What jeans to wear Spotlight Week! Try a casual chic update to your everyday jeans with Saint Laurent inspiration

What jeans to wear Spotlight Week!  As we start to think about fall, let’s re-look at this very classic, yet chic way to update your everyday jeans look. As a matter of fact, the ability to find YOUR chic in any style is what I teach in the C’est Chic Crash Course.

I’ll Have What She’s Having: Irresistible casual denim with uptown styling (on a budget!)

It’s pretty easy to look chic in everyday, runaround jeans when your outfit tally is in the stratosphere. But how do YOU update everyday jeans without breaking the bank? I’ll show you…

Of course, there’s a certain sense of eliteness to be able to afford a TOTAL design jeans look like this: Saint Laurent midrise skinny jeans in a dark gray wash ($490),  Saint Laurent denim shirt ($550), Saint Laurent leather skinny belt ($425), Saint Laurent suede ankle boots with silver buckle ($1275), and the bag that I am jonesing for, Saint Laurent Classic Duffle 6 leather bag ($2,150).

But, really, you don’t need to the beaucoup bucks… just the inspiration for a cheap chic dressed down look that both weekend and city worthy. Every piece I’m swapping out the Saint Laurent for is $200 or under.

Let’s start with a structured bag to add sophistication and some urban style. The modern duffle bag is making a stong shape statement this season but any classic style will do the trick.

Viparo Spencer Leather Duffle Bag in Black
Viparo Spencer Leather Duffle Bag in Black

Bonus TIP:  A structured bag will take you from the office to dinner to the playground (look for one with a detachable shoulder strap) all without having to fuss with a daily bag change. but not skimping on style.

MORE : Casual chic how-to’s

ASOS APOCALYPSE Leather Chelsea Ankle Boots
ASOS APOCALYPSE Leather Chelsea Ankle Boots… the simplicity of these will endure for seasons to come

Every wardrobe should include a pair of stacked, mid heel ankle boots. I like a black, leather or suede, with minimal to no hardware so it goes with everything, like these above.

DEREK LAM Ankle boots side buckle closure, narrow toeline, wedge heel, and on sale!
DEREK LAM Ankle boots side buckle closure, narrow toeline, wedge heel, and on sale!

Once you have your basics covered, then go for a higher heel with some buckle detail. I like these wedge ones by Derek Lam.

Pepe Jeans Denim Shirt
Pepe Jeans Denim Shirt

A fitted, snap front denim shirt in a medium wash, like this one from Pepe Jeans,  will serve you will for years. Dress it up, dress it down… it’s all in the accessories.

Fade to Blue Faded Skinny Jeans, Gray
Fade to Blue Faded Skinny Jeans, Gray

Dark gray or soft black jeans look more chic when paired with a denim shirt and look less matchy-matchy.

Tell me in the comments below, how else would you style this outfit?

:: DON’T FORGET TO READ: Ageless ways to style your jeans a la Christy Brinkley

:: MORE: Jeans

Original Publish date:  Feb 18, 2014

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