If you’re on socials, you’ve probably heard the phrase “very demure, very mindful.” Or, maybe you have a teen that won’t. stop. saying. it. It’s one of the billions of silly trends floating around and the opposite of Brat Summer. Explanation for that, another time. 

So, what’s this got to do with TME and fashion? We thought it’d be kinda fun to roll with it and see if we can come up with outfits that give very demure, very mindful. For the laughs and some fun. And this is a bit of a style challenge for me because, if I was being truthful, I probably give more Brat than demure or mindful.

Outfits For Fall That Read: Very Demure, Very Mindful

Once the wheels started churning, I realized, wait… the trends we’re peeking at right now fit this phrase so well. Ballet flats, romantic tops and shrunken cardigans (just to name a few). And, if you’re wondering what exactly constitutes demure fashion overall, my interpretation is this: refined details, soft luxe fabrics, floral patterns, and simple accessories. Think: Audrey Hepburn or Dior, for example. High-necklines technically fit in a literal sense of the definition*, but I’d argue a cami with delicate lace details fits, too (but that might be the Brat in me). See below for the actual definition from Google that I hate. It’s 2024, we’re rewriting the rules.

*reserved, modest, and shy (typically used of a woman) or even worse, (esp. of women and girls) quiet and well-behaved. Bleck. As a wise woman once observed, “Well-behaved women seldom make history.” And that’s the wave I’m riding in my version of demure outfits.😉

1. Shrunken Cardigan + Wide-Leg Jeans

This is the perfect example of a really easy-to-achieve outfit that always looks good. Something about the cardigan style tops feel especially luxe. It helps dress up looser jeans, too. 

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NOTES: Okay, I kinda love the way those gray tights look with the ballet flats. Much to think about here. And, I know I said simple accessories, but I’ve been eyeing those vintagey earrings ever since S showed ’em to me. Despite the size, something about them still feels delicate. (They come in the most gorgeous orangey-red color, too). My love affair with Sézane officially knows no bounds.

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2. Turtleneck + Slim Black Pants

I know that you know the iconic Audrey Hepburn look, with the slim black pants and ballet flats. The only thing I’d switch — the tight ballet-style top for a chunky turtleneck sweater. I might add in some pointed-toe heels if I’m feelin’ a little fancy. BTW…cherry red might give more femme fatale than demure, but I’d argue a small top handle bag and pointed-toe heels fit. And, it just looks really freakin’ good. It’s my color for fall.

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NOTES: Those Quince pants are under $50 right now, and have two inseam options. Woo! I keep finding these cherry red pointed-toe kitten heels, but the ones from J.Crew are officially the pair I want. I just love the super thin bows and square-toe.

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3. Patterned Dress + Tall Boots

Anyone else seeing these countryside-chic looks out there? Did I think that would be on my radar? Absolutely not. Forever a city girl at heart. But guys, I’m all about it. To make it feel more me, I’d wear tall suede or leather boots and a little shoulder bag. I’d keep the jewelry super simple. 

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NOTES: The original plan was one floral dress, but Reformation sucked me in like they always do. So, I couldn’t choose between this pretty gingham or the green floral. I’m completely into those muted colors.

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4. Cashmere + Trouser Shorts

This outfit started with Abby talking about tights with trouser shorts, then Shana talking about a cashmere sweater with a frilly collar. Naturally, I couldn’t let this outfit be too demure for my personal taste. So, that’s where the black boots come in. It’s very demure and very mindful enough for me.

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NOTES: Originally when I was looking at these boots, the brown was speaking to me. But the black?? Feels even more chic. And — that Ref collared shirt is selling out, UGH. So, here’s a similar one (that I might like even better).

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5. Romantic Top + Flowy Trousers

I was over polka dots for a bit, but they’re officially back on my map. And, for another nod to Audrey and her black pants and a-line skirts — super flowy trousers. I especially love the way they look with the off-the-shoulder top and slight bell sleeves for a not-so-corporate look.

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NOTES: How good is that polka dot top?! I truthfully haven’t stopped thinking about it. The sleeeeves! Oh, and another pair of J.Crew heels that I have my eyes on. It’s the little details that do it for me.

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Am I very demure, very mindful, yet?

-Danielle