The phrase “elevated” is one we hear bandied about on shows like Queer Eye, Next in Fashion, and even Drag Race, but do we know what it means in terms of fashion? Elevating a look or style means finding ways to do more with what you have than you usually do. Elevation is an art form that separates the fashion-savvy from the fashion-challenged more than anything else.
The key to elevating a look or your whole personal style is not how much money you spend. You could have access to the top brands but need help figuring out what to do with their garments and wind up looking like a hot mess. Alternatively, you could have access to budget brands only and look fresh and chic every time. womens designer dresses are beautiful on their own, but they are elevated by a wearer who knows how to wear them. In this article, we’ll look at some of the easiest ways to elevate any outfit you put together and always look like you have that little something extra.
1. Know your style
Knowing your style is the most essential part of putting together an elevated outfit. If you don’t know what you like or what works for you, your looks will be a mish-mash of different influences and trends. Nothing will look cohesive, nothing will look polished, and nothing will look purposeful or coordinated. We’re not telling you to trade in various items for a bunch of sweater sets. You have to understand your preferences and know that you like something for yourself before you purchase it, rather than buying it because it’s on trend.
2. Find a reliable tailor
Most people are not a straight off-the-rack size. You might be a size 10 in general, but you rarely pick up a piece of off-the-rack clothing that fits like it was made for you. This is where tailors come in! You can take those pants you love that fit perfectly everywhere except at the gaping waist or that dress that sits at just the wrong point below or above your knee to a good tailor and have the piece altered to look right on your body. Everybody is shaped differently, so everybody can’t possibly be “the standard shape” that clothing is cut to. If your garments are tailored to your shape rather than just the off-the-rack fit, your outfits will always be flawlessly fitted.
3. Learn to look after your clothes
To elevate your outfits, we must know how to care for your garments. Note the care instructions on the label (dry clean only, no hot iron, cold wash only, etc.) and stick to them every time you launder your clothing. Garments will last and retain their shape and color longer this way. Caring for your clothes also means care in their presentation. If the garment needs ironing, iron it before you put it on; never go out looking messy and rumpled if the look calls for smooth garments. Learning to fix small imperfections and holes in your attire can save you a lot of money and keep you looking sharp. Have a few basic needles and thread colors on hand and catch holes before they get too big. Walking around with holes in your clothes is the opposite of elevated!
4. Have basics on hand
Elevated looks always incorporate some essential items. A great example of a basic that can help elevate an outfit is a plain white, well-fitted t-shirt. Wearing this underneath an open boyfriend button-down rather than just wearing the shirt closed can add interest to the look. Another good example is a classic pair of blue jeans. Wear these rather than jeggings; your look will have a more contemporary edge. Good basics to have on hand are things like:
- Plain, well-fitted tees in neutral colors
- Plain, well-fitted tank tops in neutral colors
- Classic fit jeans in colors that suit your taste
These items will go a long way to making your wardrobe more versatile and add a little interest to outfits that will put them in the “elevated” category.
5. Invest in quality, not trends
Trends are fun, but they only last for a while. If you’re going to buy a more expensive piece, avoid buying something that is on trend; instead, invest in a quality piece that speaks to your personal style. Your outfits will always stand out from the crowd if they are based on your personal preferences. Spending money on items that will no longer be “wearable” a few months from now for the sake of a trend is no match for buying a piece that will last a lifetime if you love it and look after it well.
If you want to elevate your looks, these are some of the simplest ways to do it. Take your time when building a wardrobe and putting outfits together, and you’ll always look that little bit extra special.