Ryan Murphy’s Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette saw a meteoric rise in nostalgia for the effortless appeal that Bessette (CBK to the uninitiated) carried herself with.
This return to pared-back styling proved two things. Firstly, that CBK was an inimitable icon and secondly, it popularised the clean girl theory, that simple really is better. Rather than chasing micro-trends and trying to fit in, CBK’s masterful chic minimalism gave rise to what we now call the ‘off-duty’ uniform.
Off-duty style is an understated, versatile way of dressing that looks effortless and is built around pieces that work together and can be worn again and again. With off-duty style becoming the unofficial uniform and go-to of the front row with the likes of Zoë Kravitz, Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber with each having mastered their own take on the style.
The CBK Revival Is Making A Compelling Case For Less-Is-More Dressing
Long after her tragic passing, CBK has lived on as a style muse for both designers and celebrities alike, with her timeless, understated appeal giving rise to a revolution of considered wardrobes.
Off-duty style, of course, doesn’t mean accidentally effortless; on the contrary, it’s the composed, curated style that relies heavily on having the right wardrobe foundations to form the basis of every put-together outfit.
What Actually Makes An Item A ‘Wardrobe Staple’ In 2026?
A wardrobe staple in modern fashion has to answer to wearability, styling promise, versatility and trans-seasonality. A modern wardrobe staple is not ‘basic’ in a boring sense; it’s an effortless piece that can be worn repeatedly without feeling dated and styled with multiple outfits.
There’s a clear distinction between a trend-led piece and a wardrobe staple. Where trend-led pieces can add a little je ne sais quoi to your outfit, the reality is, you’ll likely only reach for it on occasion and in a few seasons’ time it’ll be almost a faux pas to wear.
The Six Wardrobe Staples Behind An Off-Duty Uniform
Classic White Tee
A classic white tee has been a celeb staple for years and is perfect for an everyday look. The often fitted, capped-sleeve cotton essential has mostly been worn as a crop, although in recent years a baggier, oversized white tee made its way into sartorial space.
RE:UNION Label Boyfriend White Oversized Tee
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: White. | Key Features: 100% Cotton, Oversized, Crewneck, Drop Sleeves.
Stories be Told Observe Ivory Baby Tee
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: White. | Key Features: Softly Fitted, Smooth Stretch Fabric, Round Neckline.
Straight-Leg Jeans
Denim is core when it comes to off-duty style; no matter if it’s light or dark wash, a straight-leg jean is the perfect, effortless addition to any outfit.
Assembly Label High Classic Blue Rise Straight Jean
Sizes: 6-14. | Colours: Class Blue. | Key Features: 100% Rigid Cotton Denim, High Rise, Straight Leg.
Among the Brave Emerge Washed Out Blue Turn Up Long Jeans
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: Light Wash. | Key Features: Mid Rise, Statement Turn Up Cuff, Relaxed Straight Leg.
Oversized Blazer
The effortless tailoring of an oversized blazer can make an outfit feel put together and intentional no matter if it’s a warm wool or a lightweight linen, having both options sees you through all seasons.
Among the Brave Diploma Dark Chocolate Two Button Vent Sleeve Blazer
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: Dark Chocolate. | Key Features: Fully Lined, Slight Stretch, Vented Sleeve.
Esmaee Symmetry Dark Olive Tailored Blazer
Sizes: XXS-L. | Colours: Dark Olive. | Key Features: Structured Shoulder Pads, Fully Lined, Tailored Fit.
Trench Coat
Ever since Audrey Hepburn stepped out in that iconic Burberry Trench Coat in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, we’ve been hooked on the versatile and trans-seasonal piece. While traditionally longlined with a heavy weatherproof fabric, the humble trench coat has adapted to include cropped, trend-led styles.
Among the Brave Squad Taupe Funnel Neck Trench Jacket
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: Taupe. | Key Features: Funnel Neckline, Oversized Fit,
Midi Skirt
A midi skirt is the easy way to add flair to a simple outfit. Lace and linen are back in style this spring/summer, and a satin bias cut keeps the line fluid, pair it with a white tee for a simple finish.
RE:UNION Label Bliss Natural Linen Bias Midi Skirt
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: Natural. | Key Features: Bias Cut, Elasticated Waist, 100% Linen.
Ivy + Jack Rosette Khaki Satin Bias Midi Skirt
Sizes: 6-16. | Colours: Kahki. | Key Features: 100% Satin, Lined, Elasticated Waistband.
Structured Everyday Bag
An off-duty look wouldn’t be complete without a structured bag to carry your life around in, cue Bella Hadid and her practical-yet-chic oversized tote.
Saben Carter Black Chain Print Lining Tote Bag
Colours: Black with internal print. | Key Features: Magnetic Closure, Internal Zip Closure, Fits 17″ Laptop.
Status Anxiety Solstice Cocoa Large Slouch Leather Shoulder Bag
Colours: Brown. | Key Features: Shrunken Pebble Leather, Fits 13″ Laptop, Magnet Closure.
What To Look For When Buying Clothes You’ll Wear On Repeat
What should you look for when buying clothes you’ll wear again and again? When looking to buy clothes you’ll wear on repeat, focus on quality, versatility, comfort and how well the garment fits into your existing wardrobe. Use this practical nine-step checklist before buying:
- Fabric: Is the fabric comfortable, durable and appropriate for the climate or season you’ll wear it in?
- Construction: Check the seams, stitching, lining, buttons and zips for signs of quality, craftsmanship and durability.
- Fit: Does the garment fit well, and does the shape work with clothes you already own?
- Versatility: Can you style the piece in at least three different ways, or at least have multiple occasions in mind to wear it for?
- Seasonality: Can you layer or style the piece so you can wear it across multiple seasons?
- Colour: Does the colour work with the palette you have across your wardrobe currently?
- Care requirements: Are the washing, drying, ironing or dry-cleaning requirements realistic for your lifestyle?
- Longevity: Will the silhouette or design remain wearable beyond a single trend cycle?
- Cost per wear: Will you wear the garment enough times to warrant its price?
Ultimately, the best off-duty style is the wardrobe staples that you reach for on repeat. Much like Jenner and Kravitz, a pared-back look doesn’t need to come with a new bold outfit every week; instead, it’s about buying and styling your clothes in a way that works harder for you.
Discover Flo & Frankie – your destination for effortless, feel-good style. Shop a thoughtful edit of leading local and international fashion, accessories, home, and gifting, curated to inspire everyday beauty. Explore the latest collections online or in-store at www.floandfrankie.com.au
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