The Perfect Transitional Weather Outfit
"Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." Oscar Wilde.
This is an outfit I return to every spring because it’s the perfect, effortless transitional uniform.
The breakdown is a cotton long-sleeve T-shirt, wide-leg jeans, flip-flops, and an oversized bag. It’s entirely practical, as the cotton tee and denim are incredibly soft, lightweight, and comfortable. The wide-leg pants allow for some breathability, the flip-flops are easy to throw on or switch out for a quick change, and the big bag is perfect for stripping off any layers you may have started the day in or carrying around an extra sweater for chillier moments.
In the photos here, she pairs baggy carpenter jeans (reportedly from The Gap) with a simple black long-sleeve shirt from Petit Bateau. It’s effortless, comfortable, and stylish all at once.
The Details
The Jeans: These baggy carpenter jeans give a relaxed silhouette, and they’re reportedly from The Gap, although I’ve seen some debate as to whether they’re from Calvin Klein.
Why it works: I think one of the reasons they work so well in this look is that the wider pant leg drapes perfectly over the delicate flip-flop, creating a contrast between the wide silhouette of the pant and the slim-fitting top and shoe.
The Top: Kept simple with a fitted black 100% cotton long-sleeve shirt from Petit Bateau. A piece like this is such a wardrobe essential—you can find similar styles almost anywhere.
Why it works: A slim-fitted top balances out the looser jeans perfectly.
The Shoes: She’s in classic black rubber Havaianas flip-flops, which I personally live in every summer. They’re comfy, indestructible, simple, and go with almost anything.
Why it works: The black flip-flop ties together the other minimal black accessories while being unexpected, referring back to the “wrong shoe theory.”
The Accessories: This is where Carolyn’s “uniform” really shines:
Sunglasses: She’s wearing her signature Selima Optique sunglasses. I’ve found some great dupes that give off the same look without the price tag.
Watch: A Cartier Tank watch keeps the outfit feeling polished. If you’re like me and don’t have the budget for that, I found a Seiko watch that’s super similar (and way more affordable!).
Bag: The big black Birkin is the dream bag. But until that day comes, an L.L.Bean Boat & Tote with short handles gives you a similar oversized look. Plus, it’s way more practical for everyday life.
Jeans: Baggy carpenter jeans from The Gap or a similar pair from Theory.
Top: A fitted black long-sleeve from Petit Bateau, Gap, or anywhere you like to shop basics.
Flip-Flops: Stick with Havaianas.
Sunglasses: Try a more affordable brand like Le Specs for a Selima-inspired look.
Watch: The Seiko option is a great alternative to the Cartier Tank.
Bag: Swap the Birkin for an L.L. Bean Boat & Tote or another roomy black tote.
Why This Look Works
This outfit is such a great mix of casual and polished. Carolyn nails that “I just threw this on” vibe, but every piece still feels intentional. With a few swaps, you can recreate this look and make it your own—without spending a fortune.
So, what do you think? Do you already own these pieces, or will you be trying out some of them? Let me know!
Urgh petit bateau have added a logo to the outside… so upset I wish I stocked up more before they added it, it really really ruins the purpose of a plain black top.. i hope Gaps quality is as good
It’s funny but I didn’t find this outfit to be anything special when I first saw it in real time but I have come to appreciate over time. I think at the time I just thought she was deliberately trying to de-glamorize herself in order to be boring to the press so they would leave her alone and let her have a life. Over time I see where her amazing sense of style shone through in everything she wore - except for the suit she wore to the Kritzia store in California. I don’t think I’ll ever like that one.