You know those outfits you see on social media that just look so together?
Often, the impact comes down to the extra details. The flash of an unexpected shoe, or the way a look is layered.
Most of us have the pieces in our closet — we just need ideas on how to wear them in an elevated way.
Small, considered shifts in how you piece together a look have the power to lift your entire style game, without having to do much at all.
Here are six easy styling hacks I deploy daily.
Watch: OK, but is the 'going out top' dead? Our fashion experts weigh in. Post continues below.
Style upgrade 1: Add a "third piece".
Here's a simple outfit equation to remember: Your top + your bottoms + a "third piece" for interest.
A knit thrown around your shoulders, a shirt tied around your waist, or a belt cinched over your blazer all fall into the category of a third piece.
These are the extra elements that take a boring outfit to a place that looks styled and intentional.
British stylist and content creator @_shelleyloves shows how to add a third piece. Images: Instagram/@_shelleyloves.
Remember, it's ok if they feel a bit redundant — these pieces are not there for strictly practical reasons; their purpose is to elevate the whole 'fit.
Try it tomorrow and watch the compliments roll in.
Style upgrade 2: Use the Wrong "Blank" Theory.
When viral LA stylist Allison Bornstein coined the "Wrong Shoe Theory", everything changed.
She essentially proposed that great outfits come down to contrast, and wearing a shoe that would traditionally clash with your look, rather than matching it, can add an eye-catching twist.
How influencers are styling the "wrong bag" into their looks. Images: Instagram/@boho_addict; @pollyvsayer; @nerii_xx
The concept has since expanded to the wrong bag, wrong jacket, and so-forth. So next time you're getting ready, think about the accessory or item that can offset your outfit.
It could be as simple as choosing a white heel rather than a classic black one, or opting for a bright, textured handbag when you'd normally default to a streamlined tote.
It's about giving yourself permission to take more risks with your styling — and reaping the benefits.
Style upgrade 3: Update your pant silhouette.
I cannot overstate how much changing the shape of your pants will transform your entire wardrobe. Suddenly your shirts and tees have a new lease of life, and everything you wear looks more modern.
Don't be stuck in the past for fear of a new silhouette that might be "unflattering"; that's just holding your style back.
If you're not on board with barrel jeans because you're concerned they'll add volume to your hips or thighs, experiment with different cuts to find the one that suits your body — I promise you'll be pleasantly surprised once you do.
When I finally found the shape of white barrel jeans that worked with my lower half, the outfit possibilities increased exponentially. Now, I can't live without them.
The right pants can elevate your whole wardrobe. Images: Supplied/Tamara Holland; Instagram/@emeliamorrisstylist.
Style upgrade 4: Incorporate on-trend accents.
I recently wrote about the rise of lace cami tops and how all the cool girls are styling them into their looks as a way to get creative with layering.
The lesson we can take from this growing trend is how easy it is to dial up your outfits with a strategic accent piece that feels of-the-moment.
The same goes for a printed scarf tied around your waist or bag handle.
Two ways with a hint of lace. Images: Instagram/@shopwithfifi; @_tamaradavis_.
You don't have to wear the trends from head to toe for your outfit to pack that street style punch; it's the subtle ways you incorporate them that read as stylish.
Style upgrade 5: Layer a white tee or tank underneath.
This is a trick I learnt from an editor I used to work under in my magazine days.
Every other day, she would wear a sweater with a peek of white around her collar, showcasing the top of a basic white tee.
It's a foolproof way to make your layers like cardigans and knits look chicer, with a very low styling barrier. We all have a plain tank or t-shirt in our closet. Plus, it has the bonus effect of bouncing light onto your face.
British broadcaster and influencer Polly Sayer swears by this trick. Images: Instagram/@pollyvsayer.
Style upgrade 6: Sets are a shortcut to looking polished.
Rather than buying separates, invest in a matching set — it's an instant polished look without the effort.
Co-ords have come a long way since we were first introduced to the idea; you can find one for every season and occasion.
But for the summer ahead, the most useful combinations are denim sets and silky collared shirts with matching trousers.
One silky set, endless possibilities… Content creator Lois Sterling shows how she styles her Toteme silk shirt and pants. Image: Instagram/@_loissterling.
From there, it's just about adding accessories to either play into the casual factor or elevate them for evening.
And of course, you can divide up the pieces and wear them as stylish separates, too.
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Feature image: Supplied.
