Genius Styling Tips for Mastering the Denim-on-Denim, Culottes and Pantsuit Looks

Easy tricks to get an elevated look

By Diana Nguyen Apr 16, 2015 12:16 AMTags
Watch: 3 Hottest Fashion Trends for Spring

There are just some trends you may think you can't possibly wear. Denim on denim? Only the celebs can rock a legit Canadian tuxedo. Culottes, perhaps? Maybe if you were about three inches taller…

Stop with the negative thinking, because E! News style correspondent, Marie Claire senior fashion editor and E! Style Collective's Zanna Roberts Rassi shows us how to elevate three seemingly simple looks with a few genius styling tricks.

We already proved you can wear your tried-and-true chambray shirt all workweek long, but when you want a monochromatic look from head to toe, shed the belt and inside tee for a seamless transition. 

To add some edge, cut the bottoms of your old blues to get a frayed and rough hem, Zanna suggested. Finally, complement the look with a pair of sleek pumps and a relaxed hairstyle. The contrast between the chic and unraveled elements of this outfit make it instant wardrobe champion.

Bonus tip: If flashbacks of Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears' matching denim outfits circa 2001 are dissuading you, opt for a top and bottom in different hues and washes for more contrast.

It's official: Culottes are one of the spring's must-have pieces. But before you shun the long, billowy shorts, consider its sexy appeal. Less is definitely more here. Tie up the top into a knot and show a sliver of skin, Zanna advised. This helps to play with the proportions of the culottes. Add a sexy heel to give you some height and—voilà—a day-to-night outfit made perfect.

Sipa via AP Images

Bonus tip: Try pairing culottes in a bright, eye-catching color with nude heels for a leg-lengthening illusion.

The pantsuit rocks the boardroom like a boss. On a night out on town? Not so much. To take the classic look from business to bold, lose the shirt inside, roll up the sleeves and add some streetwear-worthy accessories, like a structural backpack and cool sneaks, Zanna advised. Again, mixing and matching the formal with the casual can create a high fashion look.

Bonus tip: Consider rolling or cuffing your pants just ever-so-slightly to show a tad more skin and those great kicks.