Even though I work in fashion, I'm lazy when it comes to dressing. While I wish I were the kind of girl who plans her outfits a week in advance (or even the night before), I am the one who snoozes the alarm multiple times and frantically rushes to put together a presentable outfit. Instead of trying to change my stubborn ways, I follow a few tips that always keep me looking put together despite having less than 30 minutes to get ready.
If you're in the same boat in the morning, you're going to want to take notes. It took me years to figure out the tricks below, and now that I have, they've been life-changing. I no longer regret my quick outfit choices halfway through the day and can confidently pick out a look on a time crunch. Keep scrolling for your guide on how to always look put together no matter how much time you have.
1. Create Your Go-To Collection of Basics
A major factor in my morning outfit woes was that I hadn't invested in proper basics. Without the right foundational pieces, it was a struggle to build anything. Make sure you have quality tees, staple jeans, and classic flats—pieces you can always look (and feel) good in. These will be your outfit saviors.
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2. Accessories Are Key
Never underestimate the power of an accessory. No matter how simple your outfit is, if you just throw a hat or trendy handbag on, it'll elevate your outfit instantly. Trust me. It'll make it look like you put more effort into your look than you actually did.
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3. When in Doubt, Matching Sets Will Save You
I didn't know the power of a matching set till I added a few to my closet. There's no thinking involved, and whether you add accessories or go without them, it'll look good.
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4. Pay Attention to Fit
If your clothes don't fit you properly, you'll always feel a little off. There have been times when I felt like I could ignore ill-fitting trousers or jeans, but it's not possible. The more tailored to you an item is, the more put together you'll look. I suggest properly reading measurements or visiting your local tailor. When your clothes fit you perfectly, you'll reach for them more.
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5. Add a Belt
Believe it or not, I didn't really routinely wear belts till this past year. I've clearly been missing out because it's such an easy way to pull an outfit together. Even when I'm wearing a basic tee and trousers, a belt takes it up a notch. Almost always, you can add a belt to your look to make it feel chicer.
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6. Don't Be Afraid of Simplicity
I can't even remember how many times I'd be late in the morning because I had this ridiculous belief that outfits couldn't be too simple. I'd stress and add unnecessary elements to my outfit, and halfway through the day, I'd feel like a clown. Once I started accepting that sometimes it's okay for a look to be simple and that there's beauty in minimalism, it got a lot easier for me to get dressed in the morning. Moral of the story: Don't overthink your clothes.
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7. Add a Layer
Adding one layer will instantly add dimension to your look. Whether it's throwing a button-down over your tee or tying a sweater loosely around your neck, that second layer will be a game changer.
Next, This "Boring" Basic Is the Key to All of My Easy Summer Looks