The new wardrobe essentials for smart casual looks

These basics will help you build a multitude of smart casual looks: blazer, turtleneck, jeans, bodysuit, shorts, sandals, sneakers and pumps – all updated for this season

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Back to basics

Cotton bodysuit, $1,850, and metal necklace, Celine. Wool blazer, wool pants, and silk pocket square, Max Mara Tailleur Sartoriale. Bee 100 suede pumps, Jimmy Choo. RV suede bucket bag, $3,910, Roger Vivier. Acetate sunglasses, Burberry

1. Bodysuit

Classic bodysuits look great when paired with denim shorts, formal pants or distressed jeans. For a sexy spin, pick one with cut-outs to highlight your curves.

Read: The Best Bodysuits You Can Tuck Into And Wear With Anything

basics wardrobe essentials

Cotton bodysuit, $1,850, and metal necklace, Celine. Cotton fringed skirt, Tory Burch. Moage Mo suede sneakers, Onitsuka Tiger. Bag, $3,910, Roger Vivier

2. Sneakers

They’re easy to wear with everything from a short suit to a sun dress. Opt for a bold, chunky silhouette that’s so on trend now.

Read: The Best Sneakers to Wear All Year Round

3. Sandals

Nab a pair with some bling or unique detailing to elevate it. And always make sure you have a nice pedicure!

Read: Stylish Sandals to Wear During Weekends

Back to basics

Wool blazer, $4,450, cotton shirt, wool shorts, $1,450, and metal necklace, Celine. Spade Flower bag, Kate Spade New York. Viv’Ranger leather sandals, $2,500, Roger Vivier

4. Shorts

Keep it classy with a pinstriped pair that ends just above the knees – it’s versatile enough for casual Fridays at the office, and can be dressed up when worn with heels.

5. Turtleneck

The perennial classic looks current again with a slouchy fit – a great way to contrast against skinny jeans or a boxy blazer.

Read: How to Wear Turtleneck Tops in Singapore's Scorching Weather

Back to basics

Wool turtleneck, Michael Michael Kors. Wool shorts, $1,450, Celine. Spade flower bag, Kate Spade New York. Moage Mo suede sneakers, Onitsuka Tiger

6. Blazer

It’s still a great investment piece that you can wear with anything, from pants to a skirt or dress. Choose one in an oversized fit to keep things fresh, and don’t forget to alter the sleeves so that they are of the right length.

Read: HW’s Guide To Finding The Perfect Blazer For Your Body Shape

Back to basics

Wool blazer, $4,450, Celine. Wool turtleneck and denim jeans, Michael Michael Kors. Bee 100 suede pumps, Jimmy Choo

7. Pumps

A pointed toe heel is a wardrobe staple that’s universally flattering. For a modern take, get a pair with a lower heel – it’ll ease the pressure on the balls of your feet too.

Read: Minimalist Nude Pumps That Will Go With Everything

8. Jeans

A straight-leg cut helps to balance out your hips and thighs. To keep it interesting, pick a pair with distressed detailing – but don’t overdo it if you want to be taken seriously.

Read: All The Different Jeans You Need To Build Your Capsule Wardrobe

Back to basics

Wool blazer, Max Mara Tailleur Sartoriale. Cotton top, Kenzo. Metal necklace, Celine. Denim jeans, Michael Michael Kors. Viv’Ranger leather sandals, $2,500, Roger Vivier

PHOTOGRAPHY Phyllicia WangSTYLING Debby Kwong HAIR Aung Apichai, using Kevin. Murphy MAKEUP Nikki Fu, using Shiseido MODEL Quyhn Anh/ Basic Models
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