Solving the “Jeans and a Nice Top” Dilemma: Your Go-To Formula Starts Here
We’ve all had that moment.
Plans come up, dinner out, last-minute drinks, a casual date, and suddenly, everything in your closet feels off. Dresses feel too formal. Tees feel too relaxed. You glance at the time and say what we’ve all said:
“I just need jeans and a nice top.”
It sounds simple. But finding the right top, one that feels elevated, effortless, and versatile, can be surprisingly difficult.
This post is here to help you find that go-to piece, the one that makes getting dressed feel easy and pulled together without overthinking it!
Finding Your Elevated Go-to
A great top should do more than just complete an outfit. It should make you feel instantly confident. When you find one that works with your favorite jeans, the rest falls into place.
In true French fashion, it’s less about trends and more about timelessness, the kind of top you’ll keep reaching for season after season!
Here’s what to look for:
Necklines that flatter: Boat necks, square cuts, or off-the-shoulder shapes help frame the face and collarbone beautifully.
A timeless color palette: Black is an obvious choice. It’s elegant, versatile, and easy to dress up or down. But ivory, navy, and soft neutral tones are just as wearable.
Subtle structure: A well-cut top that gently hugs or skims the body gives just enough polish. Look for clean lines, soft tailoring, or sculptural details.
Quiet design details: Whether it’s a slightly asymmetric neckline, curved seam, open back or an elegant sleeve, these touches add interest without needing much else.
Styling tips to keep in mind:
Try a tonal base. Black on black or ivory on ivory always looks refined
Tuck your top into high-rise denim for a clean silhouette
Keep accessories minimal but intentional. A gold earring, a bold lip, or a sleek bag goes a long way
A lightweight layer like a blazer or cropped jacket adds an extra element if needed
Choose a shoe that matches your mood. Flats, loafers, or a low heel all work
The One I Recently Keep Reaching For
Wearing the Eliana Top in Size M - You can use my code MAEVAWITHAMOUR for 10% off at checkout when shopping on marcellanyc.com!
When I’m in that in-between moment, where I want to feel put together but not like I tried too hard, I always come back to the same combination: clean denim, a sleek shoe, and a black top with just enough detail.
Lately, the one I keep reaching for is the Eliana Top from Marcella, you can also find other options I love below!
Its neckline sits just off the shoulder. The silhouette has a sculpted feel without being restrictive, and the fit is flattering in the most effortless way.
I’ve styled it:
For a dinner date with vintage jeans and kitten heels
For casual drinks with friends, tailored denim shots and gold hoops
With a white maxi skirt and flat sandals for a simple, elevated daytime look
It checks all the boxes: black, structured, simple, and versatile. The kind of piece you don’t have to overthink. You just wear it, and it works. And if you caught my post on Marcella’s Alyssa Infinity Dress in Periwinkle, you already know I have a soft spot for pieces that blend elegance and ease!
Want to explore more options? Here are a few others that fit the same easy, elevated vibe:
Curious About Marcella?
Marcella is a woman-founded brand based between New York and Europe. Their designs lean minimalist, modern, and quietly bold. These are thoughtful pieces that make an impact without being loud. Even better? Every item sold funds school days for girls through their nonprofit partner CAMFED (Campaign for Female Education). It’s a mission that makes every piece feel more meaningful.
Find something you love? You can use code MAEVAWITHAMOUR for 10% off your order at marcellanyc.com!
Final Thoughts
The “jeans and a nice top” outfit may never be groundbreaking, but when you find your version of it, it becomes your fallback formula. The one that always makes you feel good, even when you’re short on time or inspiration.
Whether that’s the Eliana, a simple silk blouse, or a structured knit you love, the goal is the same. To feel confident and pulled together in a way that feels natural!
Because personal style doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to work for you!
With Amour,
M.