Denim Shirt – Gap Factory – a few years old – similar here, here and here.

White “Vintage Cotton” t-shirt – J.Crew Factory – a few years old – similar here.  This shirt has a hole/snag in the front that prevents me from wearing it alone, but it is so comfortable I can’t bring myself to get rid of it when it is go great for layering.

Grey skinny jeans – Banana Republic Factory – at least a year ago, probably way more – like here or here.  At the actual store, the “degree of distress” options varied from none (like I picked) to a lot (like the link). I am exactly 5 feet tall, so finding pants or jeans in the right length off the rack does not happen frequently.  I appreciate it when things fit without requiring alterations, because, if done by a professional, alterations increases the actual price per item by at least $100**.

**Price includes mandatory “added frustration” premium.

Grey ankle boots – Riverberry – purchased through Amazon -the grey does not appear to be available now, but the black or tan can be found here.

Cream belt with gold stud detail – Amiee Lynn – recent steal from Ross at just $6.99! I was not familiar with this brand, and I was not able to learn much from the Google search I just did, but it looks like Amiee Lynn was named as an up and coming brand already making its presence known back in 2014.   I love a good bargain, and I am really happy with this belt.  It has gotten worn quite a few times since I purchased it a couple weeks ago, so I have already gotten my money’s worth out of this accessory.  The great part is that I keep finding more and more outfits with which to wear it.

This is a pretty dressed down, casual outfit but don’t be fooled.  There are definite rules about how to wear jeans with ankle boots.  You don’t believe me?  See Pinterest, generally.  First, pick the right kind of jeans to wear with ankle boots: skinnies or boyfriend are my favorites, although I’m still trying to get the boyfriend/boot look right.  I like it on other people, but not sure if it is a good look for me because of my vertically-challenged status.  Whatever type of jeans you choose, the jeans should neither go inside nor outside of the boots: it’s rolling, cuffing, and scrunching time.  I am a big fan of the skinny cuff and half cuff, as shown here.  How did I do?

 If you wanted to jazz up this basic outfit a bit, try adding some more flashy accessories to pop off the muted blue/grey tones.  Here are some great add-on options to take this outfit from daytime casual to daytime glam, or from daytime to evening.