Looking stylish doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few clever tricks up your sleeve, anyone can elevate their fashion game without breaking the bank.
These styling hacks can help transform your wardrobe and boost your confidence when putting together outfits.
The right styling tricks can make your existing clothes look more expensive and help you get more mileage out of pieces you already own. From using household items to fix fashion emergencies to clever ways to reinvent your wardrobe staples, fashion hacks are a fashionista’s secret weapon.
The savvy Australian shopper knows that creating a stunning wardrobe isn’t about spending hundreds of dollars on trendy items. Instead, it’s about making smart choices and knowing how to maximise what you’ve got.
These ten styling hacks will change how you approach getting dressed each morning and help you navigate the fashion world with ease and confidence.
Mastering the Basics
Getting your fashion game right starts with understanding a few key principles.
These fundamental skills can transform even the simplest outfits into standout looks without breaking the bank.
Understanding Colour Combinations
Knowing how colours work together is essential for any fashion-forward person. The colour wheel is a fashionista’s best mate – complementary colours (opposite on the wheel) create bold looks, while analogous colours (next to each other) offer harmony.
Neutrals like black, white, navy, and beige work with everything and form the backbone of a versatile wardrobe.
For beginners, the 60-30-10 rule is brilliant: 60% dominant colour, 30% secondary colour, and 10% accent colour.
Skin tone matters too! Warm skin tones shine with earthy colours like oranges and yellows, while cool skin tones look ripper with blues and purples.
Not sure what suits you? Check your veins – greenish veins suggest warm undertones, bluish veins indicate cool undertones.
The Art of Layering
Layering is a game-changer for creating depth and interest in outfits.
The trick is to start with thinner fabrics closest to the body and gradually add heavier pieces.
A simple singlet under a button-up topped with a jumper or blazer creates dimension without bulk.
Playing with lengths adds visual interest – try a longer shirt under a cropped jumper or jacket.
This technique works a treat for transitional weather when temperatures change throughout the day.
Texture mixing elevates basic outfits instantly.
Pair smooth silk with chunky knits or sleek leather with soft cotton for contrast that catches the eye.
Remember proportion is key – balance oversized pieces with fitted ones to avoid looking swamped in fabric.
For Aussie weather, lightweight cotton and linen layers work brilliantly for our warm climate while still allowing for style flexibility when those cool changes blow through.
Accessorising Like a Pro
The right accessories can transform even the most basic outfit into something spectacular. They add personality and flair to your everyday look without breaking the bank.
Choosing the Right Jewellery
Jewellery selection should complement both your outfit and skin tone. For cooler skin tones, silver and white gold pieces work beautifully, while warmer tones shine with gold and copper accessories.
Scale matters tremendously when selecting jewellery.
Petite frames often look overwhelmed by chunky pieces, while more substantial builds can carry larger statement items with ease. A good rule is to balance your jewellery with your frame.
Consider your neckline when choosing necklaces. V-necks pair wonderfully with pendant necklaces, while crew necks work better with shorter chains or statement earrings instead.
Mixing metals has become quite fashionable, but try to limit yourself to two metal tones per outfit for a cohesive look.
Some jewellers offer dual-tone pieces that make this easier to achieve.
Statement Pieces vs. Everyday Items
Statement accessories demand attention and should be the focal point of an outfit.
When wearing a bold necklace or dramatic earrings, keep other accessories minimal to avoid looking overdone.
Every fashionista needs a collection of everyday pieces that go with practically everything.
Think simple gold hoops, a delicate chain necklace, or a quality leather watch that can transition from work to weekend.
Investment accessories are worth the splurge for items worn frequently.
A classic leather handbag or quality sunglasses can elevate outfits for years to come, making them worth the higher price tag.
Statement pieces work brilliantly when wearing monochromatic or neutral outfits. A bright, bold accessory can transform a simple black dress or jeans-and-tee combo instantly.
In Australia, locally made statement pieces featuring native materials like opals or indigenous designs make for unique accessories that support local artisans.
The Power of a Good Scarf
Scarves might be the most versatile accessory in any wardrobe.
They can be worn as neck wraps, headbands, handbag accessories, or even tops with clever tying techniques.
The right scarf adds colour and texture to outfits year-round.
Lightweight cotton or silk for summer, and chunky knits for winter make scarves practical for Australia’s varied climate zones.
Learning a few basic scarf-tying techniques dramatically expands styling options. The European loop, the simple drape, and the infinity wrap are easy methods worth mastering.
Vintage shops and markets across Australia offer unique scarves at reasonable prices.
These often feature one-of-a-kind patterns that add character to even the simplest outfits.
Scarves in breathable fabrics provide sun protection for the décolletage area during Australia’s harsh summer months, making them both stylish and practical accessories for the fashion-conscious.
Shoe Game Strong
Footwear can make or break an outfit, but finding the perfect balance between style and comfort doesn’t have to be a struggle.
The right shoes can transform even the simplest outfit into something spectacular.
Heels and Comfort, Can You Have Both?
Ladies, we’ve all been there – gorgeous heels that leave feet throbbing after just an hour. But comfort and style can coexist!
Gel insoles are a game-changer, costing only about $5-10 at Chemist Warehouse. They add cushioning exactly where it’s needed most.
Block heels offer more stability than stilettos while still giving height. Many Aussie brands like Wittner and Tony Bianco now create stylish block heels that won’t kill your feet at weddings or races.
Breaking in new heels? Try wearing them with thick socks around the house first.
Another brilliant trick is using a hairdryer to gently warm tight spots before stretching them with your hands or feet.
For special occasions, shoe hacks everyone is trying include moleskin patches on blister-prone areas.
Trainers for Every Occasion
Sneakers aren’t just for the gym anymore.
White trainers pair brilliantly with everything from summer dresses to work trousers, creating that perfect smart-casual vibe that Aussies love.
Platform trainers add height without sacrificing comfort – ideal for shorter women wanting a bit of elevation.
Brands like Superga offer options ranging from $90-120.
Keep white sneakers looking fresh by cleaning them regularly with bicarb soda and water paste.
For canvas shoes, chuck them in a pillowcase and wash on gentle cycle.
Layering like a pro applies to shoes too – experiment with coloured socks peeking out from trainers for a fun pop of personality.
This works brilliantly with cropped jeans or culottes.
Waterproofing spray is essential in our unpredictable Aussie weather.
A $15 bottle from Kmart will protect trainers from surprise downpours and keep them looking newer longer.
