Welcome to the Nothing To Wear Edit, where we unpack the topic discussed in the latest episode. This week Leigh Campbell is joined by stylist and content creator Sally McKinnon, who shares the subtle styling tweaks that transform an outfit — and how you can implement them in your own daily looks.
Recently, the Nothing To Wear team received a listener dilemma that all millennials of a certain age can relate to.
"Are we still doing the half-tuck with the shirt anymore, or is that trend over?"
For years, we've relied on this little styling trick to add a certain je ne sais quois to our outfits. Often called the 'French tuck', it's a dependable way to give a button-down shirt or tee some shape. Right?
But according to the Gen-Z arbiters of taste on TikTok, it's over. Done. They're telling us the new styling flex is leaving your shirt… untucked.
Which, understandably, has caused some confusion. It feels innate, doing the tuck. What are we supposed to do with our tops now? How will we look effortless and polished at the same time?
Sometimes it's these tiny tweaks that can have the biggest impact on our outfits, and affect our confidence as we move through the world.
We all want to feel stylish, but what should we be doing with our clothes now to give off that "just threw this on" air?
I've been untucking my oversized shirts for a while now, and though it feels counter-intuitive sometimes, it does look fresher (but the tuck is always there as an option if I need it!)
Inspired by Leigh and Sally's chat, I started thinking about the outfit combinations that make me feel put-together with minimal effort, and exactly what makes them work.
Look 1: A structured jacket and jeans.
There's nothing particularly new about wearing a jacket and jeans, but the twist is in the proportions. By teaming directional silhouettes like a barrel leg jean and bomber, the effect is an outfit that looks chic and considered — not boring.
The jacket can be any style that compliments the needs of your daily wardrobe: a cropped trench you can buckle up might be your missing piece, or maybe you're into those new boxy bombers in suede and leather.
Blazers always have their place, but these fresh shapes can breathe new life into your winter outfits. I've been wearing a tailored white wrap coat with straight-leg jeans as we transition into the cooler weather, and the compliments just keep coming.
Wearing an IDA+S Collection jacket with Lee jeans. Image: Supplied.
Style it up: This is where the shoes really come into play. Low-profile sneakers are a new-season move on from chunky trainers, and if you're looking for an option for work or a night out, keep it minimal with a kitten-heel or sleek mule.
Shop the look.
Cotton on Faux Leather Puff Jacket, $109.99.
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Target Long Sleeve Crop Trench Coat, $70.
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Rolla's Jane Barrel Jeans, $189.95.
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Look 2: An oversized t-shirt and knit pants.
The second outfit combination I want to riff on is a roomy tee and knit pants. This has become my go-to look, and it's so easy to throw together if you have the pieces in your closet. Thankfully, there's no shortage of them on the market.
A graphic t-shirt has a more casual feel, which you can elevate with woven pants with a textured finish such as crochet or rib.
I've been experimenting with tonal looks by pairing tees in the same shade as my knit pants, and find this feels more dressy for evening or events. It's the same concept as wearing a set.
It's basically set dressing, with my separates. Here I'm wearing a Mael shirt and Dissh pants. Image: Supplied.
Style it up: Introduce some shape to the look through your accessories. A large half-moon bag or crossbody tote with metal accents will elevate your slouchy separates instantly.
Shop the look.
Bayse Jonas boyfriend Tee, $69.95.
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Dissh Sylvia Cream Knit Pant, on sale for $70.
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& Other Stories Classic Suede Tote, $199.
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Look 3: A maxidress and barely-there flats.
While in the past we might've styled boho maxis with chunky flats, now it's all about the barely-there shoe. That's why clear jelly straps are trending; they're even more invisible.
Thongs are having a major resurgence, and give a cool, grounded vibe to voluminous dresses - but the same goes for any thin-strap leather sandals.
I love the ease of throwing on a long-sleeve printed maxi with thongs. It's contemporary without feeling contrived, and that's exactly what we're aiming for. Plus, it's a look that can take you from brunch to date nights - and the pieces won't take up much room in your suitcase if you're heading away.
Styling a maxi dress from Petal + Pup with barely-there leather sandals. Image: Supplied.
Style it up: Just because the outfit is simple doesn't mean your accessories need to be. A statement gold earring or chunky beaded choker necklace will add some visual interest, and bold sunglasses dial up the glamour for daytime events.
Shop the look.
City Chic Marcia Maxi Dress, $139.95.
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Verali Tori Thongs, $59.95.
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