Our Guide to Elevated Casualwear

These days it seems most tops are either cropped right below the bust or fall way too far past your waist. Enter this boxy tee made out of soft pima cotton that hits perfectly at your waistline. Throw it on with literally any bottoms, and you’ll feel ready to take on the day. It comes in 10 neutral colors and sizes XS–XXL. ($38, Buck Mason)

These Hanes tees are technically men’s, yes, but we won’t gatekeep that they happen to be our favorite white T-shirt. They’re so soft and fit so well — not too tight but not too loose that they look slouchy. We’ve worn them to sleep in, to work out in, to go grocery shopping, and even to brunch, tucked into a skirt. Trust us on this one. ($15.08+, Amazon)

If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that polished sweatshirts do exist. This one breaks up the solid black with a graphic of two angels and logo. It’s 100% cotton and has a fleece lining, so it’s soft enough for a lived-in feel. It comes in sizes XS–XL. ($160, Revolve)

This cashmere hoodie is soft enough to feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket but looks great worn with a simple white tank top or on its own. It has pockets, a hood, and a two-way zipper, and it’s available in six neutral colors and sizes S–XL. Size up if you want a roomier fit. ($165, Amazon)

Prep is in, haven’t you heard? With three buttons and a collar, this pullover is anything but average. It has a boxy fit, dropped shoulders, and hits just right at the waist. Pair it with leggings or bike shorts for a coffee run or pull it on over yoga clothes after class. We love the bright colors, but it also comes in black and gray. ($98, Alo Yoga)

ICYMI: She’s sporty, lightweight, sweat-wicking, and has built-in shorts with little grips, so there’s no chafing, riding, or bunching. It comes in several colors and patterns, and in sizes XXS–XXXL. Play golf, tennis, or Putt-Putt in it, but also throw it on for errands, walks, or brunch. Serving looks. ($100, Outdoor Voices)

This one isn’t your average tee. It’s made from a recycled fabric called cupro that feels silky but is hypoallergenic, won’t cling to your body, and regulates temperature. It’s perfect for wearing around the house while working from home or pairing with jeans for a casual dinner. It comes in six neutral colors and sizes XXS–6XL. Customers say it’s a great layering piece when it’s chilly outside. Use code SKIMM15 for 15% off your entire order. ($34, Girlfriend Collective)

Let us introduce you to your new favorite weekend shirt. It’s a vintage-looking tee with a comic-strip-style graphic that says, "Wait! The champagne!" Our forever mood. It’s 100% cotton and will only get better with time, so it’s worth the investment. Tuck it into jeans or a skirt or throw a blazer over it. She speaks for herself. ($150, Revolve)

Arguably the best pair of Lululemon joggers you can get your hands on, these full-length pants are the upgrade your loungewear has been waiting for. The material is soft and lightweight but warm enough for transitional weather. They’re also high-rise, stretchy, and sweat-wicking. They come in four colors and sizes 0–20. ($108, Lululemon)

Button up this one-piece over your swimsuit as you head to the pool or beach, and don’t be surprised if you’re reaching for it on a normal day as well. The lightweight terry has some give, and there’s an adjustable drawstring at the waist. Bonus: It’s machine washable. Score. ($44.99, Madewell)

Somehow we keep finding new versions of Levi’s that are even better than the last. These “dad jeans” are our new weekend warriors, with straight legs that are borderline bootcut and a high-rise waist. The dark gray can be dressed up or down, but they also come in light and dark wash denim. Just note, they don’t have a lot of stretch, so size up if you want a looser fit. ($98, Free People)

As Oprah once said, “If you’ve got a really great pair of jeans, you’ve got it all.” Okay, maybe we said that, but you know it’s true. These are high-waisted to keep you comfortable and covered all day and have a raw hem. They come in 00–24, and customers love that they don’t stretch out wear after wear. ($119, Nordstrom)

From the couch to the gym, these bike shorts won’t let ya down. They’re lightweight and breathable, and they’ll never cut off circulation to your legs. Praise. The fabric is made from 90% recycled bottles and has UPF 50+ protection. We love the longer inseam and the zesty green color (they also come in black). Use code SKIMM15 for 15% off your entire order. ($48, Girlfriend Collective)

Another sustainable option, these are made from organic cotton in a fair trade factory and have pockets on both sides big enough to stash your phone or keys. They have plenty of stretch, so they’re comfy enough for both your farmer’s market run and your gym routine, and come in 10 colors and patterns to choose from. Customers rec sizing up, as they can be quite tight before breaking them in. ($45, Pact)

Move over, groutfit. These stylish pants bring the comfort — whether you’re running errands, lounging on the couch, or playing sports. The soft tech fabric is sweat-wicking and resistant to pilling and fading. And they’ve got multiple zip pockets for keeping the important stuff secure as you move. Your old sweatpants could never. ($98, Nordstrom)