Just because your budget might be strained at the moment, it doesn’t mean you can’t look fabulous. Looking expensive and chic often has nothing to the with the actual amount of money you spend on the outfit. Style is often much more about finding gems that look much pricier than they are, and then incorporating them into the perfect outfit. Here are some tried and true tricks that will make you look like a million dollars (even though your bank account might be in a terrible state).
Make sure your clothes are neat and fit properly
This is actually the most important thing you can do for your style. Too many women buy clothes off the rack. Everyone’s body type is different, so it’s only normal that clothes bought off the rack will never fit you ideally. Admittedly, finding the perfect pieces is getting a bit easier, now that labels are actually acknowledging that designer clothes are not a realistic paragon of an average female body. Many brands now have special lines with beautiful plus size clothing or gorgeous pieces for petite women. Just as you have a trusty hairdresser, you should also find a tailor who will be there to adjust everything you buy. Your clothes should always be neatly ironed too. Avoid fabrics that crease too easily.
Keep warm and fashionable
Nothing elevates a look like the perfect outerwear. Outerwear is generally pricey. If you’re operating on a budget, resist getting a cheap coat. Instead, do the counterintuitive thing, and invest in a classic, quality one that will last you for years. Every woman should own a great biker jacket, a classic trench, and a flattering, superbly tailored longer coat. Unlike with some other pieces, you can always tell a cheap coat from an expensive one. A good coat is the first thing people see, and it will elevate any outfit.
Consider a capsule wardrobe
You don’t have to have a brimming wardrobe to look great every day. In fact, fashionistas around the world have been adopting the capsule wardrobe. It does take a bit of thought and some patience until you’ve found the right pieces. However, once it’s complete, you will know that you will always look perfectly put together, whatever combo you throw on.
Mind your accessories
Even the simplest outfit can look amazing with the right accessories. If you feel like you don’t have the edge or the confidence to pull of clashing or mismatched accessories, don’t worry. It’s okay to match your bag to your shoes. In fact, doing so will show that you put some thought into your look. Keep your shoes and bags shiny and in pristine conditions. Did you know you can clean your patent leather goods with Windex? If you love high heels, make sure you replace the tips as soon as they seem worn.
Play with colors
Playing with colors does take a bit of courage, but you should still go for it from time to time. Clashing patterns have been all the rage the past few seasons. There are really no rules, so why not try it? If you are new to wearing patterns, start out with the eternally fashionable leopard print. If you don’t feel ready to take on prints just yet, you can at least embrace color-blocking. Choose and combine pieces in several bright tones. Jewel tones are another safe bet. Alternatively, you could also try dressing in a single color from head to toe. White, off-white, and ivory can look particularly glamorous. All black is not a look everyone can pull off, but if you are one of them, go for it!
Don’t forget the most important style factor: confidence! Whatever you wear, own your outfit. Very often, the women we label as fashion icons aren’t necessarily the ones with the most beautiful outfits. They are the ones who dare to feel comfortable, whatever they’re wearing.
About the author:
Tracey Clayton is a full time mom of three girls. She’s passionate about fashion, home décor and healthy living. Her motto is: “Live the life you love, love the life you live.”
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