How to Wear the Elevated Basics Style Trend for Fall 2023

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I’m 63 and I highly value quality, classic, refined and versatile style, too. It’s become hard to find top quality wardrobe pieces since the late 90s, so I’m really happy the pendulum is swinging back again.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Me, too, Kimberly. However I do think we’re all going to have to be willing to prioritize quality over quantity and pay more for it. Life has just gotten expensive and I think brands are really struggling to keep providing the quality we are use to at the prices we want to pay. Would you agree?

[@audreyhuggins8822]

I relate. Even when I am willing to spend on designer clothes or hundreds for a beautiful blouse, blazer, a dress....the quality mortifies me: polyester, nylon, other synthetics, I refuse. Often times, I find better qualify at my local Macy's!

[@wannabe41]

Yes. The quality that used to be available for a fair price is now so much more expensive, and the quality still doesn’t come close to what I used to be able to find 20 years ago. That’s why vintage shopping and thrift shopping has become more popular. I still have some quality pieces that I bought over 30 years ago; 100% lightweight wool blazers lined with silk, excellent construction and beautifully finished button holes, etc. I look at what’s on offer today for the prices they’re asking for it and I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.

[@audreyhuggins8822]

@@wannabe41 You nailed it. So true! What is up with synthetics with an asking price in the several hundreds or even thousands?

[@scotland99]

I agree! Yes!!

[@marieschmidt9416]

Yes, yes, yes! Classy yet unpretentious...never goes out of style.

[@colsen4616]

After spending an afternoon with my closet, I have a pretty clear picture of what my style is and found I already have most of what I need to achieve this look. This video really spoke to me. The point you made about the fine line between elevated basics and boring was spot on. I definitely need to work on accessorizing to stay on the right side of the line!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Love that! Thanks so much for sharing. ❤️

[@letitiakingsley775]

I love elevated basics. I’m 76 and I find that they are the best style for me. You are right when you say you need good quality. That’s very important. Thank you for the interesting video.

[@hjburns]

Kay, this is my favorite style too. I have followed you since 2020 and I can honestly say you have helped me achieve a wardrobe that hardly needs any additions. Thank you so much!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wow, thank you! That is music to my ears...or eyes. Ha! Thanks so much for sharing. ❤️

[@Anna-zu8nf]

What a brilliant and informative video Kay! Over here in the UK, there is a big push NOT to keep buying "stuff", you don't need, only buy when it needs replacing! I have t-shirts that I only wear in summer/spring. You have just shown me that I can wear them all year round with just changing what I wear them with. Brilliant!

[@margaretchiodo-keller4495]

I love the elevated basics style, and I wear it every day. It always looks nice, feels comfortable, and is eternally classic.

[@ConnieMW10]

I have been going to thrift stores lately and finding some great items to wear. Names like Chaps, Carole Little, Lucky Brand, Jay Crew, Michael Kors, Coach, Orvis, Lands End, etc. I even got a 100% silk blouse for $2.00. But I have also ordered quite a few items from Banana Republic Factory during their sales.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Sounds great! Thanks so much for sharing. ❤️

[@LisaLisa-h8h]

Kay I love this style! Appreciate you mentioning using resale sites to look for quality pieces to add to our wardrobes. Keep up the great work.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!

[@marianne7122]

Wow. Excellent advice. You explained the challenges of wearing an "elevated basics" style really well and provided clear examples of how to address the challenges. It made such good sense to me.

[@PatriciaKaelin-x1p]

I like your point about the fine line between elevated and boring. Something to really keep in mind when putting together an outfit. Thank you.

[@susanevanko3982]

Growing up, my family didn’t have a lot of money but my Dad was a businessman who always dressed well. His suits fit beautifully, his shirts were perfectly ironed and starched, shoes polished and he was well groomed. I take after him and have always loved getting ‘dressed up’ even if I am only leaving the house. This esthetic very much appeals to me and I appreciate your insight. Thanks, Kay!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wonderful. Being well-groomed really does go a long ways!

[@EllenCulpepper]

This topic helped me the most of all the ones I've listened to in a while. It holds key insights that I needed your help to see, Kay. Thanks!

[@phyllismenzi6473]

Thank you, for this very informative video. I appreciate the tips you give. I like the elevated basics style because it puts together well what I already own. It helps steer me to what I need to buy also. God bless your day!

[@Kathiebaxter]

Good luck with it all, Alex. So impressive what you’ve done, I’ll be tuned in!

[@12Gaile]

Finally a style trend I can embrace. 😊

[@sallybarkla4991]

I agree Kay. Putting effort in to looking effortless helps me feel quiet confidence during the day. I’m still learning and have made many purchasing errors. Thank you for your great research and information. The red blazer looks fabulous on you with the white T 😊

[@darladellana4961]

I do like this style trend. Actually, it's how I've dressed for many decades. Glad to have a name for it.

[@s.barlow7062]

My goodness! You have put so much effort into this presentation and it’s wonderful. Thank you for all of the additional resources to shop from or at least look for.

[@llkoolbean4935]

Great points here. Fit, and quality is key.

[@melodygardner6169]

WOW GIRL!! This was probably one of your best videos!!! Great information!!!

[@FrancesStrange]

Dear Kay, I had to drop you a line to say how much I enjoyed your demonstration of the Ziip Halo. I, too, look totally different without my makeup. Hoorah for making the best of ourselves - whatever our age. You are a fantastic example, thank you.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Oh thank you! I don't particularly like doing those kinds of videos with no makeup, but I don't mind keeping things real. ❤️

[@user-pi8li9to3i]

Thank you…elevated basics is always my favorite look.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

You are so welcome!

[@kimberlyberlin4999]

I love this style trend!!!! Elevated basics and classics are my go to pieces. Less is more especially when your garments are well chosen, well fitted, and quality material and workmanship. Great video Kay and your hair is so cute shorter like this.

[@loriandrews6805]

Wonderful video! Love elevated basics and I hope you’ll continue to showcase some.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you! Will do!

[@TJNash-cr9ko]

I love this - the way I try to dress most days. Love the jewelry you wore with the red jacket. Sometimes I forget that less is more!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Me, too! But I'm getting better about it. Thanks for watching! ❤️

[@debmurphy5300]

Since following your channel, I have discovered my style, casual classic. I will be culling my closet with that focus and your tips for fit and proportion. 😊

[@kayeratliff9799]

Thank you for this video. In retirement, elevated basics work for me. 😊

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. Thanks for watching today. 💕

[@marciafirst2271]

I love your red blazer. It is such a bright, cheerful color. Thanks for the focus on elevated basics. As a person who retired about a year ago, I’ve wondered what to do with the lovely clothes from my teaching career. I have removed many of the fanciest clothes and only kept a few for special occasions. Now with this trend, I feel like I can wear some of the nicer clothes in my closet, and not part with them so quickly. Because I’m retired, I now get to attend conferences with my husband (who is still working) that I was never able to attend because of my career. This gives me occasions to dress up a little. Thanks for this great video.

[@sherrynorte9574]

Like this video on basic elevated style. I have always like quality over quantity. It's nice to see that they going back to quality looking clothes without real high prices. You can always tell the difference in quality.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I agree that I prefer quality over quantity. However, I do think retailers and brands are really struggling to provide good quality clothes at prices customers will pay. I think we all have to adjust our expectations a little or we need to be prepared to pay a bit more. Prices are just open across the board - food, gas, life! So prices in clothing are going up, too.

[@GabySchäfer-l3d]

Great video truly less is more! Love your red blazer! Beautiful color. It's really good counsel to remove one thing. Also for make up: Less can be more! True also texture can be the thing that makes the difference between boring and interesting

[@janithmathews4195]

I like the elevated basics style. Thanks for reminding us.

[@rebeccawoods4488]

I love this style, and I love how you explained it so clearly.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Great to hear. Thanks so much for letting me know. ❤️

[@singwithscottishgranny9565]

Thank you, AGAIN, kay!!! Another wonderful video with so many great ideas! Xx

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely! I’m so very glad you enjoyed it. 🙌🏻

[@nancyfelkner9782]

This video content is amazing! As I watched it, I was able to "pull" from my wardrobe several outfits. Many of these pieces have remained dormant due to a lack of points to follow to bring them together!! Example - nothing in the outfit takes "center stage". That comment helped tremendously. Thank you so very much for this VERY informative video. Classic and sharp Yeah!

[@karenpawlowskileahy1895]

Thanks Kay, very well done video. Great info

[@pamedinger7512]

Love this style and all your tips are so helpful! Thank you so much!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad you like them! Thanks for letting me know.

[@pjacksreads536]

When I woke up this morning looking for news, this video showed up in my feed. I decided to listen since I was sure of what to wear today. I took your advice. The first person that saw me said “You’re looking nice today. I love your outfit” I let her know I got the idea of elevating my attire from you. I wear jeans to work on Fridays occasionally but never thought of what I wear with them. Thanks for the great advice. I feel great also.

[@rhonaklipp]

Love it! I appreciate your tips. You stand out from the crowd of fashion vloggers. Yes I like this style trend a lot!!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

ahh, you're kind. Thanks so much! ❤️

[@joanngood648]

Very good explanation and a great look! Thanks!

[@celestekyle2179]

Great video! I admire quality in clothing when it is so hard to find these days.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I agree. But I think most brands really do want to provide good quality, but they also want to retain their customer base. Most retailers know what their customers will and will not pay, and they have to stay within those parameters while also trying to continue to offer the same quality they've gotten use to. I believe we're all going to have to adjust a little because prices have gone up across the board - fuel, food, housing, etc. So we have to understand that quality clothing is going to cost more than before, too.

[@debrakettler6077]

Love your videos! Took your advice and purchased two pair of Talbots jeans. Love them!!! I live in southern Florida now and I hate wearing jeans. But on Fridays we can be casual and I wanted a stylish Jean.These work perfectly. Sometimes it would be nice if you could gear towards hot weather fashion. Like I would die if I wore a suit jacket at work every day down here.

[@jillhesson362]

Happy you mentioned consignment. I purchase about half of what I wear from a lovely consignment store in Frisco, Texas. Retired now but have always shopped consignment!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Love that!

[@VickiPeterAchterstraat]

I love this style too Kay and thank you for your positive and helpful tips to achieve our best self it has really helped my wardrobe approach 😊

[@debbiestoufer-zy2sl]

Great video. I love the elevated basic style.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad you liked it! I love this style, too.

[@pappyone6062]

Kay, this video advice is great, but you look just flawless and so lovely in those colors you’re wearing! That red is so good on you and that lip color! I love it! What is it? Thanks for taking the time to put this video together.

[@rebeccaopgrand7279]

I love this information! So helpful and makes it workable for me! Thank you so much! ❤️😊

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. Thank you for letting me know. 🥰

[@kerryparker8925]

I love this elevated basic look. Thank you for the great examples you’ve shown. I love your videos so much.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

You are so welcome! ❤️

[@beverlyjdesigns1410]

Loved This! Thank you so much!❤❤❤

[@traciehanley8475]

Yes - Great subtle look - timeless! Love the Coco Chanelle Rule!

[@RitaVernoy]

Thank you for these tips!😊

[@staceykeeling5842]

So much goodness in this video, Kay. Thank you. :)

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wonderful to hear. Thank you for watching. 😊

[@lyndaevans1132]

I'm so glad to hear that I'm finally in style! This is the way I have always dressed--even as a teen. I would always rather have one really nice thing, than five very trendy things. I have some things that I've been wearing more than 10 years, like cashmere sweaters and wool slacks. Have I had to have the tailor do touch-ups occasionally, sure. Like my boiled wool navy blue blazer that I bought over 20 years ago! I had the lining replaced two years ago, and other than that it just occasionally goes to the cleaners. Here in Austin, a wool blazer is usually all you need on most winter days. (Last year, it was 82 degrees on Christmas Day!)

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I love that you had the lining replaced. So smart. We all need to be so mindful.

[@tamarahogan3912]

I really loved this video. I also really liked to learn that you sew. I have sewn since 7th grade in 1978. Even made my wedding dress!! With this knowledge I can spot quality at all price points. Something expensive can be cheaply made and the opposite is true as well.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Absolutely. I spot it all the time. Thanks so much for sharing and for watching.

[@cathyduran7771]

Such a wonderful and encouraging message. Thank you!

[@allsquaredup9717]

Finally I have a term for how I dress - Elevated Basics!

[@gettingitdone2025]

I was watching a tv show recently and one of the characters had on a soft beige cashmere sweater. It looked so elegant! I really like this style trend.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Striking, isn't it? Thanks for sharing.

[@sharronwolfe7711]

I love this look! It goes right along with the current “Old Money” esthetic. Really do appreciate these videos you’re doing lately! Keep ‘em coming! 😃

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad you like them!

[@karenbianco1084]

I just subscribed. I enjoyed your video very much! I turned 67 November 2nd. Most people think that I'm in my 50s. I'm working on making new elevated outfits, adding to some great solid pieces I already have! Thank you for your good advice!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Wonderful! Thank you so much for subscribing. 🥰

[@JoeThornton-i7z]

I love jackets and sweaters they give your outfit balance. I am glad to see that sloppy look is on the way out. I love well tailored clothes. They're easy to put together and look great. Donna from tx.

[@dianec8928]

I’ve been following you for awhile now…. Thanks for this video, it was 1 of your best! Very detailed & specific. I appreciate all the outfit ideas in the side photos. Will be trying some of these outfits during fall & winter this year. Thanks again for helping us look our best on the outside and inside as well.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!😊

[@diannhoward9903]

I really like this trend & have always gravitated towards it naturally. Thanks for the video!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!

[@PatriciaPatterson-u2f]

Good morning Kay, fantastic recommendations today, very helpful for me (72), with many classic pieces.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely. Thanks so much for watching. 💙

[@jackiegenandt6661]

Great tips Kay!!! Thank you for helping me look great!!!!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely! You’re so welcome. And thanks for watching. 🥰

[@kschindle1]

I love the second hand store elevated clothes. I have a pair of pants wool small plaid herringbone black and white pants that I have had for 20 years.

[@margeling4718]

I am glad the elevated basics trend is here. This has been my style ever since I was young. I am going to be 77 in a month and still practice this way of dressing. I am keeping a good number of my blazers from my former work “uniform” because that third piece makes me feel complete. I buy many of my clothes from charity shops and know fabrics and good workmanship since I have been sewing since 7th grade. I don’t see now except hemming pants. I am going to be wearing three trends this fall: a tailored red corduroy blazer. Can’t wait until it gets cooler here in San Jose, CA. Great video, Kay!!!

[@cindyhalpern3187]

I have to wear colors! But what you did with the red blazer is just right! Black with red can also be pretty !

[@debmurphy5300]

Hi From Canada, still enjoying your tips.

[@appalachianwanderseeker]

Elevated basics is a great trend! I just purchased a nice black blazer and a number of wool T-shirts. They should work in my wardrobe for years.

[@scotland99]

Wool t shirts? Ive never heard of that. Ty

[@reenbowbrite]

where did you find your blazer?

[@appalachianwanderseeker]

@@reenbowbrite Kohls

[@marysheaffer8609]

I like this trend. It is how I try to dress now. Simple, casual, and comfortable!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. Thanks so much for sharing, Mary. 💕

[@sclose3418]

You look so great and especially in that beautiful red blazer!

[@norafairbanks5796]

Kay, look forward to your Wednesday show every week. Bought my first jean jacket, got my belt out too.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

That is awesome! Thanks so much for letting me know. Enjoy!

[@monagould1829]

I love this style! It is my favorite. Getting ready to retire so this is my retirement wardrobe:)

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Perfect. It’s where I like to live, too. Thank you for watching and sharing. 🥰

[@elizabethpetrie2732]

I enjoyed today’s video (as always!). And in terms of the “something special” that sets a basic item apart, the first thing I noticed was the topstitching on the collar and lapels of your blazer. Very classy.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you!😊

[@stephaniecollins612]

I love these ideas and I have a lot of things in my closet already that will work.

[@karolallen5823]

I’m a “seasoned” gal (love that description), who really appreciates your tips in this video. One in particular resonated with me - adding texture to add interest and keep an outfit from being boring. Great advice as always. Thank you! ❤️

[@marinarehren7076]

Great presentation! Elevated basics suit my lifestyle (teaching online) and I prefer things not to be fussy. I love this style and I think it is what I have been trying to do. I also made the experience that it is important wearing the right length and taking a shirt or trousers to the tailor etc. With the help of your video I will try to rethink my outfits!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Awesome! Thank you! ❤️

[@cynthiatennant9896]

Excellent video!!! Thank you Kay ❤

[@janefoley5184]

Thank you for this video. It's so nice to see you showing well tailored pieces rather the the "trendy" oversized blazers, pants and tops! Those oversized items are so unfaltering on mature ladies!

[@carolreeves9976]

I didn’t even know there was a thing called elevated basics. So much wonderful information from you. Thank you.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Glad it was helpful! ❤️

[@cynthiaapodaca2726]

I enjoy you so much! I’ve been following you since 2020 and this is my favorite video! This was an excellent video featuring tips to create an elevated modern classic look. Thank you for teaching the skills to wear the current fashion trends with confidence and style! ❤

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Oh thank you! So wonderful to hear!😊

[@bookworm1642]

Kay, I love your link. I have been a fan for several years. I have a suggestion for you. Have you ever considered leaving off your under eye liner? It would draw your eyes up. You are a beautiful woman and you always look great! Have a blessed day, Polly

[@letitiakingsley775]

Very interesting video. I am 76 and have been wearing basics for a long time. I buy more expensive tops and cardigans from a very good shop and they look better. I wear a lot of black on top but do wear colour in skirts and pants. Thank you for your lovely video.

[@jhh051]

I love your classy style and classic wardrobe. I know good brands and have been finding great items at the thrift stores and eBay.

[@pattorelli3451]

Love the color of that red blazer!

[@fionafrazer8820]

This style esthetic is actually what my style is! Like you - I've been doing this for years - and it's nice to know I don't have to add much to be current! One of the problems is that the quality of clothing, regardless of price paid or place purchased, has gone down so significantly in the last 5-10 years. I have been so disappointed so many times lately - the seam allowances are almost non-existent, so tailoring can be a problem. I doubt many of us can get a perfect fit from a store, and because tailoring itself has gone up so significantly (I recently took a pair of pants in to my local tailor to be hemmed - $40!!!), that can put getting the good fit out of our budget. Your camel short coat is wonderful - such a good look, and I would consider a red blazer a basic!

[@juliemoore6957]

I've always done basics, and styled them up with accessories! It's kind of like a capsule wardrobe!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Yes!😊

[@victoriatorcolini4410]

Excellent tutorial! 🎉

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Thank you! 😊

[@donnacollins3311]

I loved this video and all of the elevated basics you showed. It's similar to the way I dressed when I worked my corporate job, except I wore suit skirts, and sometimes pants or dresses. But I always wore a blazer/cardigan. But, I never thought to pair them and dressier shoes with my jeans and casual skirts, but I'm glad I saw this video. One question that came to mind was when you removed the belt - I laughed because I love belts and have a bunch of them, but I always seem to remove the belt.I think it's because I'm shortwaisted and I feel the belt looks off. So, I'm wondering, if it is ok (stylish?) to wear a belt over your top? That looks good on me but I think it might not be in style because I don't see that on other people. Did you ever do a video on wearing belts? Thanks,

[@susanbatten6422]

Superb discussion about refinement, the old word for classics 😂

[@janwynn2731]

I enjoyed the video. I like to dress this way some days but I also love color and details like scallops, tucks and crochet. A button up shirt and jeans are a favorite of mine.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

😊

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I love the cool-toned brown and taupe skirt and sweater outfit. The cool-red blazer would suit my cool-toned coloring, too.❤

[@anneveno9266]

Thank you for the ideas and for including a long denim skirt as an elevated basic. I bought one over the summer and it was a nice alternative to a flowy skirt that is comfortable in hot and humid weather and durable for going about my day. I’m planning to wear it with tall boots and tights for fall.

[@itsnova1245]

I love the faith that you told us to shop at tablet. I enjoyed your video. Blazers are gonna be so big. This fall tablets do have a nice selection of blazers.❤❤❤❤

[@joycekerensky6880]

I like this elevated basics look, but I do love patterns❤ Thanks

[@nancyjong4437]

Kay, the black blazer mskes you look business snd formal. The red blazer compliments your warm, friendly, energetic personality.

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

😊

[@sarahlion9949]

Thank you for your information. I like it. ❤

[@rachelkivarkis1801]

Thank you, Kay, for this Special session. Beautiful I learned, a new term, elevated basics, for this is the first time, I hear about it. God bless you, and you do look great in all the looks. Thanks again. 😘👍🙏🌟✨❤️🌻✝️💫🍁🧡🍂

[@debbietoner7136]

So practical and pretty!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

Lovely. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@debs5531]

Love this style! I must say it describes my intention when I dress. You do it well and describe the details needed and not needed to make this style come alive. On another note, what lipstick and colour are you wearing? It is perfect red!! Thanks Kay!!

[@cindynaglee9060]

I love this style and always have. T,hank you for this video! Could you tell us what color and brand of lipstick you’re wearing with the red blazer? It looks fabulous on you!

[@DressedforMyDaywithKayHarms]

I'm wearing my Rebellious Rose in this: rstyle.me/+xEfjakNf7-6VnJkdWOAwAA