A reader recently asked me a great question: “I love feminine and romantic styles of clothes, but I’m really low-maintenance. How can I incorporate these together when I feel like they’re opposites?”
This is such a common concern, especially for women who are reconnecting with their style later in life. There’s a belief that to look feminine, you must fuss over flounces, frills, and floaty fabrics—and that to be low-maintenance, you have to settle for plain, practical, or even “masculine” styles.
But here’s the truth: Feminine and low-maintenance are not mutually exclusive.
You can absolutely honour your romantic side and keep things effortless—once you understand what “low-maintenance” means for you.
Step One: Define Your Version of Low-Maintenance
Low-maintenance can mean different things for different people. Ask yourself:
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Is it about fabric care? Maybe you hate ironing and want clothes that are ready to wear straight from the wash.
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Is it about getting dressed quickly? You don’t want to build complex outfits or layer lots of pieces.
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Is it about accessorising? You love the look of jewellery but don’t enjoy putting it on.
- Is it about practicality? You think that feminine clothes can’t also be practical?
Once you know why you prefer low-maintenance, you can make smarter, more aligned style choices.
I’d call this outfit both feminine and low maintenance. It requires no ironing, it’s comfortable and practical. The faux fur looks glamorous and impractical, but it’s actually super comfortable and easy to wear. The pink blouse is wash and wear (no ironing) and the denim skirt is stretchy, comfortable and low maintance.
Step Two: Build Feminine Details into Your Clothes
If you’re not keen on accessorising or layering, let your garments do the work for you. Feminine style doesn’t have to mean “fussy”—it can show up in subtle, integrated details.
Here are a few low-effort ways to add a feminine feel:
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T-shirts with built-in detail: Think soft florals, pastel tones, or gentle ruching around the shoulders.
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Decorative necklines: A top with embellishment or lace near the collar eliminates the need for a necklace.
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Soft structure: Look for garments with gentle gathers, puff sleeves, or curved seams that flatter without fuss.
These pieces give you the romantic feeling you love—without adding extra time to your routine.
Step Three: Embrace the Power of the One-and-Done Outfit
If your ideal outfit is “put it on and go,” dresses can be your best friend. By nature, dresses are feminine—and when chosen in easy-care fabrics, they’re also incredibly simple to wear.
Try:
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Knit dresses that don’t wrinkle and move with your body
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Denim skirt and top – practical and low maintenance, but more feminine than a pair of jeans
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Wrap style dresses that flatter your shape and feel soft, not stiff
This wrap dress is super easy to wear – it’s low maintenance – a stretch cotton knit that I can wash and wear, plus when I put it on, I don’t have to add any other garments – it’s a one and done outfit, it’s comfortable and feminine.
‘This way, you’ve honoured your style personality and simplified your wardrobe.
You Get to Define Your Own Style Equation
Ultimately, there’s no rulebook that says romantic means high-maintenance, or that low-maintenance means boring. With a little intention, your wardrobe can reflect both your style and your lifestyle.
The more you understand yourself—your preferences, values, and practical needs—the easier it becomes to create a style system that works for you.
Remember: style isn’t about following rules. It’s about making choices aligned with who you are now.
Have a question like Nicola’s? I’d love to hear from you. Your curiosity helps others feel seen—and that’s what real style is all about.
