Jeans and a cute top: the ultimate outfit formula. So why is it sometimes so hard to get right?
It’s the inevitable question in the girls’ group chat before a night out: “What are you wearing?” The answer is usually jeans and a cute top, obviously. A classic for a reason, but somehow, getting those two seemingly simple pieces to work together can be trickier than it sounds.
So, what actually makes a top cute? Something lacy? A little sheer? Off-the-shoulder? RMN Studios founder and creative director Penny Styles knows a thing or two about creating a standout top, and says it all comes down to getting the proportions right.
“Proportion is everything when it comes to making an outfit feel right,” says Penny. “If you’re wearing a more oversized top, a slimmer jean can balance it out, whereas a baggy jean looks great with something cropped or more fitted. That said, I love oversized on oversized, as long as you’re conscious of the shape and how the pieces sit together. It’s about creating a silhouette that feels balanced.”
Then there’s the sandwich method (and no, it’s not food-related). It’s a simple styling trick that repeats a colour at the top and bottom of your outfit, with a different shade in between.
Think a black top and black heels paired with navy jeans, or a white top teamed with white sneakers. It’s an easy way to make a look feel more considered.
Penny agrees that the trick is all about creating harmony. “This method keeps a look feeling cohesive without being overstimulating with too many colours or competing elements. Repeating colours at the top and bottom just makes sense, it pulls an outfit together and makes the whole look feel effortless.”
Accessories can work in the same way, too. A bag, belt or pair of shoes that picks up a shade from your top is a simple finishing touch.
Speaking of accessories, never underestimate their power. A statement belt, bold earrings, a great bag or pointed-toe heels can take even the simplest jeans-and-top combination from basic to seriously chic.
And if you’re heading straight from daytime plans to drinks, a quick outfit switch-up can make all the difference. Swap ballet flats for heels, add a spring jacket and you’re ready for whatever the evening brings.
So, what tops should we be adding to cart?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to the jeans-and-a-cute-top formula. Whether you prefer something fitted, floaty or a little more daring, it’s all about finding what works for you. And while the perfect outfit doesn’t always mean buying something new, a cute top or two never hurts. Here’s what’s caught our eye…
Classic jeans we’re wearing:
