9 Rules to Look Boujee on a Budget

Status: Published

Features Writer: Jewel Abasita

Editor: Atoshi Sikdar

Date: 10 July, 2021

Photo credit: Unsplash

Looking fabulous for a dinner with friends, a date, clubbing, or even a family and school gathering is something all of us want.The pressure piles on high to keep up a good public appearance because you never know who you might accidentally end up meeting!

If you know me, you would also know how much I love looking my best. Although, as much as spending a fortune to buy full-on designers can be worthwhile, one needs to simply know the art of comfortably pairing outfits to pull off a gorgeous look. 

#1       Picking the perfect pair

Cloth matching has some hidden rules of sophistication to it. If you know these rules, you are already halfway to avoiding a train wreck.

Having a deep understanding of your body contour, colour combinations, and fabric combinations is necessary. But this is not as complicated as it might sound. 

Excited? Great!

Wipe the sweat off your face and try being observant of the fashion trends around you. How you dress reflects a part of you when you step into a room. Avoid dress pairs that could come off as messy and unflattering. No matter how on a budget your outfit may be, proper pairing can help you create a complete stunner. 

#2     Opt for matching jewelleries  

It's no secret that jewellery has a way of speaking for itself. You have to know the message you wish to convey and pick the right jewellery.

Generally, simple neck chains can be sexy on a night out with friends, family, or dates. Not too bold, not overly emphasized, but just right. Although, a simple neck chain may not always fit into the equation. Which is why, a conscious matching is required before making your choice. When dressing, know when to use bold jewellery and pick jewellery colours that suit your outfit. 

Sometimes, you may only need just a pair of earrings to compliment your look. Knowing this can prevent you from looking overly adorned. 

Ensure that your jewellery suits your dress and your purse. Pay attention to the accessories on your handbag or purse. This will make you come out more fashion-conscious.

#3 Never take your footwear lightly

A pair of slippers on a dinner gown could be a total turn-off for a dinner date no matter how fashionable your slippers look.

Just like design pairing, footwear has its wear requirements.

Some footwear, like the stiletto, is best worn at night for clubs because they are bold and sexy, while some are perfect during the day, like a simple wedge.

It's important to avoid immoderate heels. They not only feel uncomfortable, but they also come off as uncomfortable. Shoes or sandals with moderate heels can usually do the trick.

#4 Classy bags can up your dress game

The importance of classy bags can never be overemphasized. Purses or bags with minimal designs can help you look sophisticated. Making sure that your purse matches your accessories can also go a long way in tying your outfit together. 

Your purse should always be a natural (black, white, nude, and other natural colours) hue, nothing too loud. It's a rule; no debates here. 

#5  Your hair do, your pride

Most times, your hairstyle depends on the neckline of your dress which can either scream pure sophistication or simply messy.

For a simple dinner or get-together, go for braided styles or buns. A messy bun is far from the options so pull it off your checklist.

All in all, go for a hairstyle that is neat and natural that helps in highlighting your features.

#6  No screaming claws allowed!

Long nails can be alluring when in a photoshoot. But when it comes to stealing the show with elegance, they are a far cry from it.

Short nail do’s with natural nail polish or minimal nail designs serve as brilliant confidence boosters and leave you looking an absolute beaut. 

#7 Steal the show with a touch of make-up

Appearing well dressed and made-up can add that little something to make you drip with class. Make-up helps you highlight your physical structure- cheekbones, nose, and the rest.

Using intense colours is a total turn-off and must be avoided. Make sure to purchase the right product for your skin type and colour.

Go for a natural-looking eyeshadow hue. If you want to use lash extensions, make sure they are not overly long and fixed neatly. 

Lastly, your lipstick must make a statement. You can never go wrong with natural hues on a well made-up face!

#8 Harsh perfumes? Absolute no!

Dress checked, accessories checked, make-up lite.

Congratulations! You have successfully been able to achieve a sophisticated look.

From a distance, you are sure to grasp attention without even trying too hard. But can you still keep the attention glued on you?

Your scent matters. The sense of smell is scientifically proven to be a strong point of attraction in most people and should not be neglected. Purchase perfumes that are long-lasting, mild and sweet scented. 

#9 Good Clothes, AND on a budget?!

If you are looking to buy into the idea of budget purchasing, thrift and charity stores are the place to start. Thrift stores sell good quality upcycled, pre-loved clothes at a price lower than the retail.

 Now in trend, these stores have recently progressed online as well due to post-pandemic adjustments and digitalization. So, if you were worried about not having a thrift closeby,  don’t be. Majority of thrift sellers have established their social media presence on sites such as Instagram, Tiktok, and the likes making it easy for consumers to contact and avail their services.

That being said, there could be some vendors trying to scam you. Find a trusted source through referrals and you can start your journey to adopting a sustainable lifestyle. 

So there you have it. With these 9 golden rules, you would be well on your way to achieving a sophisticated look that is not too heavy on your wallet!