When you know how to put together mix and match outfits, your closet suddenly feels three times bigger. But the magic isn’t about cramming in more clothes, it’s about buying better pieces that actually work together.
With the right closet essentials in your lineup, you can create polished looks on repeat without spending every morning in front of the mirror wondering what goes with what 👀
Trust me, as a full time carry-on traveler you learn real quick how to stretch a handful of clothes into weeks’ worth of looks. I can spot instantly which pieces will multiply my outfits and which ones won’t. Mixing and matching isn’t just my thing — it’s second nature.
So in this post, you’ll learn how to:
✅ Pick 9 pieces that actually go together.
✅ Build chic outfits by balancing color, fit, and layers.
✅ Shop smarter so every new piece earns its spot in your capsule wardrobe.
✅ Avoid the common mistakes that keep closets overflowing but uninspiring.
And because I love to show you the real-life version of what I’m teaching, I gave myself a little challenge: I pulled just 9 pieces from my closet — 3 bottoms, 3 tops, 2 layers, and 1 pair of shoes — and turned them into 9 totally different looks. You’ll see exactly how I did it, and then you can try it with your own wardrobe.
By the end, you’ll know how to create your own mix and match outfits anytime — and realize how powerful it is to have the right clothes.
Let’s take a look at the mix and match outfits that made this guide possible!
*this post contains affiliate links which means I receive a small commission if you shop for anything using my links. This doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps support my work. Thanks in advance! 🩵*
Estimated reading time: 14 minutes
How to Mix and Match Outfits (in Just 9 Pieces!)
So how do you actually create mix and match outfits that look polished instead of repetitive? The easiest way is to set some boundaries and treat it like a fun little challenge. Here’s what we’re going to do together:
👉 Pick 3 bottoms, 3 tops, 2 layers, and 1 pair of shoes.
That’s it — just 9 pieces. From there, you’ll see how many different chic outfits you can create. I’ll walk you through step by step so you know how to choose your pieces, and I’ll show you exactly what I picked for my own 9-piece challenge.
🎯 Step 1: Pick Your Bottoms
For this challenge, you’ll start by choosing 3 bottoms. Why? Because bottoms are the anchor of your mix and match outfits. Once you nail these, everything else — tops, shoes, layers — becomes easier to style.
Here’s how to pick your 3 bottoms:
- Choose 2 neutrals that fit you 10/10.
- Add 1 personality piece — this could be a print, a pop of color, or just something that feels fun.
- Make sure all 3 bottoms are pieces you love to wear. They have to be comfortable and flattering .
💡 How I did it – For this 9-piece challenge, I picked:
- Black wide-leg joggers – my comfy but polished piece. (another option here, if mine are sold out).
- Brown cropped wide-leg pants – a great neutral that works year-round.
- A leopard silk midi skirt – my personality piece that’s still easy to mix with other neutrals.
🎯 Step 2: Pick Your Tops
Now that you have your bottoms, it’s time to choose 3 tops that can rotate easily across all of them. This part is key: your tops should match every single bottom you picked. That’s how you end up with 9 base outfits (3 bottoms × 3 tops).
Here’s how to pick your 3 tops:
- Choose mostly neutrals so they’ll mix seamlessly with both your neutral and personality bottoms.
- Pick pieces that are different from each other – If all your tops look alike, your outfits will too. Go for variety — maybe one sleek, one textured, one casual — so every combination feels fresh.
- Add texture or detail (ribbed fabric, knit, etc.) so your outfits don’t feel flat.
👉 Why this matters: if you decided to add just one more top that also matched all 3 bottoms, you’d suddenly have 12 outfits (4 x 3). That’s the power of mix and match outfits — the math multiplies your options without multiplying your closet.
💡 How I did it for this 9-piece challenge:
- White micro rib turtleneck — clean and crisp, perfect for layering.
- Black mock-neck sleeveless top — sleek and minimal, easy to dress up or down.
- Beige cropped sweater tank (similar) — adds texture and contrast without being overpowering.
With these 3 tops, each of my 3 bottoms worked in 3 different ways — giving me 9 outfits before I even added layers. So let’s get to those, shall we?
🎯 Step 3: Pick Your Layers
Layers are the secret weapon for creating endless mix and match outfits. They don’t just keep you warm — they completely change the vibe of a look.
Here’s how to pick your 2 layers:
- Stick to classics like a denim jacket, blazer, or cardigan.
- Think proportions: cropped works with wide-leg pants, longer layers balance fitted bottoms.
- Keep them neutral so they play nicely with all your tops and bottoms. But also don’t be afraid to try bold colors! You may be surprised with how well these can work in a small capsule.
👉 The math: each of your 9 base outfits can be worn 3 ways — no layer, with layer 1, or with layer 2. That’s 27 outfits from just 9 pieces. Crazy, right?
💡 How I did it for this challenge:
I chose a denim jacket for that effortless casual feel, and a classic chore jacket to add structure and polish. Throw either one over the same look and it’ll look like a totally different outfit with ZERO extra effort.
🎯 Step 4: Pick Your Shoes
Shoes are the finishing touch that tie your mix and match outfits together. The right pair will work with every outfit and keep your whole capsule feeling cohesive.
Here’s how to pick your shoes:
- Choose one pair that goes with all your bottom pieces (sneakers, loafers, or neutral sandals).
- Add a second pair ONLY if you need to change the mood — think sneakers for casual days, sandals or heels for dressier nights.
- Prioritize comfort. If you can’t walk in them for hours, they won’t work.
💡 How I did it for this challenge:
I kept things simple with my white leather sneakers as my main pair, since they worked with every outfit. But I also swapped in leather sandals for one look to show how a quick shoe change can instantly make the same outfit feel more elevated. (but that look would have also worked with the sneakers)
>>> PS: if the white sneakers are sold out, check out these: option 1 – option 2
🎯 Step 5: Mix and Match!
Time to see the magic. Here are the 9 base mix and match outfits I created with just 9 pieces:
⭐ Bottom 1: Black Wide-Leg Joggers
These are the ones I have, but they’re often sold out. Here’s another great option!
Look 1 → Joggers + Beige Sweater Tank + Denim Jacket + Sneakers + Raffia Crossbody + Pearl Earrings
This is the secret to mix and match outfits: take something comfy (like joggers) and pair it with texture and a classic denim jacket. It feels casual but polished — the kind of outfit that works for errands and coffee dates.
Look 2 → Joggers + White Turtleneck + Sneakers + Pearl Earrings + Raffia Crossbody
Crisp and minimal. The white organic cotton turtleneck brightens the black base, while pearl earrings add just enough polish to make it look styled without trying too hard.
Proof that basics can look chic when paired intentionally.
Look 3 → Joggers + Black Mock-Neck + Chore Jacket + Sneakers + Pearl Earrings + Raffia Crossbody
An all-black base always looks sleek, and the chore jacket warms it up so it’s not too stark. A headband and pearl earrings soften the look, keeping it chic instead of harsh.
⭐ Bottom 2: Leopard Silk Midi Skirt
Look 4 → Leopard Skirt + White Turtleneck + Denim Jacket + Sneakers + Raffia Crossbody + Gold Earrings
This is where you see the magic of mix and match outfits—a polished skirt instantly becomes casual when you add a denim jacket and sneakers. The gold earrings add just the right amount of polish, so you don’t feel overdressed for daytime.
Look 5 → Leopard Skirt + Black Mock-Neck + Sneakers + Pearl Earrings
Bold but simple. Black + leopard is a power combo on its own, and the pearl earrings soften the look so it feels chic instead of harsh. Proof that the right accessories can make a statement outfit feel effortless.
Look 6 → Leopard Skirt + Beige Sweater Tank + Chore Jacket + Sneakers + Gold Necklace
Mixing texture (knit + silk) keeps this outfit from feeling flat, while the earthy jacket tones it down so the skirt doesn’t steal the show. The gold jewelry makes it playful but still put-together.
Accessory note: I’m rotating the same few pieces (raffia crossbody, pearl/gold jewelry, leather belt, headband). Tiny swaps = totally different chic outfits without adding more clothes.
⭐ Bottom 3: Brown Cropped Wide-Leg Pants
These are the ones I have (I got them in 4 colors!). Wearing size 4 inseam 24″. I’m 5’4″ and about 130 lbs for reference.
If sold out, this brand will always have other great options.
Look 7 → Brown Pants + Beige Sweater Tank + Sandals + Gold Necklace + Raffia Crossbody
Monochrome magic! Pairing beige and brown creates an instantly chic look without effort. The leather sandals make it feel a little dressier — an easy dinner option without having to “dress up.”
Look 8 → Brown Pants + Black Mock-Neck + Denim Jacket + Sneakers + Raffia Crossbody
This is proof that black and brown do work together. The denim jacket breaks up the dark tones, and the crossbody lightens the whole outfit so it feels balanced.
Look 9 → Brown Pants + White Turtleneck + Sneakers + Pearl Earrings
Fresh and bright. White against brown keeps the outfit crisp, while pearl earrings add that touch of polish. It’s simple, but in a “yes, I have my life together” kind of way.
One more time, the 9 hero pieces for this challenge (+ accessories)
Bottoms
- Black Wide-Leg Joggers (Quince Performance Tech Wide Leg Pants – when in stock, Albion Fit is a great alternative)
- Brown Cropped Wide-Leg Pants (Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Cropped Wide Leg Pants – I have these pants in 4 colors!)
- Leopard Silk Midi Skirt (Quince 100% Washable Silk Skirt – Size S)
Tops
- White Micro Rib Turtleneck (Size S)
- Black Mock-Neck Sleeveless Top (Size S)
- Beige Cropped Sweater Tank (Quince Eco-Knit Cropped Sweater Tank – Size S)
Layers
- Denim Jacket (classic staple, mine linked here – Size S)
- Tobacco Chore Jacket (Quince Organic Comfort Stretch Chore Jacket – Size XS)
Shoes
- White Leather Sneakers (Quince 100% Leather Everyday Sneakers). If sold out, these two are great options: option 1 – option 2
Accessories
- Raffia Crossbody Bag (I’ve had this bag for over a year of everyday use – LOVE IT!)
- Beige Headband
- Pearl Earrings
- Gold Earrings + Gold Necklace
- Allegra European Leather Belt
The Right Pieces = Endless Outfits
And there you have it — 9 pieces, 9 base looks, and up to 27 different mix and match outfits just by swapping layers and accessories. This is the magic of working smarter with your closet: you don’t need more, you just need the right pieces that love to play together.
💡 Ready to Try It?
This challenge proves how powerful it is to create mix and match outfits — but what if your closet doesn’t make this easy yet?
That’s where the Closet Quiz comes in. In just 7 quick questions, you’ll find out if your wardrobe is ready for mix and match magic — or if it’s secretly holding you back. Once you get your result, I’ll walk you through the next steps to start building a closet you actually love.
👉 Take the Closet Quiz here — it only takes a minute, and it could completely change how you feel about getting dressed.
Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t to have more clothes — it’s to have the right pieces that give you endless outfits.
Thanks for reading! 🩵
XO,
Aimara
About the author:
Hi, I’m Aimara! I’ve been traveling full-time since 2021 while living out of a 20″ carry-on suitcase.
Learning how to create mix and match outfits isn’t just something I write about — it’s the only way I survive with such a tiny closet.
Through my blog Ways of Style, I teach women how to pack smarter, shop better, and build closets that actually work for their lives. Whether you’re getting dressed at home or packing for your next trip, my goal is to help you feel confident and stylish without the stress of “I have nothing to wear.”
If this post inspired you, I think you’ll love diving deeper into some of my other favorites. Each one is filled with practical tips to help you create more outfits with less, shop smarter, and feel amazing in what you wear:
- How to nail monochromatic outfits (60+ looks by color)
- One striped sweater – 6 fall friendly outfits! (easy to copy!)
- How to transition your closet from summer to fall (35 outfit ideas + strategies)
- How to accentuate your waist (strategies for each body type)
- How to create a no-black capsule wardrobe (22 pieces, 63 outfits)
Take a peek — I promise you’ll walk away with at least one new idea you can use today. 💕
Do you feel one step closet to creating mix and match outfits on your own? Save this article on Pinterest! ⬇️
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