In today’s edition of random things we’ve observed after spending way too many hours “shopping” on the internet for work: the Free People site is a treasure trove of styling tricks. Seriously — the gems we’ve happened on are often the talk of our team Slack channel. From a perfectly executed sock-and-sandal combo to inventive suggestions for how to rock a jumpsuit (have we been doing it wrong this whole time?), the brand’s online imagery doubles as a bounty of fashion-forward outfit ideas begging to be tested.
While many of us have retreated into the comforting crevices of our couches during this period of uncertainty, the concept of productivity about as foreign to us as a Friday night out, Free People has lost no time pulling out all the styling stops. They are doing the most with their already covetable selection of bohemian-chic apparel, and honestly, we just wanted to doff our proverbial hat to the FP photo studio team. Because after rotating through the same sweats and leggings in the past month, we were almost beginning to lose touch with our sartorial savoir-faire. But we see you, Free People, and we appreciate your continued effort to keep your digital window shoppers inspired, engaged, and raring to get dressed up again.
So after an enormous amount of time perusing the company’s website, we’ve put together an analysis of sorts to shine a light on its low-key, yet hyper-detailed styling game.
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Where to even start with this ideal mélange of cozy and chic? The form-fitting shape of this ivory-hued bike short onesie has found its perfect match in an oversized cardigan of a similarly creamy shade. A flowy top layer like this balances out the clingy nature of its partner garment.
Intimately Zoe Bike Short Romper, $, available at Free People
So keep calm and romper on, even in a comfortable look that’s outside of your comfort zone. This piece is designed to be worn many ways, from the window sill and beyond. It can even be your anchor item when attempting to execute oversized-hoodie-and-Birkenstock levels of styling.
Intimately Zoe Bike Short Romper, $, available at Free People
Oh, and lest you get too cozy in your bike short romper, you can always throw on a blazer, some layered necklaces, and get down to business.
FP Zoe Bike Short Romper, $, available at Free People
Make like Katie Holmes and skip all but one vital button. She picked a cardigan, Free People picked a shirt. Either way, this understated yet revealing look is saturated in ’90s nostalgia — and we embrace that vibe wholeheartedly.
Free People Double Cloth Buttondown Shirt, $, available at Free People
Ok, ok — so this is something we’ve encountered more than once on Free People’s site and it’s almost starting to grow on us. The tip: wearing coveralls doesn’t mean you have to actually cover it all, so set those arms free and tie the top part of the suit around your waist for a major styling moment requiring minimum effort.
Free People Gia Cord Coverall, $, available at Free People
See? Here it is again! Who’s styling calling card is this? Show yourselves!
Free People Charlie Coveralls, $, available at Free People
We all love the look of over-accessorized appendages, be it fingers wrapped in all sorts of metals or wrists stacked to the elbow in bangles. It looks hard, but not when you can cheat a little and buy a cool set of rings to wear all at once. And paired with a moto jacket? Bold move, FP, bold move.
Free People Everything Ring Set, $, available at Free People
Why not give your indoor shoe game a little extra attention right now à la this stylish woman gazing longingly at the outdoors? We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: the sock-and-sandal pairing is absolutely happening, and we’re here for it. Don’t try to resist the funky chunky goodness of this classic combo. Now’s not the time to shy away from that cozy life.
Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Birkenstock Sandals, $, available at Free People
Seriously… JUST DO IT!
Birkenstock Boston Birkenstock Slip-On, $, available at Free People
There is no denying the fact that leggings have earned their keep as far as pants are concerned. Wear them with an excessively large jacket (we’re talking down-to-the-knees kind of oversized) for the I-just-threw-this-on feel that’s still polished.
FP Movement High-Rise Ankle Home Stretch Leggings, $, available at Free People
While the ideal stay-at-home uniform seems to be all sweatsuits, all the time, you can elevate the look with a different take on a coordinated outfit. This super-soft set features a cropped top and maxi skirt for a welcome change from your comfy pants, although you’re encouraged to keep those on underneath too according to this styling situation. Add your favorite pair of cute slippers and you’ve got yourself a winning indoor ensemble no one will ever actually see. And if this delicious oat shade doesn’t do it for you (not the best option if you’re prone to snacking stains), you have seven other colors to choose from, all with inviting names like “Golden Bronze,” “Paradise Pink,” and “Glacier Grey.”
FP Beach Morningside Set, $, available at Free People
Next up: a little proportion play. A boxy, breezy silhouette on top with the sleek fit of a biker short on bottom does the job, and while the incorporation of animal print is not required, it’s highly encouraged.
Free People Lucy Pullover, $, available at Free People
Since we’re on the subject of animal print, don’t be shy about going all out Tiger Queen style from your head to your tippy-toe in a big cat pattern.
Emilio Cavallini On The Prowl Print Tights, $, available at Free People
But, wait! The FP styling crew has another option for a more subtle look. Layer the animal print tights under ripped jeans for a cheeky peek-a-boo moment.
Emilio Cavallini On The Prowl Print Tights, $, available at Free People
Nice, this one is easy! Dress up a lived-in pair of jeans with a blazer, but keep it playful with a bralette and sneakers FTW.
We The Free CRVY High-Rise Vintage Straight Jeans, $, available at Free People
Free People is here to remind us all that even though you’re not on vacation, you can opt for a pair of statement earrings that make you feel like you’re somewhere fun. Say yes to the vibrant shades and pom-pom detailing you’d normally reserve for a beach getaway. Close your eyes and let your jewelry transport you somewhere tropical…
STELLA + RUBY Calypso Dangle Earrings, $, available at Free People
…Even if you’re simply queuing up for another Zoom call. See? The earrings are just as transportive with ye olde sweater and second-day non-ocean-misted hair.
STELLA + RUBY Calypso Dangle Earrings, $, available at Free People
With this sold-together dress/top duo, Free People did the work for you by designing the perfectly mismatched stripe on stripe style. Bonus styling points for the unexpected pop of color at the waist and grounding chunky white boot.
FP Beach Zinnia Striped Set, $, available at Free People
Ah yes, the good old backwards top trick — any fashion risk-taker worth her salt will casually tell you it’s the best way to turn one top into two.
Free People Go For Gold Reversible Pullover, $, available at Free People
See?
When buying a scarf, consider its potential beyond the neck. You can wear it as a top if the weather’s warm enough (or if you severely under-packed for a trip).
Free People Voyager Block Print Bandana, $, available at Free People
You can also wear it as a hat, like this! It looks good and allows you to get away with not doing anything about your hair.
Free People Voyager Block Print Bandana, $, available at Free People
Or fold it up into more of a head-band sorta thing. Again, anywhere but the neck is how all the cool kids are doing it these days.
Free People Voyager Block Print Bandana, $, available at Free People
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