Whether it’s following outdated trends, wearing ill-fitting clothes, or not paying attention to the little details, it’s easy to make mistakes that can ruin your appearance. Here are 15 everyday style habits that might sabotage your look—and how to correct them.
1. Wearing the Wrong Styles For Your Shape
Just because something looks great on the mannequin doesn’t mean it will flatter your figure. Though sometimes it’s a truth we don’t want to admit, not everything will look good on our bodies. Understanding your body type and choosing clothes that highlight your best features can make you feel confident. Stripes can be one of the trickiest fashion contenders as they can create the illusion you are bigger than you are.
2. Wearing Tight or Badly Fitting Clothes
Whether it’s clothes that are too tight, loose, or just plain ill-fitting, wearing the wrong size can make you look frumpy and ruin your appearance. Not only will you feel vulnerable because your clothes are too tight, but you’ll attract the wrong kind of attention. You’ll know if your clothes don’t fit; if they don’t, tailor them for a more flattering look.
3. Clinging to Outdated and Tricky Trends
Fashion trends come and go faster than ever before. We know clothes are an investment, but it’s time for a wardrobe refresh if you’re still wearing trends that died years ago. While having a few vintage pieces is okay, wearing them head-to-toe can make you look stuck in a time warp. Try to buy timeless pieces that never go out of fashion so you’re always on trend.
4. Wearing Clothes That Need to Be Tailored
Even if you buy off-the-rack, a little tailoring can make a world of difference. Whether it’s hemming your pants, cinching the waistline of a dress, or adjusting the sleeves of a jacket – tailoring is an underappreciated tool that can elevate your outfit from “meh” to “wow.” Don’t skimp on getting your clothes tailored; your polished appearance will thank you later.
5. Wearing Too Many Accessories at Once
Accessories are fun and can elevate an outfit, but overdoing them can quickly overwhelm your look and make you appear tacky. Piling on too many necklaces, bracelets, or rings can make you look like a cluttered Christmas tree and detract from your outfit’s overall elegance. Less is more, and subtlety is essential when it comes to accessorizing.
6. Wearing Unflattering Colors or Prints
Some colors have the power to transform your outfit instantly. It’s important to choose shades that complement your skin tone. Knowing your color palette can help you avoid looking washed out or tacky. Learning what colors suit you can enhance your natural beauty and take you from an 8/10 to a 10/10.
7. Wearing Shoes That Are Scuffed
Your shoes can make or break your outfit. Though you might think those scuffed, dirty, or worn-out shoes are bohemian, they make you look sloppy. Take the time to clean and care for your shoes and ensure they’re appropriate for the occasion. If your shoes look worse for wear, it might be time to treat yourself to a new pair.
8. Wearing the Wrong Bra Size
Like scruffy shoes, wearing the wrong bra can ruin your look. A bad bra can create sagging, unwanted bumps and make your midsection look larger. You could be wearing the world’s most chic outfit, but if you’re wearing an ill-fitting bra, you won’t look put together. Get a proper bra fitting and invest in a quality bra to look your best.
9. Wearing Clothes That Are Too Casual
When it comes to everyday fashion, comfort is key; however, leaning too far into casual can make you look sloppy. Wearing sweats, oversized t-shirts, or old sneakers too often makes people think you don’t care how you look. This doesn’t mean you can’t keep it casual, but when you do, opt for well-fitting, clean clothes that show you’ve put some thought into your outfit.
10. Wearing Clothes That Are Too Trendy
Trends are fun and enticing, but wearing clothes that are too trendy can sometimes backfire. Trends change quickly, and what’s in style today might be out tomorrow. Instead of chasing every new trend, focus on building a wardrobe of classic pieces that will stand the test of time and can be easily updated with trendy accessories.
11. Wearing Clothes That Don’t Fit the Dress Code
Showing up under or overdressed for an occasion is embarrassing and can make you stand out for all the wrong reasons. Understanding dress codes is essential; if you can’t tell, always ask to avoid mixups. It’s also always better to be too dressed up than too casual.
12. Wearing Wrinkled Unironed Clothing
Showing up in wrinkled clothes is a surefire way to look sloppy. You could be wearing the world’s most expensive and stylish outfit, but none of that matters if it’s wrinkled. It sends the message that you’re lazy and don’t care about your appearance. Invest in a good steamer or iron, and take a few extra minutes to smooth out those creases before heading out the door.
13. Wearing Head-to-Toe Logos
Wearing too many logos or heavily branded items can come across as trying too hard. While a designer piece here or there can add a touch of luxury to your outfit, going overboard makes you look tacky and ruins your whole look. If you like logoed clothing and accessories, try subtly incorporating one or two pieces to create a more balanced look.
14. Wearing Piles of Layers
Layering can add depth and interest to your outfit, but it’s essential to get it right. Wearing too many layers can make your figure look bulky, while too few can leave your outfit looking flat and boring. Experiment with different textures, accessories, and outerwear to learn to layer better and take your fashion game to the next level.
15. Wearing Fabrics That Make You Sweat
No matter how great your outfit is, if you’ve been skipping hygiene and grooming or clinging to synthetic fabrics that sweat, you will ruin your entire look. Dirty hair, chipped nails, or swearing can all detract from your appearance. Wearing a great outfit is essential, but being well-groomed is just as important, if not more.