10 genius outfit upgrades that won't cost you a single cent.

In case you've been ignoring the gloomy headlines, we're in the midst of a cost of living crisis. I know, boring! You didn't come here to read about economics. But don't scroll down just yet! We have to address the 'ol cozzie livs situation, because shopping for clothes is great and all but so is paying your rent. And being able to afford groceries.

That said, it doesn't mean the temptation isn't there to buy new things. We're constantly bombarded with micro-trends and the ever-changing "aesthetics" of the moment, and the pressure to keep up has never been greater. Thanks, internet!

Watch: How many outfits can Bazmah style with key pieces from Em's wardrobe? Post continues below.

I'm here to remind you that actually, there are plenty of ways to refresh your look and breathe some new life into your wardrobe, without depleting your bank account. It's all about getting creative with your styling. And in some cases it might involve ribbon. Stay with me here.

Lately there's been a huge surge online in trends around personalisation and customisation, and this is only going to continue in 2025 as people seek out ways to make their style feel more authentic amongst a sea of samey looks.

It's why we're seeing things like Instagram accounts dedicated to sewing and mending old clothes, and TikToks featuring upcycled thrifted finds. Not only does it make for very watchable content, it promotes a much more sustainable way of consuming, revolving around keeping fashion in the cycle of wear.

Falling in love with your wardrobe all over again because you found new ways to wear your old faves? That's extremely sustainable. Gold star for you.

Here are 10 of my tips to upgrade your look without it costing you a buck.

Add some trinkets to your bag.

Bag charms are massive right now, but you don't need a Balenciaga budget to get the look. Keyrings or chains, as well as any beaded bracelets or colourful cords you might have lying around, can give your bag that fun, maximalist effect.

Image: Instagram/@lilyallen

Image: Instagram/@_tamaradavis_

Swap your shoelaces out.

If you've been reading up on your sneaker trends, you'll know that mismatched laces are in the spotlight thanks to the collaboration between New Balance and Miu Miu. But we're also seeing brands like Alohas put forward a case for swapping laces for ribbons (yes, the pretty satin type) to contrast with sporty sneakers. Have some fun playing with coloured options and tell me it doesn't put a bit of extra pep in your step.

Image: Supplied.

Image: Instagram/@elleferguson.

Rework your necklace stack.

Almost every day someone compliments me on my necklaces, but they're never in the same configuration for long. I love to change up the layering to keep things interesting, especially when I'm wearing open-neck shirts.

Try my signature trio with options you have in your jewellery box: a tiny chain or choker, mid-length necklace and longer pendant. More is more, so don't be afraid to go for chunky gold paired with pearls or a tennis necklace.

Image: Instagram/@_tamaradavis

Belt your denim (intentionally!)

Before you come for me and tell me belts are not a new styling hack, I'm aware. But I'm not just talking about holding up your pants, here. This underrated accessory can give your outfit a total boost. I never wear my denim shorts without a black leather buckle belt — whether I'm in a white tee or lace blouse, it makes my look feel so much more considered.

Image: Instagram/@laurajadestone

Add a topper.

A very fast way to take your standard 'fit, like jeans and a tee, to a more elevated place, is to add a "topper". I think of this as the third piece, and usually opt for a cardigan or sweater around the shoulders. It's a way of adding visual interest, without committing to another solid layer.

Image: Instagram/@_tamaradavis_

Find the unexpected contrast.

There's a reason you're seeing all those influencers wear oversized t-shirts with lace maxiskirts — it strikes the right balance between carefree and considered. That's what "effortless" styling always aims to achieve. So if your look feels kinda blah, find a way to add contrast. A shoe that's a bit wrong, like a chunky sandal with a smock dress. Or a dressy top with baggy jeans.

Image: Instagram/@Jessie_bush

7. Do the half-tuck.

I can't remember the last time I wore an oversized shirt and didn't pull this trick. The half-tuck, where you slip just the left or right half of the shirt into the front of your bottoms, is my go-to when I need to look somewhat polished and somewhat undone. It's a thing.

Image: Instagram/@sincerelyjules

Whip out a headscarf.

Their versatility is unmatched. Although lots of fashion people are wearing them this season for their primary purpose, you can use silky scarves so many ways — on your wrist as part of a bracelet stack, layered over your jacket for a flash of print, wrapped around your ponytail or tied on the handle of your bag, like Rihanna did recently with her bandana scarf in New York.

Chances are you've got one lying around somewhere. I recently inherited a few beautiful vintage scarves from my grandma and I'm loving giving them a new lease of life.

Image: Instagram/@nlmarilyn

White tees under jumpers, always.

There's something that happens when you wear a white t-shirt or tank under a sweater and get that flash of clean white poking out around your collar: it makes everything look more expensive. More tasteful. It's fashion science. Try it!

Image: Instagram/@pollyvsayer

Cut your jean hems.

I stole this one from Leandra Medine Cohen, the fashion tastemaker behind The Man Repeller. She said if you have jeans sitting in your closet that you never wear because the hemline isn't quite right, cut them. What use are they going unworn? The worst that can happen is you take them to a tailor to have them properly hemmed. The best is that you get a better crop or the length you like, and actually start wearing them.

Do you have any suggestions to add? Share them in the comments below.

Feature image: Instagram/@alohas; @nlmarilyn.