Life doesn’t always give us the luxury of time, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look polished and ready to face the day with a few easy fixes you can accomplish in less than 10 minutes, and even whilst on the go. Here’s our guide on how to always look put-together, no matter what.
Smooth Your Hair with a Serum or Oil
If your hair is looking wild or a little dull, a tiny bit of serum or hair oil can work wonders if you rub a drop or two between your palms and smooth it over the ends or flyaways. It’s an instant fix for frizz and gives your hair that sleek, shiny finish we all love—plus, it takes barely any time.
Choose a Monochrome Outfit
Are you always overthinking your outfit because you’re in a rush? If so, just go for one colour or shades from the same palette, like a simple black jumper paired with matching trousers or even a beige top with tan bottoms that can make you look effortlessly chic.
The beauty of monochrome dressing is that it creates a cohesive, stylish look without requiring much thought.
Swipe on Red Lipstick
There’s a reason red lipstick is a classic—it’s transformative because a bold red lip can take you from “just rolled out of bed” to “confident and ready for anything” in moments, instantly brightening your face. It also makes your teeth look whiter (provided you don’t get any lipstick on them) and gives the impression that you’ve spent more time on your look than you actually have.
Use Dry Shampoo to Refresh Hair
For the best results using dry shampoo, spray it on, let it sit for a minute, then massage it in with your fingertips and brush through. Not only will your hair look cleaner, but it’ll also smell nice, which is always a bonus, and you can keep one handy in your bag or bathroom for emergencies.
Accessorise with Statement Jewellery
The beauty of statement jewellery is that it draws the eye and makes your overall look more interesting, and it’s furthermore a great way to show off your personality, so have fun with it and don’t be afraid to go bold. A bold necklace, a pair of oversized earrings, or even a stack of bangles can make you look like you’ve put some thought into it.
Roll Up Your Sleeves
There’s something effortlessly cool about rolled-up sleeves, isn’t there? Whether it’s on a button-down shirt or a cosy jumper, this little styling trick can give your outfit a laid-back but chic vibe in seconds, meaning it’s perfect for when you want to strike a balance between casual and polished.
Slip on a Pair of Heeled Boots
A good pair of heeled boots can be all you need; they add height, elongate your legs, and make even the most casual jeans look intentional and stylish. They’re practical too, especially for those cobbled streets, resulting in a mix of style and comfort that’s perfect for busy days.
Use a Brow Gel
Never underestimate the power of well-groomed brows. A quick swipe of tinted brow gel can frame your face, a small detail that makes a big impact, giving the impression that you’ve spent time on your makeup—even if you haven’t—and it’s easy to use and mess-free.
Tuck in Your Shirt
Remember in school when you were always told to tuck in your shirt and straighten your tie? It’s amazing what a simple tuck can do for your outfit in making it look neater, but certain tucks like the French tuck can also be more of a fashion statement to make your outfit look more relaxed.
It gives your outfit structure and makes it look like you’ve put in more effort than you actually have.
Keep a Neat, Compact Bag
A well-chosen bag adds sophistication and keeps your essentials organised, so you’re never rummaging around for your keys or phone. Go for neutral tones like black, navy, or tan, as these will complement most outfits because it’s one of those details that people notice and appreciate, even if they can’t quite put their finger on why you look so put-together.
Add a Blazer
Nothing can really go wrong with a tailored blazer, and you can throw one over a plain outfit to look sharp and ready for anything, the ultimate quick fix for those days when you need to look smart but don’t have time to think about it. Even better: choose a shade like black or navy for versatility, or go bold with a checked or colourful style for extra personality.
Wear a Watch
A sleek leather strap or a minimalist metal design works well with almost any fashion choice. It’s a simple way to show you’ve got an eye for details—and who doesn’t want to look effortlessly organised?—while adding a new accessory.
And the best thing about wearing a watch is you can have a couple of different designs and colours to mix and match with each new outfit.
Opt for Sunglasses
Sunglasses are the ultimate style hack, especially on days when you’re running late or skipping makeup, because they instantly make you look glamorous, and the right pair can completely change the vibe of your outfit. Go for oversized frames if you want to make a statement, or stick to aviators for something more classic—either way, they’re a must-have accessory that adds instant polish.
Polish Your Shoes
Scuffed shoes can ruin an otherwise perfect outfit, so take a moment to give them a quick polish. A few swipes with a cloth or brush can make a world of difference, giving your footwear a fresh, clean look, and showing that you pay attention to the little things.
Belt Your Outfit
Especially effective for cinching in loose dresses or giving shape to oversized coats, a belt can also serve as a statement piece, adding texture or colour to your clothes. Another bonus is that it only takes a second to add a belt, so you don’t need to waste any extra time or energy for an outfit upgrade.
Dab on Perfume
Fragrance is the ultimate finishing touch, and a quick spritz of perfume not only makes you smell amazing but also gives you a confidence boost. Did you think that perfume wasn’t a key part of your outfit? Go for a scent that suits your style—something light and floral for daytime or warm and spicy for evening.
Roll a Scarf Around Your Neck
When choosing a neck scarf, go for a fabric and pattern that complements your outfit, because it’s one of those magical accessories that can instantly elevate your appearance. You can wrap it snugly around your neck on a chilly morning or drape it casually over your shoulders for lighter weather, so it works perfectly for any season.
Go for Minimal Makeup
When you’re short on time, less is often more, therefore, focus on the essentials: a swipe of concealer to brighten your under-eyes, a quick dab of mascara, and a hint of blush to bring colour to your cheeks. This simple routine enhances your natural beauty and makes you look refreshed and awake, even if you’re running on fumes.
Choose Structured Outerwear
To finish it all off, a good coat or jacket can make all the difference, and in particular, structured outerwear, like a trench coat or tailored wool coat, gives your outfit a sense of purpose and polish. Even if you’re wearing something casual underneath, the right coat pulls everything together.