When we’re all stuck at home and in need of a change, we might feel stuck. We might be thinking that there’s no way to change up our looks with an old wardrobe, or maybe we might feel like we have run out of ideas for makeup.
However, what you may not know is that there are still endless possibilities, even if you haven’t gone shopping for the hottest new outfit. There are several tips and tricks that will help you freshen up a style — whether it’s finding different ways to show skin or finding another use for a button-up shirt — and we have got them all listed for you right here!
1. Strategically show skin
There are so many different, strategic ways to show skin, you might not even realize. A good way to think about it: choose one part of skin you want to show and keep the rest under wraps. Want to bare your shoulders? Then cover your arms. Want to show some cleavage? Then cover your legs. Makes it more interesting!
2. White button-downs
White button-downs are always a good idea. They can give an outfit a completely different look, whether you’re wearing blue jeans or a colorful pencil skirt.
3. Bright accessories
Adding a pop of color is a great idea. This works especially if you’re wearing a neutral outfit. Spice up an all-black or all-white outfit with a bright pink purse or a bright yellow headband.
4. Hem your pants
A common mistake is that pants are not the appropriate length for the shoes that are being worn with them. Hem your pants so that they’re just touching the tops of your shoes.
5. Go hands-free
For some reason, we always think we need to be holding a clutch… But that’s not the case! Try something with a long chain or strap and have it hang off your shoulder or across your body for a different look.
6. Find the perfect stretch
There is a method to the madness, believe it or not. A soft, form-fitting tee will need 95% cotton, 5% Lycra spandex. Jeans need at least 2% Lycra.
7. When in doubt, use a scarf
It’s always easy to throw on a scarf, so why not? Carry one with you in your bag so you can elevate a simple t-shirt in a matter of seconds.
8. Keep material in mind
Keep the material in mind when shopping. Is it something that is going to last after a few washes? Are you willing to take it to the dry cleaners? If the answer is no, then it’s best not to splurge.
9. Know your body shape
Once you become acquainted with your body shape, you can make clothing decisions based off of that. For instance, if you know you are petite, stay away from dresses that are tall in length.
10. Lists!
Make a list of your 10 favorite things in your closet and then keep that in mind when shopping. It’ll help you to remember what you should stick to, and it will also help you think about what will go well with those pieces.
11. Prepare
If you’re shopping for something specific, like a party dress, bring what you would want to wear with that dress to the fitting room. Feel free to bring your Spanx, lipstick, hair accessories, and anything else you’d need to get the full effect.
12. Size down in denim
If you’re unsure about what size to get in jeans, size down. This is because jeans usually stretch out, but an unintentional baggy jean can look strange.
13. Edit, edit, edit
And by that, we mean edit your closet. When it’s cluttered, it’s hard to sift through and think clearly. Your clothes need breathing room, too!
14. Check the mirror
And we mean check every angle. See how you look from the back, the side… You get it. Every angle matters!
15. Layer necklaces
Sure, less is more but sometimes… More is more. Layer as many necklaces as you want to switch up the vibe of the outfit. Try layering a delicate necklace with a chunky, edgy necklace for an interesting mix.
16. Check the inside
The lining of a piece of clothing can actually tell a lot about its quality.
17. Stay open-minded
When you think something isn’t your style, take it into the dressing room and try it on anyway! A lot of times, you’ll end up pleasantly surprised.
18. Stay loyal
If there’s a certain cut, fit, or style that you love from one season, chances are you’ll see something similar the next. Stay loyal to it if it works for you!
19. Nude pumps
Nude pumps are a safe bet, especially if you are feeling unsure. If the shade is close to your skin tone, then they will go with pretty much everything. And the “pumps” portion will make your legs look nice and lengthy.
20. White needs light
White clothing can tend to look more see-through in the light. For this reason, it is important to test it out in light before going out. Make sure it’s all clear and ready to go first!
21. Stripes
Stripes are a forever classic. They are something that will fortunately never go out of style, so feel free to load up on them.
22. Fix your buttons
Buttons can sometimes be the one and only factor that’s making your clothing look cheap. Make sure you have expensive-looking hardware and feel free to swap them out for something that will elevate the look.
23. Coats are just as important
A lot of times, coats are the only thing people will see. What’s the point of wearing a gorgeous dress if it’s covered up by something not-so-gorgeous? Spring for a stylish coat too.
24. Leopard is a staple
You might be thinking, “How is leopard a staple? It’s so loud!” And that’s exactly the point. It’s good to have a standout print in your closet, and leopard is something that will never go out of style.
25. Don’t be afraid to mix your patterns
It might feel like the opposite of what you should do, but if you do it right, it is actually such a statement.
26. Embrace color
Color is such a fun thing to explore. See which colors you respond to emotionally — which ones feel like you. Try pairing two colors that are similar — like red and pink — for a bold color block moment.
27. Yes to a statement
If you’re wearing a killer dress, spring for the earrings that just take it to the next level. Leave everything else out. That stellar accent is all you need.
28. Check your vintage
Vintage pieces age differently. Those bright overalls from the 80s might not hit the same way today. But a great idea is to maybe make changes. Ask friends for advice and then decide if it’d be worth it to bring back the piece in a different way.
29. Go for the sale…If you actually love it
It’s great that the shirt is “only $49.99,” but that can’t be the only reason why you’re buying it. At the end of the day, it’s still 50 bucks. Buy it because you love it and because it might be hard to find again… Not just for the sale.
30. Try a thicker belt
It might not be your first instinct, but a thicker waistband is actually a great way to accentuate your waist and show off your curves. Also a great way to freshen up a not-so-new outfit!
31. Fresh overwear
We should all have a go-to blazer for more formal occasions, but there are also other layers we should have on hand to freshen up our style, like leather jackets or denim jackets.
32. Menswear for the win
Don’t be scared of menswear. Rock that pantsuit like the bad ass you are! Put your own feminim twist on it with a bold lip and killer heels.
33. Invest in a good tailor
Find a tailor who knows you and understands your body shape and you will never look back. Getting clothes tailored perfectly to you totally elevates them to the next level.
34. Tweaks and twists
Try looking for a twist on a classic. One little tweak can change it from a staple to a statement.
35. Yes, you need a t-shirt bra
Try not to skimp on one. T-shirts are so thin and unforgiving, you’ll need a good bra that holds you in place and makes you feel confident in something so light.
36. Surprise!
Try adding an element of surprise, whether it’s tailored pants with a decorative bra, brightly colored over-the-knee boots with a neutral dress, or a formal blouse with ripped jeans.
37. Re-design your jewelry
If your jewelry is broken or old but you don’t want to throw it out, try using it in different ways. Add that pin to a purse, turn that ring into a necklace, or add those earrings to your shoes as decoration.
38. Spend on accessories
An interesting bag or shoes can really elevate a look more than you think. If the extras are popping, you can relax about the rest of your look a little more.
39. Have an emergency kit
Double-stick tape, thread, a needle, a makeup sponge, safety pins, a lint brush, buttons, Tide-To-Go… These are all things you will probably need in a fashion emergency at some point, so definitely have them on hand.
40. Pair loose with tight
You can try doing tight with tight or baggy with baggy, but the real sweet spot is a mix of the two. That way you have a relaxed fit but also a flattering fit. Try playing around with the perfect proportion.
41. Spice up your LBD
Make the little black dress a little more interesting, whether that’s with a bright pair of shoes, a stylish jacket or fun tights.
42. Prepare for an upgrade
You want to be comfortable when flying, but you also want to be ready for a potential upgrade, so throw on this effortlessly cool and classy yet casual outfit: black pants, leather jacket, t-shirt and a scarf. It’s foolproof.
43. Studs, always
Studs are a great investment because they actually go with everything.
44. Important pant check
Before buying a pair of pants, make sure to check the space between the crotch and the waist. You don’t want it to be too tight or too baggy, and it’s a hard thing to tailor.
45. Cashmere quality test
Everyone loves cashmere. It’s so soft! But you want to make sure the quality of it meets your standards: the thicker the knit, the more cashmere there is. Also, stretch the body of the sweater to see if it snaps back — if it does, it’s a higher-quality cashmere. It’s also usually a superior weave if it is made in Scotland or Italy.
46. Take a picture
Create a lookbook that’s made up of your own looks by snapping a quick picture of your outfit whenever you like it or get compliments. By doing this, you’ll have inspiration to refer to when you’re trying to figure out what to wear.
47. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it
If you find something you love — like a t-shirt — buy several of them. If you know it works great for you, why not have backup pairs? No shame.
48. D’Orsay pumps
This type of heel is always a good call because it’s very flattering. You can always count on it to slim down a thick heel.
49. Don’t dress for your age
Instead, dress for your body. Just because you hit a certain age doesn’t mean you can’t wear certain things anymore. If you’ve got killer legs, wear a short dress. If you’ve got great shoulders, leave them bare. Don’t start shying away from colors.
50. Try a new haircut
Changing your hair is one of the easiest way to freshen things up and feel like a brand-new person. If you have long hair, try a bob. If you’re already in bob territory, try a pixie. It grows back, so why not!
51. Dye your hair
Hair dye is another great way to feel like a whole new person. If you’re blonde, try going brunette or even blonder than before. Or, you can try dip-dying the ends of your hair a fun color like pink or purple!
52. Accessorize your hair
We’ve been talking about shoes, purses and jewelry, but hair accessories can take your look a long way too. Try an oversized headband, a patterned scrunchie, or even the aformentioned scarf in your purse and tie it around your head!
53. Skincare
Skincare is an investment that is truly worth it. When your skin is shiny and glowing, it can make a look as simple as jeans and a t-shirt stand out. Makeup also looks better on a prepped face.
54. Try a bronzey glow
If you’ve never experimented with a faux tan, that can be another great way to freshen things up. You can use a simple moisturizer that tints your skin a little bit darker over time with each use. It’ll leave you feeling like you just came back from a tropical vacation and boost your confidence!
55. Find your lipstick shade
Explore different lipstick shades and pick your favorite go-to for every season. Maybe a dark plum for winter, a soft pink for spring, a coral for summer, and a classic red for fall. A bold lip can make an outfit!
56. Manicure time
A nice manicure can make you feel like a brand-new person too, even if you do it yourself (as opposed to spending money on one at a spa). Go for a classic neutral color that will match everything or maybe step out of your comfort zone and try a bright pattern or matte color.
57. Make sure you get the right size bra
Wearing a bra that doesn’t fit right might be the worst feeling ever. If it’s too big, it’ll be sliding off and making your shirt look funny, and if it’s too small, you’ll feel really uncomfortable. If you’re unsure, ask a professional to measure you at a lingerie store!
58. Don’t be too matchy matchy
You might think you have to wear the matching patterned shirt and pant set, but that’s not necessarily the case. Try switching it up and mix patterns and/or colors.
59. Develop your own signature style
If baggy shirts are your thing, own it. If pumps are your thing, own it. If mixing fancy dresses with casual jackets is your thing, own it. It’s what makes you, you!
60. Suit your skin tone
If you have fair skin or a cool complexion, colors like black, white, grey, silver and blue would work well. If your skin is warm, try brown, red, yellow, gold and olive.
61. Always have a fitted white and/or black shirt on hand
We can guarantee it will come in handy at some point. It goes with pretty much everything, promise!
62. Pre-choose outfits
When you know you have a busy morning coming up, try laying out your outfit in advance. That way you still have an outfit that’s thought-out and put-together, but you’re not making big decisions while still half-asleep.
63. Learn to layer
Layering is crucial because it gives you so many more options. Try layering a flannel over a plain t-shirt, and then a leather or denim jacket over the flannel. Then you can play with different looks all day and it really transforms the look.
64. Be comfortable
You want to look fresh, put-together and stylish, but it is also important to feel comfortable. If you don’t, you might not come off as confident and let’s be honest, that’s really important.
65. Be confident
…Which leads us to our final tip: be confident! A really good outfit doesn’t matter as much if the person’s personality and energy doesn’t match it. Conversely, sweatpants can look amazing if you rock them with confidence. Just be yourself and be comfortable and then you can make anything work.
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