Olivia Wilde is having a minimalist style moment. Over the past few weeks, the director and actress has been busy promoting her new film The Invite, looking incredibly effortless while doing so—thanks in part to stylist Karla Welch. What’s most striking is the clean, cool approach she’s taken to dressing for this particular press tour, something that feels like the perfect blueprint for summer-in-the-city styling.
A wardrobe built with closet essentials is the secret—think: relaxed T-shirts, billowy trousers, and soft leather loafers—foundations we’ve seen her remix in a few different ways as of late. Sticking to a neutrals-heavy palette of all-black or white, as she often does, allows her to mix and match—and play with silhouette. A simple tee paired with pleated pants is an easy formula to build upon for example. Worn with a sleek belt and logo-less bag, it’s an easy office look that also works for a spontaneous weekday dinner. Add flip-flops and a ball cap and you have the perfect weekend look. Despite seeming pared-back, her uniform encourages experimentation.
The Olivia Wilde-Inspired Uniform
Sticking to a roster of brands with that share the same vibe helps, too when building out new looks. A devotee of The Row, Wilde has carried the Cecily mini tote bag numerous times in the past few weeks, sported the striped Parave silk button down, as well as the now sold-out Galileo pants. She also chose an apron dress from Calvin Klein Collection as a slightly sexier spin on the classic LBD—one we’d gladly consider as a chic wedding guest dress option this summer.
Wilde, of course, leaves plenty of room to incorporate affordable staples from contemporary brands, such as the sporty technical-taffeta skirt from The Frankie Shop she wore with a gray crewneck sweatshirt while in London. It’s these thoughtful contrasts, still rooted in minimalism, that give her wardrobe timeless appeal.
Ahead, dive into our favorite summer-in-the-city looks inspired by Olivia Wilde—all ready to wear on repeat.
Photo: Raymond Hall
