Welcome to The Blueprint, where we break down the celebrity looks we want to wear right now and build them back up, piece by piece.
It seems I’m not the only one inspired by Joanna Gaines’ effortless fashion sense, because Ellen Pompeo just stepped out wearing a pair of jeans that look like they’re straight out of the HGTV star’s closet.

On March 18, the Grey’s Anatomy actress arrived at a taping of Watch What Happens Live in New York City wearing one tried-and-true outfit formula that never goes out of style: jeans and a sweater. While Pompeo’s outfit couldn’t have been more classic, she added a trendy twist to the basic uniform by opting for a V-neck silhouette and front seam jeans — an edgier style that Gaines has been known to wear, too.
Getty
To complete her look, Pompeo accessorized with a long khaki single-breasted trench coat, pointed-toe red shoes, and a top handle bag. While I’m not fully convinced that the perfect spring outfit exists, this is pretty darn close, and I’m already planning on adding similar pieces to my wardrobe for the change in season.
Want to join me? Keep scrolling to shop closet staples inspired by Pompeo’s outfit blueprint starting at just $27.
Ellen Pompeo’s Outfit Blueprint
The Drop Frida Relaxed Fit Jeans
Amazon
Blue jeans and a T-shirt are a classic combo for a reason, but sometimes a girl just needs a little extra oomph — which is exactly where these front-seam jeans come in. Not only does their wide-leg silhouette and detailed stitching look just like Pompeo’s, but they’ve earned high praise from shoppers who highlight their “perfect amount of stretch” and “professional” yet “stylish” look in reviews. Pompeo wore hers with pointed-toe heels, but I think these would look just as good with sneakers or sandals.
Quince Mongolian Cashmere V-neck sweater
Quince
If you’re looking to add a lightweight sweater to your spring wardrobe lineup, might I suggest this option from Quince? The buzzy, direct-to-consumer brand is the name on everyone’s lips — and Jessica Alba’s back — right now, and this sweater is one of their most popular styles. It’s currently available in 11 shades, including pink, yellow, and Pompeo-worn black, and one reviewer called it the “perfect wardrobe staple.”
Everlane The Mac Coat
Everlane
I’ve been on the hunt for a lightweight trench coat to wear during an upcoming trip to Europe, and this option from Everlane more than fits the bill. Its polished single-breasted collar and chic front buttons will add a stylish touch to any outfit, and its mid-thigh-skimming length means I won’t overheat on especially warm spring days. While it comes in three wear-with-anything shades, I plan on taking a page out of Pompeo’s style book by snagging it in cornstalk.
Keep scrolling to shop more jeans, sweaters, and trench coats inspired by Ellen Pompeo’s outfit blueprint below.
Joe’s Jeans The Front Seamed High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
Anthropologie
Gap High-Rise Stride Seamed Wide-Leg Jeans
GAP
Qualfort Cotton Sweater
Amazon
Banana Republic Factory Perfectly Soft V-Neck Sweater
Banana Republic Factory
Makkrom Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Amazon
Madewell Single-Breasted Trench Coat
Madewell
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