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Okay, let’s be real — no one tries to look cheap. But sometimes, the smallest details in our outfits or styling choices can totally throw off the whole vibe. You could be wearing a perfectly good outfit, but one little thing can make it feel… off.
And before you spiral — no, this isn’t about gatekeeping style or chasing designer labels. Because looking expensive is so not about wearing designer head to toe, it’s about smart styling, clean lines, and ditching the things that silently sabotage your whole look.
So if you’ve ever wondered why your outfit isn’t giving what it’s supposed to give, this list is your new BFF.
Let’s talk about the 18 sneaky things that make you look cheap—and how to level up, instantly.
1. Peep-toe heels with every single outfit
Girl, oh girl, peep-toes have had their moment. But in 2008, not today. Yes, they can still go with a few (very few) clothing items, but not all. They’re boring, dull, and make even a classy outfit look cheap.
Instead, go for something pointed-toe. Anything will work, pumps, sleek ankle boots, or even mules. They’ll bring more sophistication and class to your outfits and will go with almost anything in your closet, be it a sundress or a formal suit.
Plus, pointed-toe shoes elongate your legs, whereas peep-toe cut them short.
2. Outfits covered in flashy logos
I get it, when you’re spending that much on a designer piece, you want the world to see it. And that’s exactly what truly rich people won’t do. (Because obviously, it shouts new money, attention seeking, and cheap 😉
Sure, one logo item can make a statement, but don’t cover yourself head-to-toe (shirt, blazer, cap, belt, shoes) with logo-laden pieces.
Pro Tip: Choose investment basics without logos. A clean-cut blazer or a structured tote bag screams elegance without shouting the brand. Classy > flashy.
3. Multicolor heels that clash with your look
Sure, bold and colorful heels are a statement—but not always a good one. If they clash with your outfit, they become the wrong kind of standout. Imagine pairing those rainbow stilettos with a leopard-print top (we cringe just thinking about it).
Stick to neutral or monochrome styles for your heels. Save your colorful faves for outfits that enhance the colors, not compete with them. Like a patent red heel with an all-black outfit, now that’s wow!
4. Visible bra straps or panty lines
You don’t really notice it—until you’re the one catching a glimpse of someone’s bra strap or panty line sneaking out. Suddenly, it’s all you can see.
So, please invest in seamless underwear, strapless bras, and stickies. These are small details but have a big impact.
5. Wearing the wrong lip color
Here’s the deal: Your lip color can either elevate your look or completely derail it. Choosing a shade that clashes with your skin tone (too chalky, too fluorescent, or unnecessarily bold for the occasion) can make your makeup look less chic and more, well… clownish.
Stick to hues that complement your skin undertones.
- Warm undertones? Try coral and peachy nudes.
- Cool undertones? Reach for pinks or berries.
- When in doubt, a universally flattering red can be your best friend.
- Always test your lip color in natural light. That bright pink at home might hit differently under office fluorescents.
6. Piling on too much jewelry
Statement necklace? Gorgeous. Statement earrings? Stunning. Both at the same time, plus a chunky bracelet and bangles? Now you’re just overdoing it.
Pick a focal point, instead! If you’re going for bold earrings, skip the necklace. Stacking minimalist rings? Keep the wrists simple. A single statement piece paired with subtle accents ensures you look polished instead of piled-on.
7. Excessive cut-outs or sheer clothing
Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with showing a little skin, but too many peek-a-boo pieces that leave too little to the imagination can often come off as cheap instead of sexy.
- Choose one feature to highlight, whether it’s your back, collarbone, or midriff. Less is definitely more here.
- Invest in high-quality underlayers to pair with sheer tops (a lacy bralette or fitted underslip can make all the difference!).
8. Not styling your hair at all
Even the trendiest outfit can fall flat if your hair looks like you just rolled out of bed. Effortless doesn’t mean no effort!
Can’t commit to major styling? Go for polished looks like slick ponytails, natural waves with hair oil, or a cute claw clip updo. Easy but effective.
Also, please be sure you’re at least taming your flyways away, if not much. 😉
9. Wearing too much perfume
Yes, we all love a signature scent, but when your fragrance announces your arrival before you do, it’s not a great look (or scent). Overpowering perfume can come off as overwhelming and cheap rather than classy and alluring.
So, what to do and still make your perfume whisper class?
- Stick to no more than three sprays (wrists, neck, maybe one in the air to walk through).
- Pro Tip: Layering your scent with a matching lotion can give a subtle, long-lasting fragrance without being overpowering.
10. Sunglasses with loud, oversized logos
Okay this one has a fine line between right and wrong, so hear me out.
Sunglasses aren’t just functional; they’re a statement. Most of the time, they’re an accessory that completes an outfit.
But extra big, blingy, and sometimes colorful logos on the side (or especially on the glass itself) can make them look less couture and more costume-y.
You must’ve noticed that sunglasses with such logos often come only as a trend and not as an evergreen piece.
But of course, some sunglasses can still look chic with branding on the side, so try to spot the difference between glamorous and gimmicky, and not just focus on screaming money.
11. Acrylics that look way too dramatic
I love a good nail moment, but if your acrylics are so long they can double as chopsticks or are overloaded with rhinestones, gems, glitters and whatnot, they can teeter into tacky.
I personally hate that kind of nail art. They are wayyyyyyy too far away from tacky!
Try to keep it classy with shorter lengths, neutral colors, or simple nail art. They’ll look more expensive and sophisticated. I have so many old money nails, minimalist nails, neutral nails, simple nail ideas for you to take inspo from.
12. Over-bleached or brassy hair
Blonde hair is stunning, but when it turns brassy or fried from over-bleaching, it can drag down your overall vibe. Healthy, shiny hair always looks more put-together regardless of color.
Pro Tip: Use purple shampoo to counteract brassiness and prioritize deep conditioning treatments. Talk to your stylist about dimensional tones like balayage to keep blonde shades fresh and natural.
13. Going overboard with oversized pieces
Oversized fashion is undeniably trendy, but there’s a fine line between slouchy chic and looking like you’re swimming in fabric. Balance is everything.
Pro Tip: Pair one oversized piece with a more fitted element. For example, if you’re wearing a boxy blazer, pair it with skinny jeans or tailored trousers for balance.
Or find styling hacks to create waist definition with either side/front tucks or belts.
14. Overdone, stiff eyebrows
Raise your hand if you’ve seen brows that look like they were drawn on with a Sharpie ✋. Whether it’s blocky Instagram brows or applying too much pomade, exaggerated, overly filled-in brows can be a major distraction.
Instead, aim for a soft, feathered look that uses light strokes to mimic real hair.
If you’re guilty of “brow overkill,” try using a tinted gel instead of a pencil to lightly fill in sparse areas and hold hairs in place. Think groomed, not glued.
15. Mixing loud prints with shiny fabrics
Pattern mixing can be chic when done right. But pair animal print with sequins, and suddenly it’s sensory overload. Mixing too many bold elements will leave your look feeling chaotic rather than chic.
- When wearing a statement print, keep the rest of your outfit simple and neutral. For example, pair leopard print with solid black or earth tones to keep it balanced, rather than red trousers.
- If you must mix prints, stick to the same color family or pair a bold print with a smaller, more subtle one.
16. Wrinkled or pilled clothes
I cannot stress this enough (only because i’m guilty as charged) but trust me when i say, no one notices high-quality pieces if they’re covered in wrinkles or pesky pills. It’s one of the fastest ways to cheapen your look, even in designer attire.
So, iron or steam your clothes before wearing them, and invest in a fabric shaver to keep your wardrobe fresh and polished.
17. Distracting or childish phone cases
Your phone is basically an accessory these days, and a bling-covered or overly cartoonish case can take your whole look in a less-than-adult direction. Save the unicorns for your niece.
18. Dirty or worn-out shoes
You can wear the most luxurious outfit, but if your shoes are scuffed, dirty, or visibly worn, it instantly drags down your whole look. Shoes are truly the foundation of a polished appearance.
Invest time in shoe care! Wipe down your shoes regularly, use a magic eraser on scuffs, and replace worn-out soles when needed. Have a holy grail pair? Keep them in rotation with others to avoid over-wearing. Affordable doesn’t have to mean sloppy!
Related articles to things that make you look cheap
- 12 Easiest Style Tips Pinterest Girls Swear By (And Lowkey Gatekeep)
- 14 Serious Style Mistakes That Make You Look Older Instantly (and How to Fix Them!)
- 14 Things Rich Women Never Wear… Like, Ever (And You Shouldn’t Either, Babe)
- How To Dress Like Old Money? 14 Stellar Tips, Outfits & Old Money Styles
