Dressing Better For Less: A Cheapskate’s Style Hacks Guide

With the price of basic necessities continuously rising, shopping for clothes and accessories may not be on your list of priorities right now. However, as fashion designer Tom Ford once said, dressing well is a form of good manners, and there are a lot of cheap (and even free) ways to take your outfits to the next level. 

In fact, you don’t need to spend a ton to look good. Here are some fashion hacks to help you dress better for less:

Put on a belt for a polished look

You can add a little polish to your outfit by putting on a belt. Whether you’re wearing a shirt and jeans combo or a flowy dress, it’s a simple yet effective way for a more put-together look. 

Test the waters with a pop of color

Break out of your usual outfit combinations by adding a pop of color. Whether it’s a light scarf, bright shoes, or even lipstick, a little deviation from your go-to ensemble can make all the difference. 

Hide your bra strap with a paper clip

If you’re looking to wear an open-shoulder top or dress, you don’t need to head to the lingerie store to buy a strapless bra. You can simply use a paper clip to turn your bra into a racerback one in no time!

Freeze your tight shoes

If your shoes are too tight, you should try putting them in the freezer. Yes, this sounds weird, but this tip will save you from a lot of pain. Simply fill up ziplock bags with water, squeeze the air out, seal them, and place them inside your shoes within the freezer. Leave your shoes inside overnight for the best results. 

Waterproof your shoes with beeswax

In a tropical country like the Philippines, a lot of people have had to let go of their shoes because they got soaking wet. Well, you can waterproof your shoes (your canvas ones, at least) with beeswax. Simply rub beeswax on your dry canvas shoes and use a hairdryer for the wax to stick. 

These are only a few ways to tweak what items you do have on hand, and making them even better. Fashion is about self-expression, and you don’t always have to splurge to look stylish. Above all else, you should keep in mind that it’s not what you wear, but how your wear it. Also, keep in mind that you’re never really dressed without a smile, so own it!