Shopping

50 Outfit Mistakes That Are Making You Look Bad — & What To Do Instead

Common mistakes with really simple fixes.

by Shelby Ying Hyde
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

When it comes to putting together a no-fail outfit that looks as good as it feels, the key is to zoom in on the more minute details you may have not considered before. From getting rid of visible underwear lines or wearing an ill-fitting bra, to sporting scuffed sneakers, these seemingly little mistakes can throw off an entire look. Luckily, there are a bunch of easy and quick fixes available, most of which are super affordable. Though, if you’re not yet convinced? Continue ahead for a breakdown of solutions for each problem at hand.

01

Mistake: Letting Bra Straps Peek Out From Underneath Tank Tops & T-Shirts

Solution: Clip Adjusters That Allow You To Find Your Desired Silhouette

These bra adjuster clips will work hard in your everyday wardrobe. They are are a great way to transform your undergarments, keeping your straps from being exposed. Available in a pack of 12, they can be used with a wide range of silhouettes, including but not limited to racerback and crisscross back tops.

02

Mistake: Scuffing Your Leather Goods & Not Repairing Them

Solution: A Leather Cream To Restore Your Favorite Shoes & Bags

Give your favorite accessories a little refresh with this leather cream. It has a balm-like consistency that restores, waterproofs, and protects your pieces from the unknown. The fact that it comes in a compact tin container that fits comfortably in your everyday bag is an added bonus.

03

Mistake: Sporting Wrinkly Clothes That Make You Look Disheveled

Solution: A Portable Steamer You Can Take With You Wherever You Go

Perfect for work trips or big events where a more polished look is encouraged, this portable steamer will help get rid of unsightly wrinkles with little to no effort. All you have to do is add water and wait for the handheld device to heat up. “It’s small but surprisingly powerful,” one of the 127,000 reviews wrote. “Storage is simple too. After steaming, I just empty the remaining water and put it away.”

04

Mistake: Not Protecting Your Delicates In The Wash

Solution: Mesh Laundry Bags To Keep Your Intimates Safe From Damage

Keep your delicates in pristine condition with the help of this pack of mesh laundry bags. Available in a set of seven, it offers zipped pouches in a range of sizes and shapes to fit everything from bras, underwear, stockings, and more. Choose between more than a dozen different styles on offer. “These are going to come in handy for is when traveling, because the larger capacity ones will be excellent for placing your dirty clothes in or you could also put your wet clothes in from the pool or the beach, which will save you big time when separating clothes,” a happy customer wrote.

05

Mistake: Visible Underwear Lines Leaving Little To The Imagination

Solution: Seamless Panties For A Barely-There Look

Very few things are as unsightly as visible panty lines on an otherwise chic ensemble, which is why this pack of seamless underwear is so handy. Available in a set of seven — one for everyday of the week — they have a versatile and cheeky bikini cut that most people love. What’s even better is they come in a selection of both neutral and bold shades, which means there’s something for everyone.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 16

06

Mistake: Unsightly Deodorant Marks On All-Black Outfits

Solution: Deodorant Remover Sponges That Get Rid Of Stains

Nothing ruins an outfit quite like deodorant marks, which is why this set of two stain remover sponges is so genius. Affordable and easy to use, just dampen them before wiping away any imperfections. “They remove not only deodorant stains but also if you get dust or something else on dark fabric,” one fan wrote. “They're a must!”

07

Mistake: Bulky Socks Overpowering Ankle-Baring Shoes

Solution: Low-Cut Socks That Are Barely Noticeable

These ultra low-cut liner socks are a discreet style that can be worn with ballet flats. Offered in a pack of six, they’re made from a lightweight stretchy material that hugs the foot. “They stay in place when walking and even when removing your shoe,” one shopper wrote. “They not only grip to the back of your foot they have a grip on the bottom so when walking with them without shoes you do not slip.”

  • Available sizes: 5-9 — 9-12
  • Available colors: 7 multi-packs

08

Mistake: Relying On Underwired Bras That Poke & Prod After Hours Of Wear

Solution: This Wireless Triangle Bra That Provides A Smooth Seamless Fit

If you’re in the market for more comfortable essentials, this wireless triangle bra from Calvin Klein certainly fits the bill. It has a seamless silhouette with padded cups and adjustable shoulder straps, allowing you to find your perfect fit. The pull-on fastening allows for added comfort and flexibility.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 13

09

Mistake: Not Adjusting Hems For Your Proportions

Solution: A Roll Of Hemming Tape You Can Iron On For Quick Alterations

If the hems of your pants and skirts are so long they’re dragging on the floor behind you, then this hemming tape is the perfect solution. Each pack comes with four adhesive rolls, which means you have a total of 32 yards of product to work with. All you have to do is place the tape between fabric layers and press with an iron for security.

10

Mistake: Wearing The Wrong Bra With Backless Tops & Dresses

Solution: A Strapless Sticky Bra That Is Just So Discreet

Whether you’re sporting a strapless top or a dress with an open back, this sticky bra is an absolute must for every well-dressed woman. It’s made from durable silicone material with a clasp front fastening and an adhesive back that’s gentle on sensitive skin. The best part is, it comes in a bunch of neutral colors to match your skin tone and is fully reusable, just hand wash yours after each wear.

  • Available sizes: A — G
  • Available colors: 5

11

Mistake: Sweaters With Unsightly Pilling That Makes Them Look Old

Solution: An Electric Fabric Shaver That Gives Your Knits A Second Life

Extend the life of your knitwear collection with this electric-powered fabric shaver. It has a six-leaf blade design that removes lint, fuzz, and pilling to refresh its appearance. “I liked that it’s USB rechargeable—one full charge lasted through multiple garments and it didn’t lose power halfway through a session, which makes it simple to keep in a drawer or travel bag without worrying about batteries,” a buyer wrote.

12

Mistake: Sporting Dirty Sneakers

Solution: This Miracle Shoe Cleaner Kit That’ll Make Your Sneakers Look Brand New

Spruce up your favorite sneakers with this miracle shoe cleaner kit. The set comes complete with a soft-bristle brush and cleaner that will leave your footwear collection spotless. It is especially great for leather, suede, and nubuck. “I liked that it works on multiple materials too (leather, rubber, fabric, etc.) so I don’t have to buy separate cleaners,” wrote one happy customer.

13

Mistake: Wearing Bras That Are Too Tight

Solution: A Pack Of Bra Extenders That Allow For Even More Flexibility

This six-pack of bra extenders will help you find your perfect fit without having to invest in new pieces. It comes in three different shades — natural tan, black and white — that will go with pretty much anything. “Once you add it to your bra you can’t even feel it,” wrote one shopper. “You won’t know it’s there except for the fact that your bra fits better and is more comfortable. Just be sure to measure the spacing between the hooks in order to get the correct extenders.”

14

Mistake: Letting Your Everyday Bag Succumb To The Elements

Solution: Purse Cleaning Wipes To Swiftly Get Rid Of Stains

These purse cleaning wipes are a simple way to keep your everyday bag in great condition, regardless of how often you carry it. They’re made from a microfiber material with scrubbing technology specific to the brand. Purses aside, they can be used for furniture and shoes, too.

15

Mistake: Letting Heavy Earrings Pull At Your Piercing Holes

Solution: A Pack of See-Through Earrings Patches That Protects Your Lobes

Now, thanks to these support patches, you can swear oversized statement earrings without worrying about them ripping your earlobe. They’re made from a lightweight adhesive material that is essentially invisible. Just place them on the back of the piercing hole on your lobe.

16

Mistake: Wearing Smudged Glasses Or Sunglasses

Solution: Microfiber Cleaning Cloths That Fit In Any Purse

Rather than walking around with smudged or scuffed opticals, you might want to consider adding this pack of eyewear cleaning cloths as a great addition to your arsenal of everyday essentials. They’re made from a microfiber material and come in a pack of 12, which means you can place them in a bunch of different bags, just in case. Just throw them in the washing machine and reuse.

17

Mistake: Going For Style Over Function, When It Comes To Hosiery

Solution: A Pair Of Insulated Tights Lined With Fleece

While hosiery in the cold-weather months isn’t necessarily groundbreaking, these fleece-lined tights are an absolute game-changer. Not only are they insulated enough to wear in almost freezing temperatures, it’s also a great way to wear your favorite dresses and skirts well into the winter. But don’t just take our word for it, there are more than 16,000 Amazon reviews.

  • Available sizes: X-Small-Small — Medium-Large
  • Available colors: 28

18

Mistake: Choosing Underwear That Gives You Visible Panty Lines

Solution: Seamless Thongs That Don’t Show Camel Toe

Whether you’re wearing second-skin activewear or a bodycon dress for a night out, this seamless cotton thong is a great way to avoid unsightly panty lines. They’re made from a soft and smooth material that conforms to the body. Available in a pack of three, they come in a bunch of different neutral shades, which means you’re bound to find the one that works best for you.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 15

19

Mistake: Walking Around With Pet Hair On Your Outfits

Solution: An Electrostatic Glove That Gets Rid Of Pet Hair

Perfect for those who love their furry friends but not all the shedding that ensues, this pet hair glove is an absolute must. It’s designed from an electrostatic material with mesh backing, so it slips slightly over the hand. Use it to remove unsightly strands from clothing, furniture, carpets, and car seats.

20

Mistake: Keeping A Nylon Apple Watch Band For Every Occasion

Solution: This Luxe-Looking Watch Band To Switch It Up

Instantly elevate your look with this pretty Apple watch band. It’s made from an iridescent, tortoiseshell resin material that will make your wearable technology look luxurious. Choose between three different sizes and even more color options to find the one that best suits you.

21

Mistake: Spilling Out Of Clothing With Plunging Necklines

Solution: Pin Buttons For More Coverage

Give your outfit a little more coverage by pinning plunging necklines with this fashionable pin buttons. Available in a pack of three, they have a small but mighty design that discreetly closes blouses and side slits. The pearlescent and crystal-cut appearance is just an added bonus.

22

Mistake: Under Accessorizing

Solution: This Sweater-Shawl Hybrid That Offers The Best Of Both Worlds

If you like the look of a jumper draped around your shoulders, this adjustable sweater shawl is just the thing for you. It’s made from a lightweight knitted material with rib-knit trims. Choose between the dozens of different colors on offer, including micro stripe options.

  • Available colors: 18

23

Mistake: Ill-Fitting Pieces That Make Your Outfit Look Sloppy

Solution: Double-Sided Fashion Tape For Quick Outfit Edits

Gone are the days of lengthy trips to the tailor thanks to this double-sided fashion tape. Not only is it great for last-minutes outfit adjustments, it also helps keep your clothing secure in place. Plus, it’s gentle enough to be applied directly to your skin without worrying about unexpected breakouts.

24

Mistake: Never Cleaning Your Valuable Jewelry

Solution: This Diamond Cleaning Pen You Can Take On The Go

Keep your most precious jewelry pieces in top top shape with this handy diamond cleaning pen. It comes in compact packaging with a gentle bristle brush that gets into all the crevices of your rings, bracelets, and more. Just throw it in your bag to give your items a refresh on-the-go.

25

Mistake: Leaving Your Shoes Untreated In Inclement Weather

Solution: A Can Of Water-Repellent Shoe Spray As The Ultimate Protectant

If you have a pair of shoes you want to keep in pristine condition, despite wearing them in inclement weather, this water-repellent protector spray is the perfect solution. Just apply a few coats (in a ventilated space) to your footwear and then allow it to dry for at least 24 hours. It works on a number of different materials, including suede, leather, nubuck, canvas, nylon, and mesh.

26

Mistake: Sporting Baggy & Ill-Fitting Pants Or Jeans

Solution: Adding Decorative Waist Pant Tighteners That Temper The Fit

Instead of walking around in pants, jeans, or skirts that don’t fit, you may want to consider these decorative, yet functional, waist tightener pins. They come in a pack of four and are available in a bunch of different designs, including this five-petal flowers. Just pull off the backing to alter the fit.

27

Mistake: Styling Unintentionally Ripped Jeans With Holes

Solution: An Iron-On Repair Patch Made From Denim

Ripped jeans are great when it’s intentional but can be annoying if not, which is where these iron-on denim repair patches come in handy. They come with 20 pieces in each pack, in a range of different washes to ensure there’s a close, if not perfect, match. “The instructions say to heat an iron to 330° and apply heat for a minute,” wrote a happy shopper.

  • Available colors: 42

28

Mistake: Wearing Clothes With Residual Food Stains

Solution: A Stain Treater Spray That Works Like Magic

Very few things are as unsightly as food drippings on your clothes, which is why this stain treater spray is an absolute must. With more than 84,000 reviews, it has a potent formula that removes everything from coffee and grease spots. “I appreciate that it's gentle enough for baby clothes while being powerful enough to handle serious stains,” a buyer wrote. “The spray bottle delivers even coverage and makes application easy and precise.”

29

Mistake: Not Ironing Your Clothes Before You Leave The House

Solution: Using Anti-Static Spray To Get Rid Of Wrinkles

If you’re not a fan of how cumbersome ironing or steaming can be, this anti-static spray is a great alternative. It releases wrinkles, while getting rid of static cling and eliminating odors. The fresh laundry scent it gives your clothes is just an added bonus.

30

Mistake: Grabbing For Sweaters Or Tees With Holes In Them

Solution: This Stitch Gun That’s A Quick & Easy Fix

A clothing stitch gun helps you alter your clothes without having to take the time required to drop them off at the tailor. Convenient and easy to use, it comes with 2,000 black and white fastenings. It’s suitable for more durable fabrics like denim, linen, cotton, wool, and polyester.

31

Mistake: Wearing Old & Misshapen Hair Ties On Your Wrist

Solution: Woven Bracelet Hair Ties That Are A Part Of Your Everyday Stack

There’s nothing more frustrating than needing to put your hair in a ponytail or a bun and realizing you have no way to do so, which is where these hair tie bracelets come in handy. Woven into a knotted, twisted, and braided designs to resemble jewelry, they can be slipped over the wrist for function and style. Each pack comes with 48 colorful pieces.

32

Mistake: Leaving Pet Hair All Over Your Outfit

Solution: Keeping This Small Lint Roller On Hand

This strong but mighty lint roller helps remove pet hair from a range of surfaces, including clothing, couches, and cars. Reusable with a compact design that fits in the middle console and backseat compartments, alike. “The quick back and forth motion is how they pick up hair and even pilling from sweaters,” wrote a happy customer in their review. “It's what makes these rollers different from all of the other options.”

33

Mistake: Untamed Flyaways Ruining Your Slick Back Bun

Solution: This Hair Finishing Stick With A Spoolie Applicator That Combats Frizz

Achieve the perfect slick-back look with this flyaway stick. Easy to use and carry around in your purse, it has a brush that picks up product and applies it seamlessly. The cocktail of nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, aloe vera, and biotin is an added bonus.

34

Mistake: Wearing Tall Socks With Ankle-Baring Shoes

Solution: No-Show Inserts That Are Discreet & Won’t Slip Or Slide Around Your Shoes

Ditch the low-cut socks for these discreet shoe liners, instead. They’re made from a moisture-wicking knitted material that won’t trap odor over time. Just slip them into the bottom of your choice of footwear.

  • Available sizes: Small — Large
  • Available colors: 4

35

Mistake: Oversized Shirts & Dresses That Give You Boxy Proportions

Solution: Wear-With-Anything Belts For More Customized Looks

Every well-dressed individual needs a reliable accessory collection and these stretchy skinny waist belts are the perfect addition. Available in a pack of two, they’re made from an elasticated material with leather-like trims and polished hardware. “These belts are the unsung heroes of my wardrobe,” wrote one shopper.

36

Mistake: Limping & Fighting Through The Pain To Break In New Shoes

Solution: Using This Shoe-Stretch Spray To Loosen Them Up

Rather than smiling through the proverbial (and sometimes literal) pain of breaking in a new pair of boots or heels, this premium-grade shoe stretch is a quicker and easier alternative. Just give the tight areas (inside and out) a few sprays before walking around in them wearing thick socks, until dry. “The combination of the stretcher and spray really softened and expanded the leather,” one reviewer wrote. “My shoes fit so much better now.”

37

Mistake: Wearing Tight Jeans Or Pants That Look Like They’re Too Small

Solution: Flexible Waist Extender Buttons For A Little Extra Room

Give your pants a little additional room with these button waist extenders. Available in a pack of six, they’re made from a hard but flexible plastic material to give you 1 to 2 more inches. Just slip the loop over your button fly and close shut.

38

Mistake: Walking Around With Toothpaste Stains On Your Shirt

Solution: A Printed Scarf To Help Conceal Spot Imperfections

Whether you’re covering up an imperfection like a stain or simply accessorizing, this printed scarf is a great outfit accompaniment. It’s made from 100% Mulberry silk that’s decorated in an artfully-designed print. Try wrapping it around your neck like a handkerchief or tying it around the handle of your favorite handbag.

  • Available colors: 35

39

Mistake: Only Carrying Your Bag By The Top Handle

Solution: Adding This Replacement Gold Chain Strap To Wear It Crossbody

Whether you’ve misplaced it or are looking for a decorative alternative, this flat gold replacement strap is both convenient and aesthetically-pleasing. It’s made from a sturdy, gold-plated metal material that has a polished finish, making it look a lot more expensive than it actually is. Choose between a few different color and style options on offer.

40

Mistake: Leaving The House Without Looking At The Back Of Your Hair

Solution: A Multi-Paneled Mirror That Gives You a 360-Degree View

This 360-degree mirror is a no-fuss way to ensure you get a look at your reflection from all angles. Its foldable design opens up to multiple panels, each of which provides you a different view. The fact that its anti-fog is just the icing on top.

41

Mistake: Walking Around In Broken Shoes

Solution: Using Shoe Repair Adhesive To Bring Old Pairs Back To Life

Instead of making a trip to the cobbler, consider using this shoe repair adhesive as a quick and affordable alternative. So aptly named, Shoe Goo, it’s a extra-strength glue that easily adheres two pairs of shoes to each other. “The consistency is thick and tacky, which helps it stay exactly where you apply it,” one user wrote. “It spreads easily with a toothpick or small stick and dries clear overnight. Once cured, the bond feels almost rubberized—flexible yet tough.”

42

Mistake: Leaving Your Sunglasses At Risk For Scuffing & Breaking

Solution: This Soft Eyewear Bag To Keep Your Glasses Protected

If you’re looking for a stylish way to keep your favorite pair of sunglasses protected, this soft glasses bag is just the thing. It’s made from padded leather-like material with a squeezable, magnetic design. Choose from three different colors, including a bold leopard print.

43

Mistake: Letting The Straps Of Your Bag Slip Off Your Shoulder

Solution: A Nonslip Grip Strip For The Shoulder Straps Of Your Bag

Your tote bag’s or purse’s straps slipping off your shoulder while you carry it can make you look disheveled, which is why these nonslip grip strip pads are pretty genius. Just peel off the adhesive back and add it to the stop of your handbag straps for both security and comfortability. “You can cut the strap to fit to size as needed,” one shopper wrote.

44

Mistake: Blistered Heels From Breaking In New Shoes

Solution: Cushioned Heel Pads You Can Slip Inside Your Choice Of Footwear

Whether it’s for breaking in new shoes or walking around the city all day, these heel pads will help prevent blisters from ruining your feet. Available varying neural shades, they come in a pack of four and are cushioned for added comfort. Just slip them in the back heel of sneakers, ballet flats, and other shoes.

45

Mistake: Walking Around With Dingy White Shirts

Solution: Disposable Shirt Protectors To Keep Your Collar Clean

Add these disposable shirt protectors to your favorite blouses to prevent sunscreen, makeup transfer, and grime from getting them dingy. Just peel off the adhesive back before applying when you get dressed in the morning. Then, just remove at the end of the day and repeat.

46

Mistake: Being Underdressed For The Occasion

Solution: Rhinestone Button Covers To Give It A More Polished Feel

Elevate even the simplest of looks with these rhinestone button covers. Just pop the decorative additions on to the buttons for a little added sparkle. They can also be placed on your cuffs or a soft pouch.

47

Mistake: Getting Foundation On Your Light-Colored Clothing

Solution: Setting Spray That Prevents Makeup From Transferring Into Your Clothing

If you find yourself at risk for getting makeup on your clothes, this no-transfer setting spray is a must for your routine. It has a lightweight, matte finish that will prevent foundation or concealer from getting on your light-colored pieces. “It’s also gentle enough for sensitive skin, which is a big plus for me,” wrote one reviewer.

48

Mistake: Not Accessorizing Your Shoes

Solution: These Shoe Charms That Offer A Nice Finishing Touch

Give your sneakers a little more character with this pack of rain shoe charms. Offered in a pack of 30, it includes a range of cutesy bows, pins, and jewelry for added sparkle. “Very cute pins and charms. Several so you could use on several different projects,” wrote one Amazon shopper. “Love the pins — they are study and will stay closed even through wear and tear.”

49

Mistake: Never Cleaning That Leather Bag You Carry Everyday

Solution: A Bottle Of Leather Cleaner For A Quick Wipe Down

Give your favorite bag a little refresh with this leather honey cleaner. Not only does it help make your purse last longer, it also gives it a rejuvenated look to make it look (almost) like new. It’s also safe for all colors, so you don’t have to worry about ruining lighter shades.

50

Mistake: Letting Your Purse Touch The Ground

Solution: A Foldable Purse Hook For Tables & Countertops

This foldable purse hook is a genius way to keep your bag off the ground (or in the seat next to you) when dining out at a restaurant or cafe. Just place the decorative base top on the table or counter, securing it in place before placing the shoulder straps on the hook. Choose from more than a dozen different designs.