Looking good isn’t about wearing the flashiest clothes; it’s about knowing how to put them together. We all make fashion mistakes now and then, but some slip-ups can take you from looking sharp to looking like you just rolled out of bed. Here are 14 style blunders that might be making you look a little sloppy, plus how to fix them.
1. Leaving Collar Stays in When You Wash or Iron Your Shirts
Collar stays are those little pieces of plastic or metal in your dress shirts that keep the collar looking crisp. If you forget to take them out before washing or ironing, they can warp or bend and make your collar look sloppy the next time you wear it. Always remember to pop them out before laundry day and put them back when you’re ready to wear the shirt again. Your collar will thank you.
2. Letting Your Socks Slide Down All Day
We’ve all been there—your socks start slipping down your ankles, and suddenly, you look like you’re wearing leg warmers. Loose, saggy socks don’t just feel annoying; they also make you look disheveled and sloppy. If this sounds like you, it’s time to treat yourself to new socks that fit snugly and stay up where they belong.
3. Pants That Are Way Too Long or Way Too Short
The length of your pants might seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference. If your pants are dragging on the floor or awkwardly hovering above your ankles, it can ruin your entire look. A general rule of thumb is that they should have a slight break at the top of your shoe—a little bend, but not so much that they’re puddling around your feet.
4. Stuffing Your Pockets Like They’re Backpacks
Overloading your pockets with keys, wallets, phones, and who-knows-what-else can totally throw off your look. Not only is this uncomfortable for you, but it also makes your pants look lumpy and throws off your silhouette. Consider using a slim wallet or even a small bag to keep your pockets sleek and your outfit looking smooth.
5. Holding On to Faded or Worn-Out Clothes
It’s tough to let go of your favorite T-shirt or jeans, but if they’re faded, stretched, or have lost their shape, it’s time to let them go. Clothes that have seen better days can make you look like you’re not putting in the effort. It might be time to swap them out for newer, fresher pieces that don’t scream “well-worn.”
6. Messing Up the Monochrome Look
Going for a monochrome outfit can be a bold move, but it can backfire if the shades don’t quite match. Different tones of the same color—especially with blacks, grays, or blues—can actually clash more than they complement. If you’re not sure, stick to one solid shade or break it up with a contrasting color to keep it intentional.
7. Rolling Up Your Sleeves Like You’re in a Hurry
There’s a right way and a wrong way to roll up your sleeves. If you’re just shoving them up your arms, it looks like you’re either in a rush or you gave up halfway through getting dressed. Take an extra minute to fold them neatly. A clean roll makes you look like you’ve got it all together—even when you’re going for a laid-back vibe.
8. Not Paying Attention to Jacket Details
A great jacket or blazer can either pull your whole outfit together or make it fall apart, and it all depends on the details. If the sleeves are too long and cover your hands, or if the shoulder seams don’t line up with your shoulders, it throws everything off. It’s a small detail, but make sure your jacket fits properly so you look sharp and tailored if you want to look your best.
9. Wearing Cargo Shorts or Pants When You Don’t Need the Pockets
Sure, cargo shorts and pants are practical, but unless you’re using those pockets, they’re just making you look bulkier. Save the cargos for hiking or casual outings where you need the storage space. As for everyday wear, go with more fitted shorts or pants that give you a streamlined look without the extra baggage.
10. Mixing Up Your Metal Accessories
Little details like your watch, belt buckle, and jewelry can make a big impact when they clash. Mixing different metals—like gold, silver, and bronze—is a huge fashion faux pas that ruins your look. Try to keep your metals consistent so your accessories all tie in nicely with each other and your overall look.
11. Wearing T-Shirts That Have Seen Better Days
A T-shirt with a stretched-out neckline or thinning fabric instantly makes you look like you didn’t bother to get dressed properly. Never underestimate the power of a crisp, well-fitted tee to elevate even the most casual outfit. When your T-shirts start to lose their shape, it’s time to swap them out for fresh ones.
12. Trying Too Hard to Match Everything
You know the guy who matches his shoes to his shirt to his hat to his belt? Don’t be that guy. Being overly matchy-matchy can make your outfit feel stiff and overthought. Instead, mix things up a bit—contrast colors, play with textures, and keep your look balanced but not too calculated.
13. Wearing Undershirts as Actual T-Shirts
It might be tempting to throw on a plain white undershirt and call it a day, but undershirts aren’t meant to be seen. They’re usually thin and not cut for style, so they end up looking flimsy when worn as regular tees. Go for a thicker, properly fitted white T-shirt that’s made to stand on its own.
14. Ignoring the Weather and Season
Wearing a wool sweater in the heat of summer or a lightweight jacket in the dead of winter doesn’t just make you uncomfortable—it also makes you look out of sync with your surroundings. Pay attention to the fabrics and colors that fit the season, and you’ll not only feel better but also look more put-together.