It goes without saying that models are a key part of the fashion week scene. On the runway, they bring a designer’s vision to life. But their influence doesn’t stop there. In the world of street style, models have a particular kind of effortless cool that the industry has long admired. It’s what fashion insiders call the “model off-duty” look, and it’s one of the most watched and copied styles out there. So what exactly makes it?
SHOP THE OFF-DUTY EDIT
How to Get the Model Off-Duty Look
– The Ringer Tee – Coach Horse and Carriage t-shirt – Jump to review – $125 COACH
– The Day-to-Night Shoulder Bag – Coach Twin Turnlock Waverly bag – Jump to review – $295 COACH
– The Relaxed Barn Jacket – Coach barn jacket – Jump to review – $495 COACH
– The Directional Denim Midi – Coach maxi denim skirt – Jump to review – $350 COACH
– The Slouchy Tote – Coach Brooklyn shoulder bag 28 – Jump to review – $295 COACH
– The Printed Scarf – Coach Trompe L’oeil scarf – Jump to review – $95 COACH
– The Baggy Jean – Coach Sculpted C denim pants – Jump to review – $295 COACH
– The Raffia Mary Jane – Coach Sculpted C Mary Janes – Jump to review – $175 COACH
Of course, models off-duty aren’t all the same, but there are some clear patterns. Easy basics are key: wide-leg or straight-leg jeans, simple trousers, and practical outerwear like leather jackets, trench coats, and field coats—always worn a bit loose and relaxed. There’s often a tomboy feel too, with vintage tees and slightly worn-in knits. Still, the look rarely feels boring. There’s usually a fashion-forward twist, whether it’s the latest It bag, a great pair of designer sunglasses, or a trendy sneaker.
If you want to dress like a model off-duty (and why wouldn’t you?), check out the looks below.
Slouchy Leather Jacket + Distressed Jeans
Distressed or reworked jeans with a leather jacket is a classic model-off-duty combo. Just add a ringer tee, black sneakers, sunglasses, and an It bag.
– Save to wishlist – Coach Heritage C leather jacket – $795 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Horse and Carriage t-shirt – $125 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach repurposed jeans – $595 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach retro runners – $155 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Kisslock barrel bag – $495 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach C Hardware cat eye sunglasses – $181 COACH
An Oversized Trench + Baggy Jeans
When it comes to slouch, more is more—models love an oversized look. Here, a roomy trench meets wide-leg jeans, flat sneakers, and a baby tee.
– Save to wishlist – Coach repurposed cotton trench coat – $795 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach ringer t-shirt – $95 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach denim workwear pants – $295 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach soft sneakers – $155 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Twin Turnlock Waverly bag – $295 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach leather baseball hat – $195 COACH
A Field Jacket + Denim Midi
Give a pleated denim midi a model-off-duty twist by pairing it with simple, boyish extras like a field jacket, sleek tank, and thong sandals.
– Save to wishlist – Coach barn jacket – $495 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach maxi denim skirt – $350 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach New York tank top – $50 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach jelly flip flops – $95 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Brooklyn shoulder bag 28 – $295 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Trompe L’oeil scarf – $95 COACH
A Suede Bomber + Classic Denim
Models are often spotted outside shows in classic blue jeans and a bomber. Pair this suede version with a knit tank and raffia flats for a spring-friendly look.
– Save to wishlist – Coach Heritage C bomber jacket – $795 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach restored neutral knit tank – $175 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Sculpted C denim pants – $295 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Sculpted C Mary Janes – $175 COACH
– Save to wishlist – Coach Alter/Ego shoulder bag – $295 COACHAdd to wishlist
Coach C Hardware oval sunglasses – $190
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs based on the topic How to get that model offduty look in 4 easy steps
BeginnerLevel Questions
1 What exactly is a model offduty look
Its the casual effortless style models wear when theyre not on the runway or at a photoshoot Think comfy basics that somehow look polished and cool
2 Do I need to buy expensive designer clothes to pull this off
No The look is about how you wear the clothes not the price tag Highstreet basics are perfect The trick is fit fabric and confidence
3 What are the 4 easy steps usually involved
While the specific steps vary the core formula is usually
1 Start with a neutral base
2 Add one statement piece
3 Choose comfortable clean footwear
4 Keep hair and makeup minimal
4 Can I wear this look to the office
It depends on your office dress code For a casual or creative workplace yesswap ripped jeans for dark clean ones and sneakers for leather loafers For a formal office its too relaxed
Intermediate Practical Questions
5 How do I make a simple tshirt and jeans look modellike instead of sloppy
Focus on fit and finish
Tshirt Should not be baggy or too tight A slightly cropped or boxy fit works best
Jeans Highwaisted straightleg or slightly loose in a dark or clean wash
The tuck Tuck the front of your tee in just a little to define your waist
Accessories Add a thin belt a simple watch or a pair of classic sunglasses
6 What are the biggest mistakes people make when trying this look