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7 Stress-Free Smart-Casual Outfits For Rushed Mornings

As we look ahead to lockdown restrictions lifting and getting back into our ‘normal’ routines, we’re bound to have questions. Among them: how the hell did we ever get out the door in the morning wearing actual clothes? 

Whether our AM hours consist of getting to the office, attending uni lectures, enjoying early coffee dates with our besties, dropping off little ones at school or working from home and feeling productive while doing so, there’s no denying that smart-casual outfits get us through a whole variety of scenarios. Simple, easy-to-wear styles that look and feel fantastic are always a winner — especially those that don’t take much time or effort to put on our bods.

Finding such ensembles might feel tricky but thankfully Simply Be has size 10-32 shoppers covered. These seven outfits will make the often stressful morning rush far more bearable, not to mention effortlessly chic.

Denim lovers will know that there are few styles comfier than a boyfriend jean. In a black hue and designed with a high waist, this pair can be styled to look both professional and fun. 

Combined with a sage-coloured tunic, you have yourself an outfit that you can slip into in just a couple of minutes. The beauty of a tunic is that it is fitted in the bodice but loose and breathable from the waist down. This means you’ll never feel constricted or uncomfortable while navigating the day’s adventures.

Black leather mules and a shoulder bag are the perfect finishing touches — so simple yet so versatile.

Simply Be Cotton Dipped Back Tunic Shirt, $, available at Simply Be

Clarks Landra Leather Mule Sandals Standard D Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be 24/7 Washed Black Boyfriend Jeans made with Organic Cotton, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Woven Detail Knot Tie Crossbody Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Tiered dresses have been all the rage for a few seasons now and it’s not difficult to see why. Though they evoke some sweetly vintage vibes, they also fit seamlessly into our modern world. A button-up version like this pastel blue one adds an extra dollop of professionalism to an ensemble that can be worn day or night. The best part about it is that it can be worn totally on its own: no other garments needed! 

Wear this beauty with some classic faux leather slip-on sandals and a tan-coloured bucket bag and you’ll have a boho look that can be worn for brunch or business.

Fiorelli Rami Bucket Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Vero Moda Gine Sandals D Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Blue Cotton Tiered Long Sleeve Shirt Smock Dress, $, available at Simply Be

If you’ve been swooning over the cottagecore trend that has taken social media by storm, you will love this broderie blouse with its Peter Pan collar and delightful puff sleeves. This is a picture-perfect statement piece that can be styled to suit any occasion. Combined with denim dungarees – an easy-to-rock, all-in-one piece – you’ll look equally at home in a pretty meadow or a professional meeting. 

We suggest keeping your accessories simple to make this statement look pop. A pair of coral-coloured slip-on sandals and a black faux leather bag will show onlookers that you’ve got this.

Fiorelli Beau Large Hobo Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Vero Moda Gine Sandals D Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Wide Frill Collar Pleated Cotton Blouse, $, available at Simply Be

At long last, it’s time to get your favourite blazers out of storage! This ivory-hued piece is just what the summer season ordered. After a year spent in PJs, you might want to ease your way back into the world of adult dressing. A blazer is an instant way to smarten up any ensemble, like this simple figure-hugging jeans and white blouse combo. 

For more stress-free touches, these low-block pumps are a comfortable alternative to stilettos that can be speedily slipped on, and this shoulder bag is just the right size to shove in the day’s essentials, be they your purse and tablet, or the latest true-crime book you can’t put down.

Simply Be White Broderie Vest, $, available at Simply Be

Calvin Klein CK Shoulder Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Stone Double Sided Ponte Blazer, $, available at Simply Be

Clarks Landra Leather Mule Sandals Standard D Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be 24/7 Vintage Blue Boyfriend Jeans made with Organic Cotton, $, available at Simply Be

There’s something about the combination of white and tan that screams summer and this look is no exception. Maybe you’re going to the seaside, or maybe you just love that lazy holiday vibe.

Leopard print is a winner for any occasion, TBH. It’s a bold print that’ll do all the talking for you, not to mention one that doesn’t require much excess styling. Paired with a longline poplin top, you’ve got smart-casual at its finest. White slip-on sandals and a camel-coloured hobo bag are just the right finishing touches: sandy, sunny and smart. 

Simply Be Leopard Print Tie Waist Scuba Culottes, $, available at Simply Be

Dune Derline Signature Hobo Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Vero Moda Gine Sandals D Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Ivory Tencil Utility Shirt, $, available at Simply Be

If you favour the forest over the seaside, this particular ensemble may be your smart-casual summer must-have. Tiered, spotty and in a classic black-and-white combo, this dress is everything a whimsical babe who knows how to get sh*t done could ever want. Bonus: a printed piece like this one doesn’t even need ironing, since any little creases will get hidden in the pattern.

A khaki-coloured grab bag and black leather sandals would look right at home on a Wednesday morning commute or on a woodland walk that same afternoon. 

Clarks Orianna Cross Leather Sandals Wide E Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Fiorelli Flossy Grab Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Mono Spot Midi Dress with Frill Neck, $, available at Simply Be

If you like the sound of a one-item show, look no further than this slinky, lively and versatile wrap top. With its vibrant pink hue and animal print, no over-accessorising or over-styling will be needed here. Just add a comfy pair of mom jeans and you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.

Black accessories are a necessity for a babe in charge, so rock this look with leather mules and a hobo bag in the classic colour all fashionistas swear by.

Clarks Landra Leather Mule Sandals Standard D Fit, $, available at Simply Be

Fiorelli Beau Large Hobo Bag, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Pink Animal Print Crinkle Wrap Top, $, available at Simply Be

Simply Be Demi Washed Black High Waist Mom Jeans, $, available at Simply Be

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