Welcome to the Nothing To Wear Edit. On this week's episode, Leigh Campbell is joined by the duo behind Love It Longer, Melbourne's cult pre-loved designer store. Sisters Mattia and Giulia share their secondhand shopping tips and clever ways to upgrade any outfit… without breaking the bank.
Listen to the episode below.
You know that feeling when you're dressed, but you're not really done? Maybe you threw on a tee or knit with your jeans, and a look that read in your mind as simple and effortless just feels… unfinished?
We've all been conditioned to follow the old adage: 'take one thing off before you leave the house'. But sometimes when you strip it back too far, your outfit ends up looking, well, boring.
How many outfits can we create with the staple pieces in Alix's wardrobe? Post continues below.
Rather than reaching for a flashy print or adding unnecessary layers in the pursuit of a more interesting 'fit, the duo behind Love it Longer say to focus on accessories. They're the easiest way to breathe some life back into your look.
And while 'investment pieces' have their place, your accessories don't have to cost a bomb to add that spark.
"To elevate a boring outfit, I always say [go for] a handbag… but that doesn't mean it has to be designer," the sister told Leigh Campbell.
"It doesn't need to be Chanel, Gucci or Prada. You can come in at a 'mid' price point and buy something really original."
They suggest embracing the trend for bags with eye-catching texture like woven fabrics, quilting or beading.
Shop statement bags.
Cos Quilted Mini Bag, $89.
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Arms of Eve Alice Handbag, $120.
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Adore Polly Paper Weave Large Tote Bag, $59.
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Another tip to lift your look is to add jewellery, often an afterthought when we're racing out the door.
You don't have to defer to bright, baubly pieces — quite the opposite. The most eye-catching pieces are often the most minimal, like a sculptural cuff or large gold earring. These are the pieces that will earn you compliments every time you wear them - promise.
One on-trend option is a talisman-like pendant necklace: pair one with a loose collared shirt for instant understated elegance.
Shop sculptural jewels.
Zafino Olivia Brushed Bracelet, $49.95.
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Cendre Hattie Earrings Gold, $105.
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Arms of Eve Delilah Spinner Necklace, $159.
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When it comes to shoes, the temptation might be to slide on your go-to sneakers or sandals. They've never failed you yet, right? But Leigh says suggests applying the "wrong shoe" theory instead.
If you're not across it, the theory coined by viral stylist and wardrobe consultant Allison Bornstein says a footwear style that feels like it should clash with your outfit can often be the ticket to making the whole look feel right. Think satin ballet flats with a midiskirt, or chunky thongs with suit pants.
It's one of Leigh's favourite styling tricks, especially when her looks so often revolve around wardrobe basics like jeans, shirts and blazers.
"Often I'm quite classic in my outfit but [then] I'll do my most unusual shoe," the podcast host shares.
Shop statement shoes.
Charles & Keith Satin Bow Square-Toe Slingback Pumps, $103.
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Spurr Nicola Leopard Print Flats, $80.
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Therapy Vacay Thong Sandal Bordeaux Lycra, $79.95.
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We're in an era where great statement sunglasses have never been more accessible, so add a few bold styles to your collection. Aviators can take your jeans and tee to a whole new level, while this season's oval shapes feel timeless but still striking.
Shop bold sunglasses.
Rubi Peyton Aviators Sunglasses, $20.
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Sussan Sevilla Black Sunglasses, $34.95.
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Poppy Lissiman Spruce Aviators, $160.
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