Cinderella you shall go to the ball: making cheap clothes look luxe
Summer holiday wiped out your bank balance, but still need some retail therapy? Our fave industry insiders have the know-how you need
1. GET INTO TAILORING
GEMMA SHEPPARD X Factor head stylist, whose clients include Ashley roberts “If the fit of a high-street item isn’t spot on, take it straight to a tailor. A £20 skirt from New Look can endup looking better than a £300 designer version with just a couple of stitches.”
2. BE BOLD & CUSTOMISE
SHARON RIDOYNAUTH stylist for Ellie Goulding “I like to tweak pieces and make them more trend-inspired. Right now, I’m customising high-street jeans by cutting the hems and fraying them to give them the Vetements look.”
3. PICK THE RIGHT SIZE
VICTORIA ADCOCK Celebrity stylist, whose clients include Kourtney Kardashian “Alwaysgo for the size and cut that fits you properly – no one cares what number is on the label. Trousers got an ugly looking hem? Buy the longer-length if there’s the option, then use iron-on wonder web tape to turn them up.”
4. ACCESSORISE
KAT BYRNE Acting style director for heat “Cheap updates are my secret styling weapon. Classic bag s are instantly refreshed with seasonal accessories like huge charms or Fendi- inspired detachable straps. A silky Rollins-esque skinny scarf will transform a tea dress, or a ribbon tied under your blouse collar will nod to Gucci. Little touches can have a huge impact.”
5. BUY REAL DENIM
JO GREASLEY Stylist at ASOS “Heavy and natural fabrics always look more expensive, so always buy real denim – none of this stretch denim with elastane. The basic rule is, if it stretches, it’s not right.”
6. STICK TO ONE COLOUR
JESSICA VINCE Owner of DRESSR “Wearing separates in top-to-toe tonal colours, such as all black, blush, beige or grey, will always look intentional, well-considered and catwalk-inspired. For the most effective way to work this look, mix textures like knits and cottons, making sure the shades are very similar.”
7. IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
LAURA PUDDY Fashion Stylist & Writer “Disguising a tell-tale cheap elasticated waist with a belt, removing excess bling and swapping up cheap boring buttons for metallic or wooden designs will transform a budget buy for less than an Espresso Martini.”