Looking like a million bucks without actually spending it – isn’t that every girl’s dream? And while we all watch out for sales with hawk-eyed keenness, it isn’t always possible to only buy stuff when there are mega discounts on. But don’t worry, we give you 14 amazing tips to make that that dream come true! Yes, it’s totally possible to make your outfits look more expensive without robbing a bank!
1. The Right Bra!
No matter how much you spend on a gorgeous dress, it’ll end up looking like crap (and like you’ve not really made an effort to buy the perfect one) if you pair it with the wrong type of bra. Make sure you check the mirror for any weird lines and change your bra accordingly.
POPxo Recommends: Penny lbb Underwired Multiway Level 1 Push-up Bra (Rs 1,195)
2. Loop or No Loop?
It’s quite simple – if you’re wearing pants that have belt loops, wear a belt. If you don’t want to wear a belt, don’t wear pants with belt loops. Alternatively, of course, you could just get the loops removed! (Remember, this applies to skirts too!)
POPxo Recommends: Awning Striped Straight-Leg Trousers (Rs 939)
3. The Right Size
You can make a skirt you bought from a sale look better than a designer piece if only it fits you perfectly! Of course that doesn’t always happen automatically, so don’t be lazy about it. Go to your local tailor and get it altered to fit right, even if it’s only to take in half an inch.
POPxo Recommends: Oliv Coral Skirt (Rs 1,499)
4. The Shoe Special
Buying good shoes is not enough, you need to maintain them too! Opt for patent leather if you don’t want to spend too much time cleaning them as they are pretty-low maintenance. But remember that patent leather scuffs easily, so you need to be careful while wearing them and wipe them down every time you wear them. A scratch or two doesn’t look too tacky, but dust and dirt settling in the cracks and taking away the shine will make your shoes – and consequently your whole outfit – look pretty shabby.
POPxo Recommends: Follie Women Green Heels (Rs 1,299)
5. Avoid Iron Deficiency!
One of the most effective ways to make your outfit look expensive is to make sure your clothes are ironed properly. No matter where you’re headed, creases are always a downer. Even a simple white shirt for Rs 300 looks super-elegant when crisply ironed.
POPxo Recommends: Usha Garment Steamer Purple (Rs 2,868)
6. Makeup Magic
Makeup makes a huge difference in the way people perceive you – it makes you look more “finished” and better put together. It’s a bit unfortunate but so true! Opt for a “no makeup” makeup look to look effortlessly gorgeous every single day, it’ll be worth it! And if that’s too much trouble, check out our 5-minute makeup guide! Nails are something that often get ignored but they really really shouldn’t – 2 coats of a nude shade can change your life.
POPxo Recommends: Lakme Absolute Combo Set (Rs 1,199)
7. Hair In Shape
The most inexpensive way to look super-elegant and “expensively” put together would be to just make sure your hair is doing exactly what you want it to. We know, it’s easier said than done, but investing in good styling tools and products is essential. You won’t regret it!
POPxo Recommends: A trip to your hairstylist and reading up on these amazing hairstyling hacks! And don’t forget to watch the POPxo video on giving yourself a salon-style blow-dry at home.
8. Investing Right
While some things you can save on, there are some things that you must splurge on as well! We advise you to put your money where you’ll get the maximum worth – and that is in jackets! They could be lightweight or formal, but the perfect fit will make for a buy that you will cherish for years to come.
POPxo Recommends: Short Crepe Jacket (Rs 3,990)
9. Less Metal On Your Bags!
Plenty of not-too-heavy-on-the-pocket bags look super-fancy and elegant – and there is no way to tell that this is a budget buy. But be sure to ditch the bags that are heavy on metal closures and links – if the bag is cheap, the metal hangings will start to discolour pretty soon and will be the first thing that makes your overall look feel a bit shabby.
POPxo Recommends: Koovs Large Side Wing Handbag (Rs 1,895)
10. Be Picky About Your Fabrics
Know your fabrics when you go shopping! And definitely check the label for the material. Synthetic fabrics are the first to die – pick up something in linen, cotton or silk instead! They have great fall, looks super-classy and you can wear them pretty much in any kind of weather. (Of course, if you’re wearing silk in the summer months, air-conditioning is essential!)
POPxo Recommends: Kira Green Solid Tunic (Rs 1,299)
11. In Black We Trust
Whenever in doubt, fall back on black! It’ll never let you down and it’s a colour that can never look bad even in the harshest of lights.
POPxo Recommends: Ribbed Knit Trapeze Dress (Rs 939)
12. Make A Statement With Your Sunnies!
It can be anything from a pair of aviators to wayfarers, provided they look great on you and suit your face! They’ll instantly up your fashion quotient.
POPxo Recommends: GILES AT KOOVS Polka Crystal Print Sunglasses (Rs 995)
13. Accessorize Right
Make sure to add at least one striking accessory to your outfit. It could be a plain silk scarf, an oversized watch or even a simple pair of stud earrings. There are just so many options to choose from, so don’t go making excuses!
POPxo Recommends: Classic Knit Scarf (Rs 539)
14. Head High, Gorgeous!
Walk with confidence and the rest will follow! Believe in yourself and feel comfortable – it works like a charm!
MUST-READ: How to Be a Budget Fashionista (And Yet Not Look Like One!)
MUST-READ: #StyleEssentials: 20 Things Every 20-Something Girl Should Own!
