Effortless “not so effortless” style

Hello Kitty keychain makes an appearance on this student’s black and white patterned bag on Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025. Photo Credit // Lorelei DiSanto @loreleis_lens

How great would it feel to wake up, throw on the first outfit you see, and look incredible? There are many celebrities, models, friends or family who, no matter what they’re wearing, look so great that it appears effortless. But, is there really such a thing as “effortless” style?

This is a tale as old as time. It has been a topic in the fashion world where people have tried to determine whether it is a real thing or not. The effortless style is more about finding what you are comfortable with and trying out from there, bringing confidence and the “wow” factor to your already great base.

You will never know what suits your vibe until you try it out. Sure, not all the things you are going to try will work, but rest assured that with some time and dedication, you will figure it out. 

A recent article by Vogue’s Daisy Maldonado talks about the myth of effortless style. In the article, fashion writer and analyst Mandy Lee mentions that “the biggest thing you can invest into your personal style is actually time”.  

The “effort” will always be present, mentions Maldonado. Effortless style goes along with how comfortable the clothes suit you.

Effortless style resonates with simplicity. Cathy Kasterin mentions how Pamela Anderson’s style is “pared-back, simple, cool and effortless”. Pamela goes even more on the “simple” and “effortless” look by not wearing any makeup to red carpets or events since 2023. She mentions in a USA Today article that “She is not trying to be the prettiest girl in the room”. By keeping it simple, and feeling free, she embodies the effortless look.


The WSJ’s guide on how men can master the breezy, effortless style tells readers to “Know the difference between effortless and sloppy”. Personally, I think that men’s fashion has evolved a lot through the years. I feel that we want to make it as simple and as easy as possible, yet keeping it cool or unique. Making a white t-shirt and jeans look good has a lot to do with how you wear them; another advice from the WSJ is playing with accessories. Accessorizing with rings and bracelets, tucked in with a belt, glasses and caps or even eye-catching shoes! Those are elements that help the effortless fit. It comes down to cleanliness, respect, and common sense. 

Overall, the idea of effortless style is finding what you feel suits you the best and always incorporating something different. Taking time and trying different styles will help meet that “effortless” version of you. So, what are you waiting for; go out there and don’t be afraid to bring 15 items of clothing to the fitting room! The worst that could happen is that you don’t like it.