14 Mistakes that Make Your Outfit Look Cheap!

Ever wonder what makes your outfit look cheap and out of fashion?

You don’t have to spend a fortune to look chic and well-put together. In fact, you can invest heavily in your wardrobe, but if you’re making certain mistakes, your outfits will still end up looking cheap.

On the flip side, if you’re a savvy budget shopper, there are free and simple ways to elevate your style.

Get to know how to stop making your outfit look cheap. Let’s dive into it!

How to stop making my outfit look cheap?

1) Care

First and foremost, not taking proper care of your clothing is a surefire way to make your outfit look cheap. Pay attention to the care instructions on every piece, even if it is a steal. Washing clothes improperly can age them quickly and ruin their appearance. 

 Tips

1. Read Labels: Always check the washing instructions. Even a budget-friendly item can look luxe if cared for properly.
2. Use the Right Hangers: Invest in good-quality hangers to maintain the shape of your clothes.
3. Fold When Necessary: Folding is the best option for items prone to stretching, like sweaters.
4. Store Handbags Properly: Keep your bags stuffed and in dust bags to maintain their shape.
5. Seasonal Storage: Use garment bags for coats and dry clean them before storing to keep them fresh.

2) Quality

Mistake number two is wearing clothing that is too sheer. You could invest a lot of money in a piece, like a luxurious silk blouse, but if it looks sheer, it will make your outfit look cheap than it actually is.

Sheer blouses have been trending, especially when styled with pretty lingerie underneath. However, there’s a fine line between a stylish sheer look and an unintentionally sheer one that looks cheap. 

Tips

1. Check for Sheerness: When shopping, always check the sheerness of the fabric in natural light. If it’s too sheer, consider passing on it or finding a way to layer it appropriately.
2. Invest in Quality Leggings: Opt for thicker, high-quality leggings that provide full coverage. Brands known for their quality like Lululemon or Athleta are great options.
3. Layer Smartly: If you love sheer blouses, make sure to wear them with the right undergarments. A well-fitted cami or a stylish bralette can make all the difference.
4. Consider Alternatives: Instead of sheer chiffon blouses, look for fabrics with a similar flowy look but better opacity, like silk or satin.
5. Dress for the Occasion: Know when sheer is appropriate and when it’s not. For professional settings, aim for more opaque, polished looks.

3)Too Many Logos

When you overdo it with logos, it can come off as though you’re overly devoted to a brand, which can make your outfit look cluttered and less sophisticated. Remember, the goal is to showcase your personal style, not just the brand names you’re wearing.

Tips

1. Limit Logos: Aim for one visible logo per outfit. This keeps your look refined and avoids the billboard effect.
2. Mix and Match: Pair your logo piece with non-branded items. For example, if you’re wearing a Branded belt, opt for a simple top and jeans.
3. Subtle Logos: Choose designer items with more subtle or discreet logos. These can be more versatile and less overpowering.
4. Focus on Fit and Fabric: High-quality fabric and a good fit can make a bigger style statement than logos. Invest in well-made pieces that highlight your figure and feel luxurious.
5. Accessorize Smartly: If you have a logo bag or shoes, balance it with minimalistic jewelry and a clean, polished look.

4)Fitting

A major mistake is wearing clothing that doesn’t fit properly, and this can go both ways. Wearing excessively baggy clothing might be trendy, but it can often cheapen your look. On the other hand, clothes that are too tight can also make you look less polished.

A common example is a blouse that’s too small, especially in the bust area. Ladies, make sure your buttons lay flat and aren’t stretched to the point where they look like they’re struggling to stay closed. 

I understand that tailoring can be an extra expense not everyone can afford. I’m not one to tailor every single piece in my wardrobe either. However, if something doesn’t fit properly from the start, consider whether it’s worth the extra cost to tailor it, or if you should keep looking for a better fit elsewhere.

Tips

1. Check the Fit: Always try on clothes before buying to ensure they fit well. Pay attention to key areas like the bust, waist, and hips.
2. Avoid Baggy and Tight Clothes: Balance is key. Opt for clothes that skim your body without being too tight or too loose.
3. Look for Stretch: Fabrics with a bit of stretch can offer a more forgiving fit, especially for fitted pieces.
4. Invest in Basics: Spend a bit more on essential pieces like jeans, blazers, and dresses. These are worth tailoring to get the perfect fit.
5. DIY Tailoring: For minor adjustments, learn some basic sewing skills. Hemming pants or taking in a seam slightly can be done at home.

5) Wrinkled Clothes

Another big mistake is wearing wrinkled clothing. Don’t stress out over every single wrinkle—clothes will naturally crease as you wear them throughout the day, especially if you’re sitting in an office or wearing a linen dress in the car.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can carry a wrinkle-release spray in your purse and fix any creases once you arrive at your destination.

However, the real issue is unintentional wrinkling in areas that shouldn’t naturally crease. For example, if you buy a new blouse and can’t wait to wear it, it might have indentations and folds from being packaged.

Always steam or iron these out before wearing them. Pay special attention to areas like collars, cuffs, and fabric belts on dresses. These details make a big difference.

Tips

1. Invest in a Steamer: A good steamer is a game-changer. There are so many travel steamers that are foldable and easy to carry, plus a larger one with a big tank for home use.
2. Use Wrinkle Release Spray: Keep a small bottle of wrinkle release spray in your purse for quick fixes on the go.
3. Steam or Iron Before Wearing: Always steam or iron new clothes before wearing them, especially areas like collars, cuffs, and belts.
4. Hang Clothes Properly: Use good hangers and hang clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer to minimize wrinkles.
5. Choose Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics: For less hassle, opt for fabrics that are less prone to wrinkling, like polyester blends or knits.

6) Maintenance

Another mistake that can make your outfit look cheap is any sort of pilling or wear and tear. Take that $500 cashmere sweater, for instance—it’s not going to look like a high-end piece if it’s covered in pills. 

A fabric shaver is a must-have in anyone’s wardrobe. It works wonders on winter sweaters, coats, and even furniture like couches and chairs. Any areas with higher friction, such as the sides of your arms or sleeves, especially if you wear a crossbody bag, are more likely to pill.

Tips

1. Invest in a Fabric Shaver: This is an essential tool for removing pilling and keeping your clothes looking fresh.
2. Regular Maintenance: At the start of each season, go through your wardrobe and treat any items that need de-pilling. This keeps your clothes ready to wear and looking their best.
3. Identify High-Friction Areas: Pay extra attention to areas prone to pilling, like the sides of your arms, sleeves, and anywhere your handbag rests.
4. Dry Clean Seasonal Items: Set aside and dry clean items like coats at the start of each season to keep them in top condition.
5. Declutter: Use this time to declutter your wardrobe and get rid of items you’re no longer excited to wear. This makes space for new pieces and keeps your wardrobe fresh.

7) Shoes

Wearing shoes that are too scuffed up is another mistake that can make your outfit look cheap. This is especially common with heels. We’ve all seen that very worn-heel look, and it just doesn’t do any favors for your outfit. If you have a pair of shoes that you absolutely love but they’ve seen better days, take them to a cobbler.

Tips

1. Regular Maintenance: Keep your shoes in good condition by regularly cleaning and polishing them. A quick wipe down after each wear can prevent dirt and grime buildup.
2. Invest in a Shoe Repair Kit: For minor fixes, a shoe repair kit can come in handy. It can help with small scuffs and scratches.
3. Visit a Cobbler: For more significant wear and tear, take your shoes to a professional cobbler. They can fix scuffs, replace worn heels, and make your shoes look new again.
4. Rotate Your Shoes: Don’t wear the same pair every day. Rotating your shoes allows them to rest and reduces wear and tear.
5. Store Properly: Use shoe trees for your more expensive shoes to help them keep their shape. Store them in dust bags or boxes to protect them from dust and light damage.

8) Jeans

When it comes to jeans, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they look more expensive. First, pay attention to the zipper. Make sure the coloring is correct—avoid any weird green undertones. Also, check that the zipper is discreet when zipped up; you don’t want it to be visible.

Overall, less is more when it comes to jeans. The simpler the design, the more expensive they’ll look.

Tips

1. Check the Zipper: Ensure the zipper color matches the jeans and is not visible when zipped up. This small detail can make a big difference and is a key point for not making an outfit look cheap.
2. Avoid Excessive Whiskering: Whiskering can sometimes make your hips look wider. Opt for jeans with minimal or no whiskering for a more streamlined look.
3. Focus on Fit: The fit of your jeans is crucial. Jeans that fit well will always look more expensive. Consider getting them tailored if needed.
4. Choose Classic Styles: Classic styles like dark wash or straight-leg jeans tend to look more polished and timeless.
5. Quality Over Quantity: Invest in a few high-quality pairs rather than numerous cheaper ones. They’ll last longer and maintain their appearance better.

9)Comfort

How to be happy? Wear good outfit that is comfortable too!

A key mistake is wearing clothing that you’re not comfortable or confident in. You could be in a designer dress, but if you don’t feel like a million bucks in it, you won’t look like a million bucks either.

Another common example is wearing heels that you’re not confident walking in. That lack of confidence will be noticeable to others and can instantly cheapen your look.

Tips

1. Prioritize Comfort: Always choose clothes and shoes that you feel comfortable in. Comfort translates to confidence.
2. Test Before You Buy: Try walking around in heels or sitting in a dress before purchasing to ensure you feel at ease.
3. Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re set on wearing high heels, practice walking in them at home until you feel confident.
4. Have Backup Options: Keep a pair of stylish flats or a more comfortable outfit on hand for those days when you need it.
5. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your clothes and shoes feel. If something is pinching, rubbing, or making you feel uneasy, it’s not worth it.

10) Seams

Low-quality seams are a dead giveaway of cheap clothing that was mass-produced in a factory. This issue is particularly noticeable in areas like waist gatherings or patterns that appear uneven.

Uneven stitching or poorly finished seams can make even a pricey outfit look cheap.

Tips

1. Inspect Seams: Before buying, closely examine the seams for even stitching and proper alignment. This indicates better craftsmanship.
2. Check Waist Gatherings: Ensure any gathered fabric at the waist is evenly distributed and sewn to avoid a cheap, uneven appearance.
3. Opt for Quality Brands: Invest in brands known for their attention to detail and quality stitching. It may cost more upfront but will save you from making outfit look cheap.

11) Exposing

One common example of this is those pesky elastic loops often found on clothing from stores. These loops are meant to keep garments secure on hangers but can easily pop out and dangle, making any outfit look cheap. 

Another issue to watch for is visible tags. While it’s understandable that tags are necessary, having them peek out from your clothing can detract from your outfit. Always check for tags sticking out, especially in dresses or skirts.

Tips

1. Remove Elastic Loops: If your clothes come with those annoying elastic loops, consider removing them to maintain a cleaner look.
2. Check Tags: Always check for and tuck in tags that may be sticking out of your clothing.
3. Cut Away Security Tags: Before wearing new items, remove all security tags to avoid embarrassing mishaps.
4. Handle Sheer Fabrics Carefully: Be extra cautious with sheer fabrics, as tags and loops can be more visible through these materials.

12) Loose Threads

Always check for any loose threads on your clothing before wearing them. Sometimes you can simply snip them away and the problem is solved.

. However, if loose threads are a recurring issue, it’s a sign that the garment may not have been well-made. Also, double-check the lining underneath your clothes as loose threads can sometimes hang down from there too.

Tips

1. Inspect Before Wearing: Take a moment to inspect your clothes for loose threads and trim them with scissors if necessary.
2. Check Lining: Ensure that loose threads aren’t hanging from the lining of your garments.
3. Emergency Kit: Carry a small pair of scissors in your bag to quickly deal with any loose threads that appear during the day.

13) Undergarments

Wearing the wrong undergarments can detract from your overall look and make any outfit look cheap. Avoid showing bra straps as this can cheapen your outfit. Additionally, consider whether your garment would benefit from wearing shapewear or seamless undergarments to avoid visible panty lines (VPL), especially with lighter fabrics.

Tips

1. Avoid Visible Bra Straps: Ensure your bra straps are not visible when wearing sleeveless or off-shoulder tops.
2. Choose Appropriate Underwear: Opt for seamless or shapewear undergarments depending on the outfit’s requirements.
3. Go Nude: Nude-colored undergarments are versatile and minimize the risk of them being visible under light-colored clothing.
4. Double-Check Before Leaving: Have someone check your outfit from all angles to ensure your undergarments are not visible.

14) Cheap Belt

One thing to watch out for is wearing a cheap belt. If these belts are not high quality then it will make your outfit look cheap. 

It’s much better to remove the included belt and swap it out for your own, even if your replacement is affordable. This simple switch can significantly elevate your outfit, whether you splurge on your wardrobe or are more budget-conscious.

Tips

1. Inspect Included Belts: When a piece comes with a belt, check its quality before assuming it will enhance your outfit.
2. Consider Your Own Belt: Swap out cheap belts for ones you already own, even if they’re budget-friendly.
3. Choose Quality: Invest in a few good-quality belts that can complement various outfits, rather than relying on included belts of lower quality.
4. Enhance Your Style: By upgrading your belt, you can enhance the overall look and feel more confident in your outfit.