Easy and Affordable Ways to Update Your Look

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR ~ JORDAN

As one year ends and another begins, it’s inevitable to start thinking about change. After all, a new year presents the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, and that includes your wardrobe. We don’t mean completely overhauling your closet, either. In fact, there are plenty of easy, affordable ways to update your look for 2018.

Not sure where to start? We’ve rounded up some style ideas to consider, as well as tips on how to incorporate them into your ensembles this year.

Choose checks

Tired of plaid? Consider updating your look with another classic preppy print: checks. From pants to skirts and blouses, you’ll be seeing a lot of this print in 2018. And fortunately, it blends pretty easily if you’re feeling brave enough to mix patterns. A check wrap blouse looks darling with skinny jeans and riding boots, while a check tunic sweater looks sophisticated over leggings.

Pick purple

Did you know that Pantone declared ultra violet the official color of 2018? Vibrant and rich with a royal vibe, it’s a stellar hue to integrate into your closet. In Pantone’s words: “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, #UltraViolet communicates originality, ingenuity and visionary thinking that points us to the future.”

It’s a relatively intense shade, so unless you’re feeling bold, your best bet is to incorporate it in small doses. For example, you might try an ultra violet clutch, belt or pair of patent flats to brighten up a black and white ensemble. Or, you could always try lavender instead if you prefer a softer look. Michael Kors, Proenza Schouler, Tibi and a slew of other designers used lavender on their spring 2018 runways, so it’s still very much on-trend. Plus, it happens to be pretty much a universally flattering hue.

Get artsy

The runways for Spring 2018 were bursting with art-inspired pieces — from the designs at Prada printed with cartoon designs by female artists in the ‘30s and ‘60s to Warhol prints on Raf Simon’s dresses and Rei Kawakubo’s pieces with prints by the Italian painter Giuseppe Arcimboldo.

Having an art-inspired piece is a great conversation starter, but it’s also an easy way to make any outfit look more playful. Why not support independent craft makers and scope out Etsy’s massive collection of art-inspired T-shirts and tote bags?

Embrace athleisure

Workout apparel isn’t just for hitting the gym — not in 2018, anyway. So go ahead and embrace athleisure for a comfy yet totally on-trend look. Still need an excuse? Athleisure was on the runways at Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tod’s and more, so rest assured that workout wear can still be fashionable.

The key to making this look work is choosing pieces with bright colors or fun patterns, and garments that fit your body flawlessly. For example, full coverage sports bras look sporty chic under racerback tanks. Leggings that come in luxe fabrics, like metallics, or have eye-catching details around the waistband or ankles, will work better for everyday wear than basic ones. Even sneakers in a bright hue and a pullover sweatshirt with an inspirational fitness-related slogan can be a fun combo.

Show some sparkle

Glamorous gals, rejoice: Sequins and sparkles are not longer only reserved for a dressy night out. Glitter has been popping up left and right for 2018, so there’s no better time to embrace your love of glitz and get ready to grab some attention wherever you go. All you need is a small dose of this trend to update your look and stand out, so try just one piece. A pair of glitzy block heels will instantly add pizzazz to a simple LBD, while sparkly cardigan looks darling with a solid pencil skirt and a sequined tank is stunning under a sleek black blazer.

Take up a trench

If you’re going to invest in a piece of outerwear in 2018, you might want to consider a trenchcoat. Not just any trench coat, though — look for one with a little bit of detailing for added visual interest. For example, look for a trench with a ruffle around the bottom or an oversized drapey collar. Or you might opt for a trench cape instead. A patterned trench makes even the simplest ensemble look suddenly more interesting. The best part of all? You’re bound to get a ton of wear out of this particular piece all through the spring, summer and fall.

Find your inner flower child

Florals simply never go out of style, but this year, you’ll be seeing a ‘60s throwback take on the print, thanks to designers like Marni and Balenciaga bringing it back. Look out for large blossoms and punchy hues — a print that’s feminine without taking itself too seriously. We love the idea of a ‘60s floral blouse paired with high-waisted jeans and suede booties for a boho look while transitioning into spring. If you want to incorporate this trend in a subtle way, go for a ‘60s floral scarf to add some intrigue to a basic T-shirt dress and denim jacket.

Try tried-and-true tailoring 

We know what you’re thinking: “But tailoring never goes out of style.” And that’s exactly why it’s a super practical way to refresh your wardrobe. Whether you decide to rock separates or go for a full-on pantsuit, you can’t go wrong with tailoring in 2018. Consider pairing a structured blazer with denim shorts in the spring for a look that’s laid-back but still polished. Or why not sport skinny suiting pants with a graphic tee? The point is, tailoring isn’t just for the office — you can mix and match it with less professional pieces to strike a casual chic vibe.

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