We all have clothes that are dressy and clothes that are beyond casual! And even though it’s great to shop for outfits, sometimes it’s easier (and cheaper) to shop for pieces of clothing instead of full-blown outfits. Pieces (jackets, shoes, earrings, purses, etc.) can instantly dress up an outfit when paired correctly with other pieces. Not sure how to create an outfit that makes you look like a fashion model? Here are a few things you can do:
Wear A Statement Blazer
What’s a statement blazer? A blazer that makes a statement! (Duh.) It can be a bold color, have a unique detail, or maybe a not-so-typical material; whatever it is, it completely transforms your outfit! Even if you’re simply wearing jeans and a t-shirt, a statement blazer can instantly take your outfit from casual to classy.
Accessorize With A Bag
A lot of people focus more on their clothing than other accessories. I get it, but with that said, your accessories are just as important as your clothes — if not more important! They can make or break an outfit. If you’re not in the mood to really dress up, you can pair your casual outfit with a stylish bag to distract from your grungier outfit. Even if you’re in the mood to get dressed up, a cute bag isn’t a bad idea!
Or, A Stylish Backpack
Who said college students are the only ones who can wear backpacks? It sure wasn’t me! Backpacks have recently been taking the fashion industry by storm and it’s because they’re quite fashionable. They’re incredibly versatile so you can buy them in any style you like and wear them regardless of how casual or dressy your outfit is. Plus, they really come in handy if you typically carry a lot of stuff in your hands all day.
Get Creative With Textures
There’s no rule that says you have to wear the same textured pieces with an outfit. You can mix it up. In fact, you should mix it up in order to add a little wow factor to your ensemble. A knit top with a lace skirt or a lace dress with silk boots will have all of your co-workers looking at you with jealousy and admiration.
Invest In Bodysuits
Tucking a plain t-shirt, a graphic tee, or even a blouse into a pair of jeans or pants can create a classy and clean look. The only problem? Not all shirts are easy to tuck in. So often a blouse looks chunky or just awkward when it’s tucked in. But, that’s where bodysuits come into play. They are made to be tucked in and they come in a ton of different styles so you can pick one that fits your personal style.
Don’t Be Afraid To Use The Power Of Makeup
Do you know the power of a bold lip? If you don’t, it’s because you haven’t experimented enough with a bold lip! That needs to change. You might not realize this but sometimes, makeup is really all you need to help dress up an outfit. You’ve seen the models. What do they all have in common? Their outfits are usually very simple and basic. Their makeup, however, is on point!
Wrap A Belt Around Your Waist
Do you have a blouse or dress that’s a little too baggy? Use a stylish belt to show off your trim waist while also accentuating your curves. Just makes you’re using a belt that doesn’t ruin your outfit. Not all belts are created equally, some are downright imperfect. It’s important to find a belt that’s both stylish and bold, without being too distracting.
Don’t Forget Statement Heels
Similar to statement blazers, statement heels can easily class up an outfit! You don’t have to reserve your dressy heels for Friday or Saturday nights, you can wear them to work with the right outfit. Just make sure to tone down the rest of your outfit, if your shoes are on the dressier side.
Add Pops Of Color
Regardless of the season, a little pop of color is a must for those trying to dress up an outfit. If you’re wearing an all-black outfit, a colorful shoe, purse, or scarf will perfectly complement your look while helping you look stylish. Plus, it can be fun to experiment with colors. Especially if you’re someone who usually sticks to wearing the same color all the time. Don’t be afraid to be a little creative!
Focus On Proportions
Sometimes, people get a little too carried away when they’re trying to look stylish. Instead of focusing on the proportions of their outfits, they just piece items together for no reason at all. If you’re wearing an outfit with a lot of elements (layers on layers, dramatic textures, bedazzling, etc.) you don’t need to make matters more dramatic with loud accessories.
Here’s a good rule of thumb: If your outfit is sleek, chunky/bigger accessories might work. If your outfit is bold, minimal and soft jewelry will do the trick.