. Make it monochrome
Sticking to one all-over color palette might sound cookie-cutter, but trust us — when done right, it’s anything but ordinary. A monochrome outfit doesn’t have to be limited to neutrals like beige or black — step outside the box with shades like light green, burgundy, or cerulean blue. And don’t be afraid to combine different shades and textures of the same color; it helps avoid an overly “matchy-matchy” look while keeping your look polished and playful. Want to make it even easier? Organize your closet by color so you can just grab and go.
Zenergy® Beach Slub Funnel Neck Pullover Top and Slub Cropped Pants
Chico’s
Monochrome in Moroccan mint? Yes, please! There are a million reasons to love this outfit, but we’ll keep it simple: Even though this outfit will make you look dressed to the nines, it’s actually athleisure. Made from stretch material, it’s comfortable regardless of what the day may bring, and if you’re outdoors, the fabric offers UV protection. Pair this outfit with classic white sneakers and get ready to take on the world.
Wrap Belt Poplin Midi Shirtdress
Chico’s
Have you ever seen a dress in a more stunning shade of blue? We didn’t think so. Given how eye-catching this hue is, there’s no reason to add anything that might detract from its pigmented perfection. We suggest pairing it with these No Droop Blue Fringe Hoop Earrings to add a bit of edge to a preppy style without stealing the spotlight from the dress. And go ahead and pop on some blue shoes underneath.
5. Add texture for depth
If mixing multiple textures and fabrics in an outfit brings to mind your frazzled middle school art teacher, it’s time for a palette cleanser. And hey, maybe she was on to something — mixing textures can elevate your outfit and add dimension without overwhelming it. Try pairing a chiffon blouse with a textured jacket or layering a knit sweater over a sleek pencil skirt. The contrast of materials creates visual interest, turning an otherwise unremarkable outfit to new heights. But beware — a perfectly textured look might have your friends wanting to touch everything you’re wearing!
Juliet Jacquard Kick Flare Pants
Chico’s
The subtle sheen and luster of a jacquard print, especially on a pair of pants, adds a pop of texture in an unexpected way. All of Chico’s Juliet pants earn five stars in the texture department: They’re made with a luxurious double-knit fabric that offers the perfect mix of softness and structure, and they offer compression while still being comfortable. And since the one texture we recommend avoiding is wrinkles, you’ll love that these pants are both wrinkle-free and machine-washable.
Travelers™ Collection Bubble Hem Chiffon Blouse
Chico’s
There’s nothing more romantic than a chiffon blouse, and this one is no exception. The delicate bubble hem gives the sleeves an ethereal, almost angel wing-like effect, while the deep blue hue paired with chunky gold jewelry offers a stunning contrast in texture. This blouse is part of the Travelers collection, meaning it’s crafted from comfortable, wrinkle-resistant fabric, making it an ideal blouse for a gal on the go.
Belted Paisley Patch Maxi Shirtdress
Chico’s
Talk about texture! This patchwork paisley is so pretty, you just want to reach out and touch every panel. Made from a flowy crepe material, it has a multi-dimensional look while staying super soft. Pair it with a cropped leather jacket, and you might catch yourself sneaking glances in the mirror every chance you get.
