How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

fix frumpy clothes

I only recommend products I love and I think you will, too. If you click on links I provide, I may receive a little compensation. Learn more.

Ready to fix frumpy clothes & transform into the absolute fashion goddess you were born to be?

Are you tired of looking like you’ve just rolled out of bed or like you’re wearing your grandma’s hand-me-downs? Have you ever looked in your closet, staring at those frumpy, outdated clothes and wishing you could wave a magic wand and make them fabulous?

Umm, I think I know what you need to say bye-bye to those yawn-worthy outfits – banish those frumpy clothes!

Well, here are my 18 hottest tips on how to transform those drab clothes into something totally fab:

What does looking frumpy mean?

When we talk about frumpy, it’s the polar opposite of chic and stylish. Picture this: clothes that are ill-fitting, outdated, or just plain blah.

The frump factor hides your best features and is a total confidence dampener. Outfits look shapeless and do not compliment your body type.

18 Sure-Fire Hacks to Fix Frumpy Clothes & Styling Issues!

1. Dress According to Your Body Type

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

Newsflash: one-size-fits-all fashion is a myth! Your body is a work of art, and it’s crucial to dress it the way it deserves. Knowing your body type and understanding what fits and flatters it is life-changing!

Not everything is meant for you, and that’s okay because there are actually clothes that are specifically created for YOU!

So do the research, find your type, and flaunt the outfits that embrace and enhance your fabulous curves, angles, and edges.

Not sure where to start? Check out this article on dressing according to your body shapes!

2. Always Balance Your Proportions

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

Take it from a fashion guru: the key to a stylish outfit is balance. If you’re rocking a flowy top, pair it with some tight-fitting jeans or leggings. On the flip side, if you’re feeling a voluminous skirt or wide-leg pants, throw on a fitted, structured top.

Balancing your look ensures that your outfit doesn’t overwhelm or underwhelm you. Besides, variety is the spice of life, right?

3. Start Defining Your Waist

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @sophielouisesdiary

A lil cinch never hurt anyone! Highlight your waist to elevate even the simplest outfit instantly. Try a statement belt with your favorite jeans or a stand-out belt bag that works double duty: function and fabulosity.

Don’t be afraid to play with belts and waist-defining accessories that unleash the power of your hourglass!

  • Pro Tip: Wear the belt right above your belly button!

4. Experiment with Patterns, Textures, and Colors

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @whatemwore

Throw away that fear of standing out, babe! Embrace patterns, textures, and colors that make you feel like your most vibrant self. Mix and match stripes, florals, or animal prints, but remember to keep that balance (tip #2!).

Pair a statement piece with a neutral base or gradually build your confidence with subtly patterned accessories.

5. Tuck In your loose shirts and t-shirts

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

Instantly give your frumpy tops a fresh new look by tucking them in. This simple trick does wonders for creating a sleek, stylish ensemble. Whether you’re rocking high-waisted jeans or a classy pencil skirt, a little tuck goes a long way!

6. Accessorize, Baby!

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @tuttozarandco

Put aside your ho-hum jewelry – it’s time to make a statement! Bold, chunky necklaces, big hoop earrings, or a stack of bangles can transform your look from drab to fab in a snap! Experiment with accessories that speak to your personality and let your inner fashion diva shine.

Confused what accessories you absoluetly need? Check out this article on all the must-have accessories for women!

7. But don’t overload Layers and Accessories too!

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

I get it, layers and accessories can add spice to your outfit, but know when to say when! Overloading these babies can make your look go from fabulous to frumpy in no time.

Instead, let each piece shine on its own! Stick to one statement piece, like a cool scarf or a bold necklace and let that piece do the talking!

  • And yes, layering doesn’t always mean adding jackets and coats but adding any kind of interesting element too comes into layering. Now that’s your pro tip!

8. Say Sayonara to Outdated, Defective Accessories!

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

Honey, if it’s broken, toss it! Don’t do the Walk of Shame with those broken sunglasses or that scratched-up belt. A tear in the scarf? Toss ’em. Broken necklaces? Adios.

Show a little self-love and invest in a new, trendy accessory that’ll complement your look. And please say goodbye to that butterfly hair clip; we left the 90s behind for a reason!

9. Choose Simplicity Over Loud Prints

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @chloezhaang

Although wild prints can be super fun, sometimes sticking to simpler, more versatile patterns can work wonders for your wardrobe. Busy prints can scream “FRUMP” real fast.

Try incorporating classic, timeless, simpler prints (think: stripes, plaid, and florals) or solid colors, which are easier to mix and match. Remember: less is more! Pair your outfit with basic neutrals or even a pop of color for that stand-out look.

10. Color Me Pretty! Choose the Right Colors for Your Skin Tone & Undertone

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

We’ve all had that one shirt we thought was cute, but found out it washed us out. Umm… no, thanks! Avoid looking like a fashion disaster by picking colors that suit your skin tone and undertone.

Warm skin tones? Go for earthy shades! Cool skin tones? Pastels and jewel tones will be your BFF. And after undertones, there are seasons, too! Summer, spring, fall and winter – I share ’em all in my Haute Hacks Handbook and I know you’ll ’em!

11. Underneath It All: Wear the Right-Sized Undergarments

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

The foundation of any fabulous outfit starts with proper underwear. Rocking the wrong size or style can wreak havoc on your style game – think visible panty lines, saggy bras, and bunching that’s just not cute. But how?

  • Find your perfect fit: Don’t just guess your bra size – leave it to the pros! Visit a lingerie store for a professional fitting to make sure you’re sportin’ the right-sized bra that gives you the support and shape that’ll make your outfits look 💯.
  • Choose seamless undies: Say “buh-bye” to panty lines! Consider opting for seamless underwear, thongs, or boyshorts, which are totally fabulous for creating a smooth silhouette under your clothes.

12. Tailor Time!

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @amyfuchsia

You know those baggy pants that look more “saggy” than “snazzy”? It’s time to breathe new life into them! Get yourself to a tailor and have them fitted to achieve that sleek, modern look you’ve been dreaming of.

Oh babe, a little tailoring magic can make even the oldest, most outdated clothing item feel brand new!

13. Wear unbuttoned shirts to create that laid-back vibe.

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

Get that chic, laid back and stylish look by keeping the first three buttons of your shirt open.

First of all, it creates a V-neck, thereby elongating your upper torso. Secondly, it helps you prevent that boxy, suffocated look.

  • Pro tip: You can wear an elegant pendant with your unbuttoned shirt to flaunt an elegant look.

14. Upgrade Your Shoe Game!

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @iffat.marash

Fabulous footwear is a must-have for any outfit that’s slaying. Change out those dull flats for a killer pair of ankle boots, or swap your tired sneakers for some sassy strappy sandals.

Of course, you don’t have to wear heels every time, so when you want to be comfier, opt for trendier footwear like mules, chunky loafers, and kitten or block heels. They just elevate the outfit a lil better than rounded ballet flats!

See how easy it is? A simple shoe switch can give your whole outfit a new lease on life!

15. Bye-Bye Boxy: Say No to Shapeless Styles

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @sophielouisesdiary

Boxy, baggy clothes can look mad casual, but sometimes, they just give off a sloppy and frumpy vibe. Toss those culprits outta your closet and invest in structured styles that complement your body shape.

  • Define the waist: Look for clothes that cinch in at the waist, like wrap dresses, belted coats, or high-waisted skirts. These will give you an instant hourglass effect, and we all know that’s pure glam!
  • Play up your assets: Got killer legs? Show ’em off with midi or pencil skirts. Blessed with a toned upper back? Rock a sexy halter or racerback top. Flaunt your best features and watch heads turn!

16. Flaunt Your Fave Features

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @morganerenaudi

Know what makes you feel absolutely fab? Embrace it! If you love your legs, wear skirts and dresses that show them off. If you’re proud of your waist, opt for high-waisted pants and skirts. Putting on clothes that emphasize your favorite features will make you feel like a million bucks.

17. Look for styling inspiration on Pinterest

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!

It is always helpful to seek styling inspiration. You can take some tips from your fashionista bestie. That girl next door, too, can give you some amazing styling ideas.

However, nothing can beat the inspiration that you get from Pinterest. This helps you stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and avoid looking frumpy.

18. Choose outfits that make you feel good and confident

How to Fix Frumpy Clothes and Go From Drab to Fab!
Courtesy: @whatemwore

Sometimes, it is better to forget all the intricacies, such as dress code, fashion trends, etc., and go for outfits that lift your mood instantly.

We all have those simple outfits that bring back some amazing memories, make us feel confident, or simply help us fall in love once again. Go for those “special” outfits once in a while.

Final Thoughts on How to Fix Frumpy Clothes

You can spend your entire month’s salary on your outfits and still look frumpy. You may be in your 20s and still manage to look frumpy.

So, it’s not about money or your age. Rather, it’s about the choice of outfits that you make in your everyday life.

Whether you are going to work, college, a family gathering or a happening party, the focus should always be on styling tastefully.

Put on something that lifts your mood. Accessorize up elegantly. Spritz your favorite perfume, and voila! My lady is ready to kill with her looks!

Next time you find yourself clueless as to why you are looking frumpy, you know what to do. Use the styling hacks that I mentioned above and ace that young, vivacious and lively look.

Your girl will be back with another value-laden content piece. Until next time, xo!

Related articles on how to not look frumpy

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *