16 Simple Outfit Tips That Will Make You Say, "Why Didn't I Think of That?"

Just because your trousers are classic doesn't mean you have to impress with a trendy shirt. Sometimes a basic cardigan is the most sophisticated option, and it can be sexy, too, depending on how you make use of the buttons.

You know those slip dresses that show a little too much skin for work? Try layering a long knit over one and completing with mules for a day on the job.

You can wear your oversize blazers two different ways, especially if you're petite. Try once with smart slacks and again on the weekend as a minidress over a t-shirt.

When you don't know what to wear, try pairing up two of the brightest pieces in your wardrobe, making for an unexpected color combination. Accessorize accordingly, and it'll be the best outfit you've ever worn — one you didn't even know existed in your closet!

So, you've already teamed up your standout suit with power pumps? Go for something a little more relaxed when you add sporty trainers instead, and see where that takes you when it comes to outerwear.

Don't forget about all the neat ways you can style your waist bag. If you wake up in the morning and you know you have a busy day ahead of you, it'll be way easier to revolve your outfit around a functional pouch with zippers so your keys, wallet, and phone are in reach. Just base the rest of your pieces on the vibe of your accessory.

Let the cool accessory you're trying to show off — like a great pair of cherry-red heels — inspire your makeup in the morning, and your whole look will come together naturally.

Make no mistake, there's more than one way to wear that great tailored coordinate set you picked up the other day. Just try cinching your blazer with a belt and the look becomes way more feminine than structured.

Not to get all "Yeezy" on you, but if you browse through your closet and hand-pick each and every neutral piece you've got, you should be able to work out a pretty solid monochromatic look that flows.

If you just don't feel like going all out with your makeup and hair, make the focal point of your outfit a seriously genius earring and let it inspire your top, just to draw attention to your jewels a little bit more.

Another glorious option for a day you just don't have time to whip out the blow dryer? Let your hair air dry and wear a blazer with a high collar so you can tuck away your locks and still manage to look chic and polished.

You could be wearing the slickest suit at the office, but add a headband, and your outfit instantly becomes a fashion statement. Coordinate one with your purse to show how you've really mastered the accessory game.

Literally just run into the other room and check out what your SO/brother/roommate is wearing. Sometimes you find inspiration in the most unlikely places, right? Even if you won't see your loved one all day, just knowing you're dressed in similar colors or silhouettes actually feels kind of cool.

Invest in seasonal shoes that are so trendy, you really can't wait to show them off. Start there, then build your outfit around them. Knowing you'll need a shorter hemline or a certain color dress eliminates so many of your options and will help you narrow down your choices.

While it's nice to switch up your purse every day, what are the odds you'll have enough time to clean out the contents each night when you get home? Rock a statement bag you really love for a full week, then switch everything out on Sunday night before work begins on Monday.

The standard question is, "Should I wear a skirt or a dress?" Or, you can try this brilliant hack and layer one over the other. Bonus tip: if your skirt's longer than the hemline of your midi, switch up the order! The multi-dimensional look will be a serious game changer, and everyone you pass will think, "Hey, why didn't I think of that?"