I love using the 1 base – 3 ways styling exercise to see more potential in my wardrobe. Today I’m using a fitted tank and relaxed trousers as my base because it’s such a timeless and versatile foundation to build on. You can easily dress it up or down.
It’s also perfect for travel if you want to keep your packing lean and still have something polished and comfortable to wear for different activities.
I’ve been thinking about my warm weather style more lately and this base is essentially how I plan to start any outfit once the snow has melted.
Read on to see how I style the Square Neck Tank and Plaza Trouser into three different spring looks! Both items were sent from one of my favourite Canadian brand’s KOTN*.
THE BASE
Square Neck Tank and Plaza Trouser
KOTN is my #1 Canadian source for high quality staples and basics like tees and tanks. They’re known for their use of Egyptian cotton, which is incredibly soft and highly durable.
BASE ELEMENT #1 – THE SQUARE NECK TANK
I really love the cut and fit of the Square Neck Tank. The shape is open and minimal without being too low cut or revealing. The straps are thick enough to cover a bra but with most fitted tanks I tend to wear these and skip a bra in the summer.
I’m so glad KOTN has added a touch of elastane to their fitted styles to help maintain the fit and shape throughout wear and washes. I’m also keen to try out their Rib Racer Tank now that I know how great the rib cotton feels on and that it washes up like new.
BASE ELEMENT #2 – THE PLAZA TROUSER
I’m in my trouser era right now and had to try out these Plaza Trousers. I instantly loved the Ivy colour way, which is a deep green/brown but they also come in black, alabaster and a gorgeous laurel oak (light green). I loved the relaxed fit, multiple pleats and minimal waistband.
They’re crafted in Portugal from a drapey 100% lyocell twill, which is an ultra‑breathable renewable fibre derived from wood pulp.
These definitely surpassed my expectations in terms of comfort and quality. The fit is spot on and perfect for curvier figures. I chose my size based on the garment measurements and couldn’t have hoped for a better fit in the waist and still have lots of room through the hip.
LOOK 1
The first way I styled this tank and trouser base was with a pair of black block heeled boots, a black blazer and a brown tote bag. It’s giving comfort forward sophistication.
This is an outfit formula I absolutely love to wear and always feel confident in.
LOOK 2
Next, I was inspired to style this base with my Gaspard cardigan tucked in and my high tops for a New Yorker in Paris vibe. It’s super cozy and very comfy while still feeling stylish. I layered on my Mac Coat and a structured bag to bring the look together.
LOOK 3
Lastly, I wondered if I could make trousers lean a little sporty and went for it. I added an oversized oxford left open on top, with a pair of white sneakers to keep the palette lean. I added my favourite black baseball cap and a sporty cross-body bag I wear on dog walks and for travel.
I wasn’t sure I loved this one until I ended up wearing it for the rest of the day after I’d finished shooting.
