- Apr 18

How to Instantly Look Polished & Elegant

Hello Dolls,

More and more often, I've needed to quickly gather myself and look polished whether I'm meeting up with a friend for lunch or making a run to the grocery store. I dare to mention my behind-schedule dress up time when I'm running late to head to an event. Nevertheless, I've learned some lessons along the way. I've came to realize what parts of an outfit are most essential to highlight, what ensembles makes a statement while keeping an effortless look, and what makes for the best grab-and-go accessories. I want to share a mini go-to guide to instantly look polished.

Every lady can uphold a polished appearance every day by doing these few simple practices. Whether you're lounging at home, running errands, heading to work, or meeting for the occasional brunch, these easy styling tips and daily routines may make it effortless to look polished, sophisticated & elegant.

In my most recent video, How to *instantly* Look Polished & Put Together, I shared 5 simple things every lady can do to instantly achieve a polished look.

I'll elaborate on some of my go-to primp & pamper practices and favorite products that adds to a sophisticated, clean appearance.

Follow the Classic Rule:

Match Your Accessories

Shoes, belt, purse, hat...

Call me old fashion, but this classic rule just works. Some people may be reluctant to go for the matchy-matchy look that may look too perfect, but on the contraire, the end result is dependent on how you style the accessories. Of course, the shoes and purse does not have to match perfectly. Your gray ballet flats does not have to be the exact same shade as your gray tote bag. This is where the 'close but no cigar' phrase is actually positive.

When your accessories, coordinate with each other, it creates a more uniform look. I don’t know about you, but personally, I always go for black shoes and a black purse. Black becomes a reliant base color in my wardrobe. I know whether it’s winter, spring, summer or fall, these black accessories are my go-to dependable pieces. It makes throwing on an outfit and heading out the door a lot easier.

When you’re heading to the gym, wear accessories that have matching tones. Coordinating your baseball cap with your shoes and bag, crates a more polish look. That works even if you’re going to the gym.

Darling & Chic

Coordinating Styles

Building a Sophisticated & Chic Wardrobe

Focusing on Lifestyle + Personal Style

When you're looking to elevate your wardrobe, it's important to gather pieces that works for you right now. It's tempting to shop for the future 'you' who is attending brunch twice a week and heading to the winery with the ladies after a posh trip to the spa. All attainable activities for us soft living ladies, but for the majority days of the week, where do you find yourself going the most? The top 3-5 places you go every week, should be the focus of building your wardrobe. In my case, I'd look for casual and comfortable pieces to wear when I'm running errands, like going to the grocery store or when I'm heading to the gym. I'd also prioritize smart, casual pieces for when I need to stop by the HQ to pick up items for an upcoming event.

Remember, fashion and styling is supposed to cater to you. Sometimes one can be very passionate and interested in specific style aesthetics. Hence the circling trend cycles, ie. coquettecore, cottagecore, balletcore, the mob-wife aesthetic, the old money aesthetic and the list goes on & on.

It's a good thing to become inspired by trends and aim to achieve a cohesive look. Yet, it’s better to take inspiration from your favorite trending aesthetic or Pinterest board and decide which styles would realistically work best for you. Whats worth investing in? That doesn't mean everything you buy has to last you minimum 10 years.

Makeup Balancing

Sometimes it's best to color within the lines

A simple rule to follow.

Blush, lipstick and eyeshadow colors should coordinate.

At least 2 out of the 3 should be complimentary colors. The unsaid obvious tip, is to wear makeup colors, that doesn't just 'pop' on you, but compliment your skin tone complexion. Thats something to keep in mind.

DARLING HANDBAG GO-TOS

As I mentioned before. There are times where I'm running late and I'm relieved to look into my handbag and see my mini pouches filled with beauty items and little accessories.