image from Shop From The Street
Look, we all have those days (or weeks…or months) where we are busy and overworked and overtired. And when you’re feeling rundown and unmotivated, that’s when the yoga pants come out. Trust me, no one loves yoga pants more than I do, but for the office or social activities, you might want to step up your game a bit. You don’t have to have a “Clueless”-esque closet to look polished and put together. With a few simple styling hacks, you can look way more put together on the outside than you feel on the inside.
Be comfy, not sloppy
You don’t have to wear a structured suit set to look “put together.” You can still be comfortable and look stylish. The key is to making sure that your comfortable pieces are well taken care of. Don’t go out in anything you might also sleep in. You can have comfy joggers, but have a pair for sleeping, and a pair for wearing out in the world. Keep your favorite sneakers clean and don’t let your elastic waistbands stretch out. The devil is in the details.
Overestimate your timeline
No one looks put together when they’re rushing. If you know it takes you 30 minutes to get ready before you need to leave, start getting ready 45 minutes before you have to head out the door. The extra time not only helps you feel internally more put together, but you’ll even have a few minutes for finishing touches if you so choose.
Have a signature accessory look
You should have at least one pair of quality stud earrings, and one quality simple necklace. Even if they are cubic zirconias (let’s be honest, they’re all cubic zirconias), you’ll look like you put specific thought into your accessories rather than chucking on a piece of costume statement jewelry. Simple is always better when it comes to signature accessories. Find a sleek watch you love, or a simple gold bracelet you always wear. Less is more, but they make all the difference.
Invest in a structured bag
Canvas totes are cool for farmers’ markets and all, but if you really want to look put together on the fly, you’ll want to invest in a structured bag. A leather (or faux leather, if you’re veggie like me), satchel can instantly elevate your look. You see someone wearing yoga pants and carrying a canvas tote, what do you think? “Oh, she looks like she had a nice chill day at home.” But you see someone wearing yoga pants and carrying a structured bag? “Oh wow she managed to squeeze in a workout on her way to world domination.” Don’t quote me verbatim on that, but you get the idea.
Carry yourself with confidence
The best part about this styling hack is, it’s free. It’s also the most effective. No matter what you’re wearing, the way that you carry yourself speaks volumes. So chin up, shoulders back, and head out to take on the world.