The Casual Outfit Formula That Always Works

I have always been very into dressing up. Fashion is one of my favorite ways to express myself, so I love putting together over-the-top looks. After moving to Amsterdam from NYC, I realized how differently Dutch girls dress. The heeled boots and power looks that made me feel at home in NYC got side-eye from people here. So naturally, I learned to adjust my wardrobe to fit in with the Dutchies. Of course, I couldn’t give up all of my NYC style, but you can find the simple switches I made in this post.

Over the past four years in Amsterdam, I have really come to love the casual Dutch style. When I picked up this sweatshirt from my favorite French brand, Sézane, I knew I’d have to use the casual outfit formula I’d picked up from observing Dutch street style:

Gold jewelry – I always love to finish off my casual outfit formula with some simple jewelry. One thing all the Dutch girls wear that I love to incorporate are a few gold rings. I love these from Aurate because of their sustainability and fair practices. Plus they’re high quality and last through normal wear-and-tear, so I can wear them with my daily casual looks.
A cute sweatshirt or sweater – I’ve never owned so many sweatshirts since living in Amsterdam, but they’re a staple here. Between the chilly weather and casual style, they check all the boxes. I saw this one (EU) on Sézane and knew I immediately had to have it. Find something with a fun saying in a trendy color, and you’re on your way to the perfect casual outfit formula.
Trousers – One of the first things you’ll notice about Dutch girls is that they wear trousers more than jeans. It took me a while to find a pair I liked, since so many are uncomfortable or require heeled boots because of the length. This pair (EU) has quickly become my favorite because they’re so stretchy and flattering. I also have them in houndstooth. Trousers are such an easy way to take a casual outfit from blah to chic.
White sneakers – Another thing that makes this casual outfit formula perfect for life in the Netherlands is the white sneakers. Europeans love white sneakers and none more than the Dutch. I’ve been a Nike girl for years, since Jon works with them. But I’ve been seeing Vejas everywhere and had to give them a shot. I have this pair (EU), and I absolutely love them. There was zero break-in time, and they go with literally everything.

So there you have it. Four very simple items that make up the casual outfit formula perfect for taking the dog to the park or running weekend errands.

Do you already have these four pieces in your wardrobe? Tell me in the comments if you’ll be styling them together for your next casual outfit.

Xx, Kelsey