Eid might be over for this year, but with Puja and the party season right around the corner, there’s no time to let your style game slip. If the end-of-the-year drought makes buying new A/W pieces a challenge, don’t fear. Here are a few low-cost ways to take your wardrobe from “bhorta” to “biriyani” in no time.Tailor timeEven the cheapest outfit can look like a million bucks if it fits like a dream, while an actual splurge can let you down if it doesn’t flatter your shape. So whether you have some discount buys or some designer outfit that you haven’t worn yet, try them on, and if they’re not an absolute perfect fit, take them to a tailor. You’ll be amazed at how much wattage a simple nip and tuck can bring.Laundry linesFading, wrinkling, shrinking, and nappy elastic...these are all signs of cheap clothes. But you can totally make that Doja piece look like DVF by taking good care of it. Follow washing instructions religiously, and really, just using some common sense, like not washing your whites with your coloured clothes, not home-washing “dry-clean only” garments, blotting stains instead of dabbing at them, etc, can make a world of difference.Work that blingIt goes without saying that accessories can really update a drab outfit. While things like a designer scarf or a good watch, or even a killer pair of shoes are all great investments, you can get away with cheaper accessories that only look expensive, if worn right. Skeptical? Even Coco Chanel used to mix rhinestones and costume jewellery with her priceless pearls for an interesting effect. The key is subtlety. Don’t go for pieces that are obviously fake, but go for discreet dupes. And when in doubt, wear a watch.Monochrome momentsWhile a wild medley of colours are super fun, they also look inexpensive. If you prefer to look more posh, go monochrome. You don’t have to be super matchy-matchy with all the shades (the slightest mistake can have you looking like a crayon), but a head-to-toe monochromatic tone looks polished and pricey. Neutral colours work best for this.
Texture teasePlaying with texture can totally rack up the points on your style game. Mixing denim and lace, or chiffon and silk can add a tactile element to your look. The good news is, there are now many inexpensive alternatives to pricey materials, fake leather being the top of the list. Fake animal prints on PU leather, used in small amounts, add a touch of luxe to your look.The grooming gameIf you’re aiming to look rich and fabulous, you have got to make sure your grooming is as good as your wardrobe. This doesn’t mean you have to hit the spa everyday; so make sure your make-up is polished (or if you prefer going pigment-free, that you stick to a solid skincare routine), your hands and feet are well cared for, and your hair under control.
At the end of the day, don’t sweat the fashion; work on the style. Think of what you wear as an expression of who you are, and stay true to your personal “brand” and that’s its own cool.
Thursday, April 25, 2024
