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55 Bougie Ways To Upgrade Your Look That Are So Damn Cheap

Low-effort ways to look pulled together.

Written by Tanisha Pina
Bustle/Amazon
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Looking more put-together doesn’t have to mean overhauling your closet or spending a ton of money. Often, it’s the smaller swaps, smarter tools, and subtle styling tweaks that make the biggest difference. From beauty shortcuts that save time to accessories and clothing hacks that quietly elevate everyday outfits, these finds are all about working smarter, not harder. Each item on this list earns its place by making daily routines easier, outfits cleaner, or details more polished. Think of these as low-effort upgrades that help everything else you already own look better.

1Trade Your Workout Leggings For A Faux-Leather Pair

When you want to look more put-together without giving up comfort, swapping athletic leggings for a faux-leather pair makes a noticeable difference. These faux-leather leggings have the stretch and breathability of everyday leggings but add a sleek finish that works with sweaters, blazers, or oversized button-downs. A wide, high waistband stays in place without digging in, and the fabric is opaque enough to feel secure all day long. It’s an easy way to make a casual outfit feel more polished, without feeling totally overdressed.

  • Available colors: 7
  • Available sizes: X-Small Short—XX-Large Short

2Slick Your Hair Back With A Non-Drying Wax Stick

A slicked-back style doesn’t have to mean stiff or crunchy hair. A wax stick, like this one, offers flexible hold that smooths flyaways while still letting hair move naturally, which makes it especially useful for buns, ponytails, or center-part styles. The solid stick format keeps application controlled and mess-free, so you’re not overloading product at the roots. Because the finish stays soft, it’s easy to adjust or rework your style later in the day.

3Layer Slouchy Socks Into Your Everyday Athleisure Looks

Sometimes, a small styling detail is all it takes to make athleisure wear look all the more deliberate. Slouchy socks add a relaxed, slightly retro layer that works with leggings, bike shorts, or wide-leg sweats. The cotton-forward fabric feels soft but structured enough to stay put without constant adjusting. Keeping a few pairs on hand makes it easy to pull together a casual outfit without thinking too hard about it.

  • Available colors: 3
  • Available sizes: One Size

4Replace Basic Elastics With Hair Ties That Double As Bracelets

If you’re already wearing a hair tie on your wrist, it might as well look like jewelry. These bracelet-style hair ties double as stackable accessories while still offering a secure hold for ponytails and buns. They’re designed to work across different hair types without pulling or leaving dents behind. It’s a small swap that keeps essentials within reach while making your wrist look styled instead of purely practical.

5Separate Your Lashes With A Comb After Applying Mascara

Even a great mascara can leave lashes looking a little clumpy, which is where this simple tool comes in handy. The eyelash comb helps separate lashes after applying mascara, catching excess product before it dries. The fine teeth glide through gently, creating a more defined, fanned-out look without tugging. Because it’s lightweight and easy to clean, it’s useful both at home and for quick touch-ups on the go.

6Eliminate Panty Lines With A Set Of Seamless Underwear

If panty lines are distracting you from an otherwise flawless outfit, seamless underwear is a quiet fix that makes a big difference. A low-rise, raw-edge thong like this disappears under everything from fitted trousers to slip skirts. The stretchy, quick-drying fabric feels lightweight and breathable, which makes it easy to wear all day without thinking about it. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes upgrades that instantly makes clothes look smoother.

  • Available colors: 7 pack options
  • Available sizes: X-Small—XX-Large

7Brighten Your Nails Instantly With A Barely-There Polish

When you want your nails to look polished without committing to a full manicure, a sheer nail concealer is a smart shortcut. This kind of milky, light-reflecting formula softens discoloration and gives nails a clean, healthy-looking glow in one or two coats. It’s especially useful for low-maintenance days when chipped polish isn’t worth the effort. Think of it as a filter for your nails that still looks natural up close.

  • Available shades: 3

8Elevate Everyday Outfits With A Bracelet-Style Watch

A jewelry-inspired watch adds just enough structure to make an outfit feel finished. With a slim case and bracelet-style band, this type of watch reads more like an accessory than a functional add-on. It pairs easily with rings and bracelets without looking bulky or sporty. The result is a subtle upgrade that makes even simple outfits feel more intentional.

  • Available styles: 16

9Use A Hot Air Brush To Get A Salon-Worthy Blowout At Home

A hot air brush can seriously streamline your getting-ready routine. Instead of juggling a dryer and round brush, this all-in-one tool smooths and styles hair in one step, cutting down on time and heat exposure. The oval barrel shape helps add lift at the roots while softening ends, so hair looks polished but not overly styled. It’s especially helpful on days when you want a blowout look without the salon-level effort.

10Streamline Your Outfits By Swapping T-Shirts For Bodysuits

Swapping a basic T-shirt for a chic bodysuit is one of the easiest ways to make an outfit look cleaner. A long-sleeve, crewneck style like this creates a smooth, tucked-in look that stays put under jeans, trousers, or skirts. The double-layered fabric offers light support without feeling restrictive, and the snap closure keeps things practical. It’s a simple change that makes layering feel sharper and more streamlined.

  • Available colors: 10
  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

11Support Tricky Necklines With A No-Show Stick-On Bra

When an outfit doesn’t work with traditional straps, stick-on bra inserts offer a discreet workaround. These adhesive pads provide light lift and shaping without wires or bands, making them especially useful under low-cut tops, swimwear, or open-back styles. Because they adhere both to skin and fabric, they’re designed to stay put without constant adjusting. They’re also reusable, which makes them a practical option to keep on hand for tricky outfits.

  • Available colors: 2
  • Available sizes: Medium—X-Large

12Invest In A Pair Of Small, Go-With-Everything Hoops

A simple pair of huggie-style earrings is one of those accessories that quietly elevates almost any look. Small enough for everyday wear but polished enough to work at night, this style pairs just as easily with jeans and a sweater as it does with a dress. The subtle sparkle adds interest without feeling flashy, which makes them easy to leave in all day long. They’re also a good option for second piercings if you like a layered ear look.

13Fake A Layered Look With A Detachable Collar

Layering a detachable collar under knitwear creates the look of a button-down without the added warmth or bunching. This half-collar style slips on easily and stays in place, giving sweaters, dresses, or jackets a more tailored feel. It’s especially helpful for work outfits or days when you want to look sharper with minimal effort. Because it’s lightweight and breathable, it adds structure without feeling restrictive.

  • Available colors: 7
  • Available sizes: Medium — Large

14Protect Styled Hair By Wearing A Satin Bonnet To Bed

A satin bonnet helps minimize friction while you sleep, which can make a noticeable difference in how your hair looks the next morning. The smooth lining is designed to help maintain styles and reduce tangling, especially for textured or braided hair. An adjustable band helps keep it secure without feeling too tight overnight. It’s a low-effort habit that supports easier styling the next day.

  • Available colors: 16

15Elevate Your Loafers & Mary-Janes With Frilly Socks

Ruffled ankle socks add a playful contrast to structured shoes like Mary Janes or loafers. The soft, breathable fabric makes them comfortable enough for all-day wear, while the frilled edge adds a deliberate styling detail. They can be worn scrunched, folded, or pulled up depending on the look you’re going for. It’s a small addition that makes outfits feel more styled instead of purely functional.

  • Available colors: 10
  • Available sizes: 5 — 9

16Add Warmth Without Bulk By Layering A Quilted Vest

When a full coat feels like too much, a quilted vest is an easy middle ground. Worn over sweaters or hoodies, it adds warmth while still letting your outfit feel polished and styled. The lightly padded design makes it comfortable for everyday wear, whether you’re running errands or heading out for a casual weekend plan. The result? Extra warmth without sacrificing shape or ease.

  • Available colors: 17
  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

17Prep Your Lips Before Lipstick By Gently Exfoliating Them

Dry texture can make even the best lipstick look uneven, which is why exfoliating first helps. Hanalei’s vegan sugar lip scrub gently buffs away dry skin while hydrating at the same time, leaving lips feeling softer and smoother. The sugar-based formula makes it easy to control how much exfoliation you want without feeling harsh. It’s a quick step that noticeably improves how lip products sit and wear.

18Wear A Seamless, Wire-Free Bra To Prevent Visible Lines Under Your Shirt

When comfort matters just as much as how your top looks, a seamless, wireless bra is a reliable go-to. This Calvin Klein wire-free triangle bra offers light shaping and support without seams or hardware that show through fabric. The soft, smooth material makes it easy to wear all day long, whether you’re lounging or heading out. The soft, flexible fit makes it easy to forget you’re even wearing it.

  • Available colors: 7
  • Available sizes: X-Small—X-Large

19Dress Up Braided Styles With Metallic Hair Charms

A few small details can completely change the look of a braided style. These metallic hair charms clip onto braids or locs to add shine and personality without requiring any special technique. Because the pieces are lightweight and reusable, it’s easy to mix, match, and reposition them depending on the look you want. They’re a simple way to make protective or braided styles feel more intentional.

  • Available colors: 2

20Top Off Cozy Outfits With A Plush Statement Hat

Cold-weather accessories don’t have to feel purely practical. A faux-fur bucket hat adds warmth while doubling as a statement piece, instantly elevating simple coats and knits. The structured brim helps it hold its shape, while the plush texture offers visual interest. It’s an easy way to make winter outfits feel styled instead of layered purely for function.

  • Available colors: 22

21Bring Worn Sneakers Back To Life With A Quick Clean

A quick refresh can make sneakers look far more put-together than their mileage suggests. These disposable sneaker cleaning sponges are designed to lift dirt and scuffs from smooth uppers and white soles using just a bit of water. Because they’re compact and portable, they’re especially handy for travel, the office, or gym bags. It’s a low-effort fix that helps extend the life of shoes you already love.

22Swap Your Jeans For A Just-As-Versatile Satin Skirt

Changing the fabric of a familiar outfit can make it feel completely different. A satin midi skirt brings softness and movement while still styling easily with knits, tees, and button-downs. The high waist and A-line shape make it adaptable for both casual and dressed-up plans. With so many colors and prints available, it’s easy to find one that fits seamlessly into your existing wardrobe.

  • Available colors: 29
  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large

23Douse Hair In This Smoothing & Shine-Enhancing Treatment Before Blowing It Out

What you apply before styling can matter just as much as the tool itself. This heat-activated hair treatment is designed to help reduce frizz and smooth hair once heat is applied, which makes blow-drying feel more predictable, especially in humid conditions. The lightweight formula works across hair types without weighing strands down or leaving residue behind. It also helps enhance shine, so hair looks sleeker and more polished after styling.

24Invest In A Pair Of Polished-Looking Rain Boots

Rain gear doesn’t have to feel like an afterthought. These ankle-length rain boots offer waterproof protection while still working with everyday outfits, from jeans to dresses. The pull-on style makes them easy to wear on busy mornings, and the low profile keeps them from feeling clunky. They’re practical enough for bad weather but neutral enough to wear even when the forecast clears up.

  • Available colors: 16
  • Available sizes: 5 — 12

25Keep A Flawless Manicure On Hand With A Set Of Press-On Gels

Having a set of press-on gel nails ready makes last-minute plans much easier. These are designed to feel flexible and lightweight, so they sit comfortably on the nail bed instead of feeling stiff. With multiple sizes included, it’s easier to get a custom fit that looks natural. They’re a convenient option whether you want a manicure for a few days.

  • Available styles: 41

26Refresh Your Underwear Drawer With A Set Of Breathable Cotton Basics

An underwear refresh can make daily dressing feel noticeably better. Breathable cotton bikini briefs, like these, offer full coverage while still sitting comfortably at the low hip, making them easy to wear under everything from jeans to dresses. The soft cotton blend feels lightweight against the skin, while added stretch helps prevent digging or bunching throughout the day. Buying them in a multipack makes it easy to stock up on reliable pairs you’ll actually reach for.

  • Available colors: 6
  • Available sizes: XX-Small—6X

27Enhance The Tone Of Your Hair With This Color-Depositing Conditioner

When your hair color starts to look dull, a color-depositing conditioner offers a low-commitment refresh. This type of formula cleanses and conditions while depositing semi-permanent pigment, helping to revive your color without the dryness (or fussiness) of traditional dyes. Because it replaces a regular conditioner in your routine, it adds color while keeping hair soft and manageable, too. It’s an easy way to extend your color between appointments without extra steps.

  • Available shades: 12

28Get The Draped-Sweater Look Without Extra Bulk

For days when you want the look of a sweater without committing to sleeves, this knit shawl is an easy solution. It can be draped over the shoulders, knotted in front, or tied around the waist depending on how you want to style it. The lightweight fabric makes it especially useful in air-conditioned spaces or transitional weather. It works as a flexible layer that adds warmth while still keeping outfits light and easy.

  • Available colors: 12

29Make Older Knits Look New Again With A Fabric Shaver

Pilling can make otherwise great sweaters look worn faster than they should. A fabric shaver gently removes fuzz and lint from knits, coats, and even upholstery without damaging the material. The protective mesh helps keep blades from catching delicate fabrics while lifting pills efficiently. Used occasionally, it helps keep everyday pieces looking better maintained over time.

30Bring Back Shine To Everyday Jewelry In Minutes

Daily wear can dull even your favorite pieces over time. A pen-style diamond cleaner makes it easy to remove buildup from oils and lotions, especially around prongs and settings where grime hides. The brush applicator helps target small crevices without needing a full soak or trip to the jeweler. It’s especially useful to keep on hand for quick touch-ups before heading out.

31Reduce Morning Puffiness With A Chilled Ice Roller

Cold therapy can make a noticeable difference when skin looks puffy or irritated. An ice roller stored in the freezer helps temporarily reduce swelling while feeling soothing on the face and under-eyes. It’s easy to use in the morning before makeup or after skin care to help everything absorb better. The cooling effect also feels especially nice after long days or a night of poor sleep.

32Upgrade Your Errand-Running Look With A Polished Matching Set

A matching sweatsuit can take a lot of the guesswork out of busy days. This two-piece sweatsuit balances comfort with structure, so it feels just as appropriate for travel or errands as it does for lounging. The wide-leg pants and relaxed zip-up top give it that easy, relaxed feel, while the coordinated look keeps it from reading sloppy. It’s a dependable option for days when you want to be comfortable but still look pulled together.

  • Available colors: 24
  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large

33Switch Up Everyday Makeup Using Colored Mascara

A swipe of colored mascara is an easy way to change up your look without rethinking your entire makeup routine. Shades like green or purple add dimension and contrast, but are still totally wearable — even during the day. The buildable formula helps define lashes evenly, so color enhances rather than overwhelms. It’s a low-effort upgrade that makes simple makeup feel less predictable.

  • Available colors: 10

34Use A Garment Steamer To Eliminate Wrinkles From Your Clothes

Ensure your clothes are never wrinkled before heading out the door with this small-but-mighty garment steamer. Lightweight and compact enough to pack in a carry-on, it produces 15 minutes of continuous mist at a time — that’s enough to handle multiple outfits.

35Revive Tired Eyes With A Few Minutes Of Extra Hydration

When your under-eyes look visibly fatigued after a long night or early morning, gel patches can make a noticeable difference. They’re designed to hydrate and soothe the delicate skin under your eyes, helping everything look a little more awake and refreshed. Letting them sit for a few minutes while you get ready can help reduce puffiness and dryness. They’re especially helpful on days when you want concealer to glide on more smoothly.

36Keep Clothes Looking Clean With A Portable Lint Roller

Lint and pet hair have a way of appearing at the worst possible moment. A mini lint roller, like this one, makes it easy to do a quick sweep of coats, sweaters, or pants right before you leave. The sticky sheets pick up hair and debris without pulling at fabric, even on softer knits. Keeping one nearby is a small habit that helps outfits look cleaner and more pulled together.

37Use Purple Toothpaste To Get A Brighter, Whiter Smile

If your teeth tend to look dull even when they’re clean, purple whitening toothpaste offers a surprisingly simple fix. The violet pigment works like color corrector, visually toning down yellow hues so your smile looks brighter right after brushing. It fits easily into your normal routine and doesn’t require changing how or when you brush. Think of it as a quick optical upgrade rather than a long-term whitening commitment.

38Get The Sheer Tights Look Without Freezing

These tights are made to give the illusion of sheer pantyhose while secretly keeping you warm. A pair of soft fleece-lined tights adds insulation on the inside, while the outer layer reads polished and lightweight. They make it much easier to wear skirts and dresses in colder weather without piling on extra layers. The result is a winter-friendly option that still looks dressed up.

  • Available colors: 19
  • Available sizes: X-Small — Large

39Tame Flyaways & Frizz With A Hair Smoothing Wand

Flyaways tend to show up right when you’re trying to look put together. A hair smoothing wand gives you more control than traditional gels, letting you target baby hairs and frizz without weighing everything down. The lightweight formula keeps hair flexible instead of stiff or sticky. It’s especially useful for quick touch-ups on ponytails, part lines, or sleek styles throughout the day.

40Fix A Too-Tight Band With A Bra Extender

Bras aren’t cheap, which makes it frustrating when a good one suddenly feels too tight. This simple and small bra extender clips onto the hooks to give you extra room, helping your bras adapt to things like bloating, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or postpartum changes. Instead of buying new bras for every phase, this lets the ones you already own fit more comfortably for longer. It’s a low-cost fix that maximizes both comfort and your wardrobe budget.

41Refresh Leather Accessories With A Quick Wipe-Down

Leather bags, shoes, and coats tend to show wear faster than we expect, especially when they’re part of your daily rotation. Individually wrapped leather wipes make it easy to clean and condition surfaces in one step, without pulling out a full-on care kit. A quick wipe-down helps revive the finish and keep pieces from looking dull or dried out, especially when they’re in heavy rotation.

42Get A Smoother Base With A Damp Makeup Sponge

Sometimes the difference between “okay makeup” and “really good makeup” is the tool you’re using. A soft, bouncy makeup sponge helps press foundation and concealer into the skin instead of sitting on top of it, which makes coverage look smoother and more natural. Different shapes make it easier to blend around the nose, under the eyes, and along the jawline. The result is makeup that looks more like skin and less like product.

43Dress Up Winter Boots With Some Soft, Cozy Cuffs

Cold-weather outfits can start to feel repetitive, especially when you’re reaching for the same boots every day. These knit boot cuffs add a cozy, styled detail that makes boots look more intentional without adding bulk. They layer easily over jeans, leggings, or tights and peek out just enough to change the look. In the end? This small detail can shift boots from purely practical to thoughtfully styled.

  • Available colors: 14

44Boost Shine At Home With A Glossing Treatment

When hair looks dull or flat, shine is usually what’s missing. An at-home glossing treatment works like a mask, smoothing the hair’s surface so it reflects light more evenly. Used in the shower, it fits into your existing routine without adding extra steps or time. Hair tends to look softer and more polished afterward, even on days you don’t fully style it.

45Elevate Everyday Outfits With A Tennis Necklace

Simple outfits leave more room for accessories to do the work. A tennis necklace adds just enough shine to T-shirts, sweaters, and button-downs without feeling flashy or overdone. The slim line of stones catches the light in a way that feels polished but still wearable every day. Worn alone or layered with other chains, it brings balance to casual looks that could use a little lift. It’s great with crewnecks and knits, where a little sparkle goes a long way.

  • Available styles: 22

46Lock In Under-Eye Concealer With A Light Dusting Of Powder

Anyone who wears under-eye concealer knows how quickly it can start to crease or shift. A finely milled translucent powder helps keep everything in place without making the area look dry or heavy. Laura Mercier’s translucent loose powder is known for setting makeup while still looking natural on skin. Used with a light hand, it helps concealer stay smooth and fresh-looking for longer. A small amount is usually all it takes to make things look perfect.

  • Available shades: 5

47Swap Denim For Wide-Leg Trousers That Feel Polished

When you want an outfit to feel a little more polished without trying harder, swapping your usual bottoms makes a difference. A high-waist pair of wide-leg trousers adds structure while still feeling comfortable enough for everyday wear. The relaxed shape works easily with sweaters, tees, and tucked-in tops, making them flexible for a range of plans. Swapping these in for jeans can make even simple outfits feel more considered.

  • Available colors: 13
  • Available sizes: X-Small Short — 2X

48Add Subtle Length By Placing A Few Lash Clusters

If full strip lashes feel like too much, adding definition in smaller sections can look more natural. Placing a few wispy lash clusters along the outer corners gives subtle length and shape without overpowering the eye. Because you control how many you apply, the effect stays soft and customizable. They’re a great option for enhancing lashes without looking overly done.

  • Available styles: 17

49Pull Looks Together Quickly Using A Statement Headband

When hair isn’t cooperating, a padded headband can make everything feel more intentional. The velvet texture adds softness, while the structured shape helps frame the face and elevate simple hairstyles. Getting a set of six makes it easy to rotate colors depending on your outfit or mood, instead of relying on just one go-to. It’s a practical way to keep a polished option on hand for low-effort days.

  • Available colors: 4

50Lock In Feathery Brows With A Clear Setting Soap

If you like the look of full, brushed-up brows, brow soap makes it much easier to get there. Brushed through the hairs, it adds grip and texture so brows look thicker and more defined without needing much makeup. Because it dries clear, the finish stays natural rather than stiff or shiny. It works just as well on sparse brows as it does on naturally full ones that need a bit of control.

51Define Your Shape With A Slim Waist Belt

Loose dresses and oversized tops can feel unfinished without some definition. A slim waist belt helps cinch things in just enough to change the silhouette without overwhelming the outfit. Worn over knits, dresses, or even blazers, it’s an easy way to make familiar pieces feel more styled. Having a few colors on hand makes it easy to switch things up without rethinking your whole look.

  • Available colors: 9
  • Available sizes: Waist sizes below 37” — Waist sizes below 52”

52Fill In Sparse Brows With A DIY Brow Tint

For anyone tired of filling in their brows every morning, tinting can be a game changer. A brow tint deepens the hairs themselves, which helps brows look fuller and more even with less effort day to day. Because it’s designed for small areas, it’s easy to control and blend with your natural color. The payoff is brows that look more defined even on makeup-free days.

  • Available shades: 4

53Upgrade Your Sleepwear Collection With A Matching Pajama Set

Worn-out sweats get the job done, but a matching pajama set changes the tone of your off-hours in a noticeable way. This set, designed in collaboration with Sofia Grainge, balances comfort with thoughtful details like contrast piping and a relaxed button-front top. It’s easy to wear all evening and still feel presentable the next morning. That kind of versatility makes it a small upgrade that actually gets used.

  • Available colors: 4
  • Available sizes: XX-Small—XX-Large

54Wear An Overnight Mask For Glowy Skin Come Morning

On nights when your skin feels dry, flat, or stressed, reaching for an overnight face mask can make a visible difference by morning. This one leans on bio-collagen and deep hydration to help skin look plumper and more refreshed after you wake up. The gel-style formula absorbs gradually as you sleep, so it doesn’t feel heavy or slippery on your face. It’s especially helpful when your skin needs a reset but you don’t want to add extra steps to your routine.

55Turn Your Bra Into A Racerback To Prevent Visible Straps

Some tops are great in theory but impossible once bra straps get involved. Bra converting clips solve that by pulling straps into a racerback shape, helping them stay hidden under tanks, dresses, and workout tops. The subtle lift also helps straps sit more securely, which can make bras feel more supportive throughout the day. Having a two-pack on hand makes it easy to keep one in your drawer and one in a travel bag for outfit emergencies.