Inexpensive Style Hacks

The most stylish people aren't walking around in head-to-toe designer looks. Their clothes are personal, showcasing a perfectly imperfect individual style. That's how you should think about your clothes as well. After all, you don't have to spend a lot to look great—and sometimes you don't have to spend anything at all. You've just got to know how to maximize your what you already own.

Simple Swaps

Sometimes upgrading small details can make a big impact. Replace standard shoe laces with colorful or athletic ones to breathe new life into old boots or to give your dress shoes a more casual vibe. Elevate your beat up canvas sneakers with some new leather laces. Update your outerwear by swapping plastic buttons for metal ones. They're not hard to sewn on and can instantly make a coat or jacket look new.

DIY Tailoring

If you've got some pieces that you're not wearing all that much, take some scissors to them. Make a band collar shirt by cutting off the collar of a button down. Make a short sleeve sweatshirt by snipping off the sleeves. Cut off the ends of your jeans to the perfect length and let the hem fray. Sweat pants too long? Turn them into shorts. The results aren't perfect, but that's the point.

Cuff Your Pants

A crisp cuff on a pair of proper trousers looks sharp and lets your pants hang better too. Plus you can add one with just a few folds and an iron. Make it more permanent with a couple stitches or some iron-on hem tape. Add a slight taper to chinos and jeans with a casual, rumpled pinch roll (shown left).

Patch It

You don't have to throw out a favorite piece just because you've got a hole in it. In fact, you now have the opportunity to make it even more special by customizing it to your taste. Patch up a hole with a complementary color or fabric like a bandana or a uniquely textured cloth. Now you've got a one-of-a-kind piece.

Inexpensive Style Hacks

Simple Swaps

Patch It

Clothing Repairs

Shine Your Shoes