Clinton Kelly Shares His Tried-and-Trued Fashion Formula for the Perfect Outfit

Viewer Kelly is tired of her wardrobe and feeling like she’s wearing the same boring pants and tops over and over again in her daily routine – and haven’t we all been there.

"I work in a corporate but creative office and feel like I’m wearing the same boring pants and top every day. I want to look trendy and cute, not sloppy or silly! How can I put together an outfit that is stylish and polished at the same time?" - Kelly

"I think everybody can get into a fashion rut!" Rach says.

Thankfully, style and entertaining expert, and contributing editor for Woman’s Day magazine, Clinton Kelly, is back on the show to share his tried-and-true formula for assembling a chic look that’ll work for almost any occasion in just five easy steps.

1) Start with a fantastic pair of jeans – and yes, you may have to search to find them

“The average woman will have to try on 20 pairs of jeans before she finds the right style,” Clinton notes, so if you’ve given up after after trying on just a few pairs before, time to get back in that dressing room!

“A fantastic jean is the number one thing you should have in your wardrobe,” he says.

Clinton’s golden rule for jeans shopping? “The most important thing to think about when buying a pair of jeans is, ‘Do they make my butt look cute?’” So don’t forget to check out that back side in that three-way mirror!

Clinton's Pick: A pair of Not Your Daughters Jeans

2) Add a stylish, structured jacket (not a bulky coat)

“You have to find a jacket that fits you really well and says something about your personality,” Clinton says. Think about options like a blazer, a bomber or a moto jacket – just make sure there’s structure to it and it fits well. Kelly went bold with a red leather moto jacket, which makes a stylish statement (with just a touch of edginess).

Also, think about how your jacket works with your denim – if your jeans are distressed, a more polished jacket will boost the look. If your jeans are a more classic style, consider a jacket with more character.

Clinton's Pick: I.N.C. Faux-Leather Moto Jacket In Real Red

Related: How to Copy Meghan Markle’s Style – No Matter What Size Your Are!

3) Your blouse or top should compliment your jacket

If your jacket has a print or pattern, choose a solid top, whereas if your jacket is a solid color, Clinton recommends choosing a top that has a bit of a print in it, which adds interest to the outfit.

Rach loves Kelly’s choice, a cream blouse with a delicate print. “The print is very feminine, which softens the fact she’s in a moto,” she says. Agreed!

Clinton's Pick: Alfani Striped Surplice Top

4) Remember, shoes always set the tone for the outfit

"There's a reason why nuns don’t wear stilettos and strippers don’t wear orthopedic shoes," Clinton jokes. LOL Clinton! 

In all seriousness, the shoes you choose say a lot about you, Clinton stresses, so choose wisely! Kelly opted for a pair of low black boots with a short heel that have a snake print for a bit of added but understated flair, and Rach and Clinton approve – they’re sensible enough to wear all day but chic enough to transition into the evening, too.

Clinton's Pick: Michael Kors Elaine Booties

5) And last but not least: jewelry

Whatever your style, jewelry gives your outfit an extra piece of interest that tells the world a little about you! Whether a bold necklace, or bold earrings, or maybe something more subtle and smaller, the important point is to choose pieces that represent a little bit of your personality and personal style.

With just a few thoughtful updates to your wardrobe, you’ll be ready to kiss that fashion rut good-bye!

Clinton's Pick: Givenchy Gold-Tone Pavé Fireball Pendant Necklace

Related: Clinton Kelly’s 5 Essential Rules for Menswear Shopping