The Old Money Outfit Formula I Wear on Repeat

This is the outfit formula we keep coming back to, one that photographs like it took hours and takes about five minutes to put on. Three or four pieces, a quiet color palette, and nothing that dates.

Here's the formula broken down, piece by piece.

The Shirt

Start with a crisp blue button-down. It reads polished without trying, and it's the one piece in this whole formula that works with literally everything else you own.

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• Classic blue oxford button-down

• Slightly oversized fit for an easy, undone feel

• Sleeves rolled or cuffed, never buttoned all the way

The Trousers

A tailored trouser in a plaid or checked pattern is what gives this formula its personality. It's the one loud-ish piece in an otherwise quiet outfit.

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• Brown or camel plaid trousers

• Straight or slightly wide leg

• High-waisted so the shirt can be tucked in

The Accessories

This is where the whole thing gets pulled together. One good belt and one strong pair of sunglasses do more work than any extra layer could.

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• Thin leather belt in cognac or brown

• Oversized tortoiseshell sunglasses

• Gold jewelry kept minimal, one ring, one chain

The Shoes

Keep the shoes simple and a little worn-in. This isn't an outfit that needs a statement shoe, it needs one that disappears into the look.

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• Leather loafers or slim ankle boots

• Neutral tone, brown or black

• Broken-in over brand new, this look isn't supposed to feel precious

How to Style It Together

Tuck the shirt in, add the belt, let the trousers do the talking. Roll the sleeves once, put the sunglasses on top of your head instead of your face, and don't overthink the rest.

This formula works for a coffee run, a weekend in the city, or dinner out, the same four pieces, restyled slightly each time.