Shopping

50 Common Mistakes That Make You Look Cringe & What To Do Instead

Picks to look snatched from head to toe.

by Jessica Booth
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When it comes to looking polished and put together, you’ll want to avoid falling into common style and beauty mistakes that can make you look less than chic and a lot more cringe. Dodging them doesn’t have to be hard — from avoiding smudged makeup to rough nails to too-loose clothing, the below items make it so easy to fix these slip-ups. Incorporate your favorites daily to maintain a style that’s just as effortless as it looks.

1

Mistake: Wrinkled, Less-Than-Fresh Clothing

Fix: Scented Spray That Releases Wrinkles Effortlessly

This wrinkle releaser spray is essential for the days you don’t have the time to lay out your clothes and iron or steam them. It’s so simple to use: Just spray your wrinkled clothes, tug them gently, then hang to dry for a few minutes. Wrinkles will be released and the clothing will instantly look (and smell) muchmore polished.

2

Mistake: Smudged Nail Polish

Fix: Top Coat That Erases Mistakes

No matter how pretty the color might be, nail polish that is obviously smudged is going to look messy. This top coat offers a quick fix without the need to redo your nails completely. The blurring formula instantly erases smudges, dents, and nicks in your polish, leaving behind a smooth finish that looks much better.

3

Mistake: Shoes Covered In Dirt & Scuffs

Fix: A Cleaning Kit To Get Nearly Any Shoe Looking Like New

All shoes can start to look filthy after just a few wears, so it’s important to stay on top of cleaning them. This shoe cleaner kit makes it easy to establish a little routine to keep your shoes looking like brand new for as long as possible. It comes with a cleaning concentrate that works on almost any type of material, as well as a brush to scrub away every last bit of grime.

4

Mistake: Cracked, Dry Heels

Fix: Repairing Gel Heel Sleeves That Deeply Hydrate

These heel socks are the perfect option for callus maintenance in between pedicures. The heels are infused with a deeply hydrating gel that leaves your feet feeling so much softer and looking so much less dry and cracked. They slip on easily and can be worn while you’re sleeping, thanks to the comfortable design that doesn’t go over your entire foot. They’re also washable and reusable.

5

Mistake: Hat Head Hair

Fix: A Satin-Lined Beanie To Reduce Frizz

Sure, beanies keep you warm and cozy on cold days, but pulling one off often results in a mess of frizz and tangles that has ruined your blowout. This satin-lined beanie is a game-changer, with a soft and silky lining made to prevent frizz and knots by creating less static. And, of course, it’s still ultra warm.

  • Available colors: 15

6

Mistake: Rings That Are Too Loose

Fix: Adjusters To Help Rings Fit Perfectly

Don’t risk wearing an oversize ring, especially if it’s special to you. They can easily slip off your finger and get lost, but also look sloppy on your hand. These ring size adjusters offer a quick fix that doesn’t involve seeing a jeweler. The guards are easily twisted on to fill the space between the ring and your finger, allowing for a snug fit that looks and feels a lot better.

7

Mistake: Makeup That Fades By Lunchtime

Fix: Grippy Makeup Primer For A Long-Lasting Look

Without the right base, your makeup can start to fade or smudge after just a few hours. This popular makeup primer offers a strong grip for your look without leaving skin feeling dry. It helps your makeup to blend seamlessly and doesn’t leave behind a white cast. “Absolutely love this primer!” one shopper wrote. “Helps hold makeup over my acne moisturizer. Works well with foundation and powder over it for a more flawless look.”

8

Mistake: Hair-Tie Creases In Your Hair

Fix: Slim Satin Scrunchies Made Not To Crease Or Damage

If you haven’t already made the switch to silky hair ties, consider this your sign to do so. These satin scrunchies are revolutionary. They offer just as much hold as your typical hair tie, but the soft satin fabric is gentle on hair, helping cut down on breakage and leaving behind much less of a crease, if any at all. This set comes in six different neutral shades.

9

Mistake: Dry, Chapped Lips

Fix: Nourishing Lip Oil With A Subtle Tint

Sometimes lip balm just doesn’t cut it. This lip oil is so hydrating and can really help get rid of that dry, chapped feeling, thanks to moisturizing ingredients like apple seed oil. Available in a variety of subtle tints, it leaves lips looking glossy and plump, and stays for hours. “What I love the most is that even after the oil wears off, the color stays on my lips practically all day,” one shopper raved. “ It leaves a natural, long-lasting tint that looks so pretty without even trying.”

  • Available colors: 13

10

Mistake: Dull-Looking Smile

Fix: A Whitening Pen To Brighten Up Teeth

Annoying white strips that cost a lot and feel uncomfortable to wear? We don’t know her! This teeth whitening pen is so much easier to use and is designed to get the job done just as well. The hydrogen peroxide whitening gel works fast to brighten teeth and remove staining — just brush it on, let it sit for about 60 seconds, and go.

11

Mistake: Faded Lip Liner

Fix: Peel-Off Lip Liner Stain That Withstands Almost Anything

If you find that your lip liner is wearing off after just a few hours, try this peel-off lip stain. It’s oddly satisfying to use and provides a much longer wearing effect. It’s also designed to be hydrating, made with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that won’t make your lips feel dry.

  • Available colors: 13

12

Mistake: Shoes Ruined By Wet Weather

Fix: Spray That Makes Almost Any Shoes Waterproof

Water stains can ruin your favorite pair of shoes, so before stepping out, treat them with this shoe protector spray. It’s formulated to make them ultra water-repellant and can be used on a variety of materials, including suede, nubuck, canvas, nylon, and leather. It takes seconds to apply, dries quickly and invisibly, and won’t leave behind any sheen or residue.

13

Mistake: Flyaways Taking Over Your Hairstyle

Fix: A Taming Wand To Lock Stray Hairs In Place

Uncontrollable flyaways can ruin the vibe of an otherwise perfect slicked-back hairstyle, which is where this taming wand comes in. The spoolie brush makes it look like a mascara wand, and it’s key to locking stray hairs in place with precision and ease. It features a wax-free formula that doesn’t feel sticky or look too shiny, and can easily be carried around for touch-ups throughout the day (though it does boast a 24-hour hold).

14

Mistake: Unwanted Facial Shine

Fix: Powder That Controls Shine & Blurs Your Complexion

Prevent unwanted sheen on your face with a few pats of this blurring powder. It absorbs oil and excess makeup, with a blurring effect that leaves your skin looking smooth and matte. You can keep this compact with you at all times and use the gentle puff any time of day — it won’t mess with your makeup and has a handy little mirror inside too.

15

Mistake: Skipping Ironing

Fix: A Compact Steam Cleaner To Press Things Fast

Easy to use and small enough to toss in your suitcase, this clothing steamer is ideal for smoothing out your clothes no matter where you are. It’s racked up more than 81,000 five-star ratings because of its lightweight feel and strong, penetrating steam that erases wrinkles. Other convenient features, like a 15-minute run time and 8-foot cord, also make it stand out.

16

Mistake: Tangled Necklace Stack

Fix: Layering Clasps That Prevent Knots

Layering a few of your favorite necklaces is an effortlessly chic look. But if they tangle together to create one jumbled mess, they suddenly look a lot less cool. Prevent that from happening with these layering clasps, which allow you to wear two to three necklaces at a time, separating the chains so they don’t become one giant knot.

17

Mistake: Food Stuck In Your Teeth

Fix: Mini Toothbrush Flossers For On-The-Go Oral Care

These mini travel toothbrushes are perfect for keeping on hand for whenever your mouth needs a little refresh. Each toothbrush is individually wrapped and pre-packed with toothpaste, so you just need to start brushing for a cleaner feel (no rinsing necessary). The bottom end is a floss pick for extra cleaning power.

18

Mistake: A Purse Filled With Lint & Dirt

Fix: A Reusable Sticky Ball That Cleans The Nooks & Crannies

Take a good look at the bottom of your handbag – chances are it’s kind of gross. The bottom and pockets of your bag attract dust, grime, and lint, and this sticky ball is the easiest way to keep things clean. Simply toss it in your bag and go. As it naturally moves around, it collects all of that icky stuff at the bottom, and once you think it’s full, you just rinse it in water then put it back in.

19

Mistake: Makeup Smudges Ruining Your Look

Fix: Cotton Swabs With Makeup Remover To Quickly Fix Mistakes

An unfortunate mascara or eyeliner smudge can really put a damper on your whole makeup look. These special cotton swabs offer a quick fix that doesn’t require you to start over. Each is filled with makeup remover and the small swab tip allows for precise cleanup, even in tricky spots. The set comes in a travel-friendly case so you can always have them on hand.

20

Mistake: Jeans That Look Too Loose

Fix: Button Pins To Adjust Oversize Waistbands

There are baggy jeans (cute) and then there are jeans that don’t fit (not as cute). If yours are falling down a little too much, this set of button pins is an easy and inexpensive way to alter them. These can be used to replace old buttons or to make the waistband of your pants tighter. They come with everything you need, are wildly simple to use, and are available in a few different shades.

21

Mistake: Eyeshadow Fallout All Over

Fix: An Eyeshadow Stick For Easy, Precise Application

Master your eye makeup look with this popular cream-to-powder eyeshadow stick. It offers easy, mess-free application, with a crayon-like feel that’s easy to handle. The soft formula is blendable, buildable, and lightweight, and there’s a slight shimmer that adds gorgeous dimension.

  • Available colors: 38

22

Mistake: Flat Hair At The Roots

Fix: Easy Volumizing Clips For Maximum Lift

Whether you’re blow-drying, diffusing, or air-drying your hair, it can be tough to create lots of volume at the roots. These hair volume clips are ideal for those who like a little extra boost, offering serious lift at the root. Perforations provide ventilation that make these safe to wear when heat styling, and they won’t create any obvious lines.

23

Mistake: Dry, Ragged Cuticles

Fix: Flower-Infused Cuticle Oil For Easy Hydration

Dry, peeling cuticles can easily ruin the look of your otherwise perfect manicure, making your hands look ragged and in need of care. This floral cuticle oil is a breeze to use — just brush it on — and it hydrates your cuticles so they look smooth, nourished, and cared for. It has a pleasant scent and the bottle is pretty enough to leave on display.

24

Mistake: Deodorant Stains

Fix: Sponges That Wipe Off Pesky White Streaks

Nothing is worse than picking the perfect outfit, only to realize you managed to get streaks of white deodorant all over it. These deodorant sponges are the easiest way to remove those rather than changing yet again. The loofah-like material makes deodorant stains disappear after just a little rubbing — for stubborn stains, add water — all without damaging your clothing.

25

Mistake: Bunched-Up Layers

Fix: Detachable Collars For A Sleek Layered Look

It might sound weird, but opting for a faux collar, like in this set of two, is a really cute way to get that stylish layered look without the bulk of actually wearing layers. “Love these. Takes any sweater/sweat shirt to a new level,” one shopper affirmed. “Do not have the bulkiness of having to fight with an actual shirt underneath. Well worth the money.”

  • Available sizes: 2
  • Available colors: 7 multi-packs

26

Mistake: Clashing Bracelets

Fix: Matching Bracelets That Make A Perfect Stack

There’s nothing wrong with mixing and matching bracelets, but they can clash and not look as chic as you may want. A bracelet stack, however, gives effortlessly polished vibes. These six gold-plated bracelets are dainty, slim, and lightweight. Each one features a different texture and pattern, and they look beautiful when worn together — and like they cost a lot more than you actually spent.

27

Mistake: Pilled, Fuzzy Clothing

Fix: A Fabric Shaver That Erases Pills & Lint

Knit clothes, like sweaters and coats, can easily pill and start to look old after just a few wears. One of the best ways to combat this is with a fabric shaver like this. It shaves off pills and excess lint, leaving your sweaters looking fresh and new. The honeycomb mesh works with almost any fabric and the removable container allows for easy cleaning.

28

Mistake: Bulky, Poking Hair Claws

Fix: Flat Hair Claws For All-Day Comfort

As convenient as claw clips are, they’re also bulky and can be super uncomfortable (it’s impossible to lean your head back anywhere). These flat clips are an excellent alternative. They look like large barrettes and neatly hold hair like a claw clip, just with a more practical design that gives you more freedom of movement.

  • Available colors: 23 multipacks

29

Mistake: Untamed Eyebrows

Fix: A Complete Shaping Kit For Perfect Brows

Keep your brows in perfect condition with this complete eyebrow set. It comes with four different tweezers: a slant tip for precision tweezing, a closed clamp for removal and shaping, a pointed tip for plucking ingrown hairs, and a flat tip for applying hairs or lashes. There’s a set of sharp trimming scissors and a double-ended spoolie brush for shaping.

30

Mistake: Splashing Water Everywhere Washing Your Face

Fix: Microfiber Wristbands That Absorb Water Fast

Washing your face doesn’t have to be messy — wear these microfiber wristbands. They’re made of an absorbent towel-like material that sops up water before it can trickle down your arms. They’re soft and comfortable to wear, and they can be thrown in the washing machine for cleaning.

31

Mistake: Rough, Uneven Nails

Fix: A Glass Nail File That Also Buffs

The smooth surface of this glass nail file leads to not just upgraded filing, but it also works as a buffer to leave a pretty shine behind. It’s more durable and long-lasting than a traditional emery board — this lasts for years on end. “Rubbing over entire nail with ridges not only made ridges disappear, but the shine looks as if it were polished with a clear coating,” one shopper wrote. “The smoothness on nail edges feels finer and better quality than other nail files used.”

32

Mistake: Noticeable Root Growth

Fix: Long-Lasting Touch-Up Powder To Conceal Roots

Keep this root powder on hand for times when you can’t get to the hair salon for coloring. The powder offers instant coverage and excellent touch-ups, concealing differently colored roots with ease. It applies with the convenient powder puff, and goes on without leaving behind any residue or heaviness.

  • Available colors: 18

33

Mistake: Obvious Underwear Lines

Fix: Seamless Panties That Are Basically Invisible

Obvious panty lines always feel a little awkward, not to mention can feel uncomfortable. This seamless underwear wears like it’s practically invisible, and is actually comfy enough to wear all day long. Each pair is super lightweight and breathable, with a stretchy feel and unlined look designed not to show through even the tightest leggings.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 16 multi-packs

34

Mistake: Streaky Self Tanner

Fix: An Extra-Large Buffing Brush For A Smooth Self Tan

Anyone who applies self-tanner will appreciate this large body brush. Super soft, dense bristles feel amazing on your skin and also help spread self-tanner evenly. The brush head is wide and large for full coverage on all areas of body, and the nonslip handle is a breeze to hold.

35

Mistake: Wearing Athletic Shoes All The Time

Fix: Elevated Fashion Sneakers That Go With Anything

Your clunky gym sneakers are cute until you pair them with the wrong jeans (or skirt) and look like a relic from the ‘90s, and not in a good way. These stylish sneakers are perfect to have on hand because they’re just as comfy as your tennies but look a lot more elevated. You can easily pair these with trousers or even dresses, or use them to dial up casual jeans or sweats.

  • Available sizes: 6—11
  • Available colors: 16

36

Mistake: Dinky Scarf

Fix: A Versatile Blanket Scarf To Keep You So Cozy

The key to making a bulky winter coat look chic is layering with some accessories, like this cozy blanket scarf. It’s big, it’s comfy, and it looks so adorable. It’s also large enough that it can double as a shawl to wrap around yourself when you don’t need to go full coat.

  • Available colors: 41

37

Mistake: Mismatched Lounge Clothes

Fix: A Comfortable Set That Looks Put Together

The key to making your comfiest sweats look chic is to wear a matching set like this one. The solid colors and simple silhouette make this look polished and effortless to style. It’s made of a rayon blend that’s incredibly soft and lightweight, and the shirt can easily be paired with jeans to dress it up a bit too.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 15

38

Mistake: Forgetting An Umbrella

Fix: A Mini Umbrella To Always Keep Handy In Your Purse

Traveling or even just commuting with a full-sized umbrella can be annoying as they always seem to get in the way. This mini umbrella is perfect for taking on the go. It folds up into a compact size about the same size as a water bottle, then expands to a normal-sized umbrella. It even comes with a case to keep it enclosed.

  • Available colors: 28

39

Mistake: Visible Bra Straps

Fix: Adjusters To Conceal Straps For Various Tops

Visible bra straps aren’t always the look you’re going for. Opt for these thin bra straps and clips to make any bra work with almost any top. You can replace wider straps with these subtle ones, then clip them together for a racerback look that works well with tanks and similar tops. They are super easy to use and adjust.

40

Mistake: Letting Blackheads Linger

Fix: A Multi-Mode Face Scrubber For Deep Cleaning

Give your face a much-needed deep cleanse with this scrubbing brush. Also dubbed a “skin spatula,” this features four different modes to give you a nice at-home facial. As you run it over your face, the brush turns water from liquid to steam to help clean out pores, remove blackheads, and leave you feeling so relaxed. It requires only a quick charge (less than two hours) and is compact and lightweight.

41

Mistake: Straining Eyes From Too Much Screen Time

Fix: Trendy Glasses To Mitigate Blue Light

It should come as no surprise that staring at a computer or phone screen all day long is not great for your eyes. To keep the strain to a minimum, wear these blue light glasses. They have UV400 protection to help block out that harmful blue light and don’t require a prescription. The frames are lightweight for comfort and slightly oversize so that they look cute too.

42

Mistake: Bunchy Socks Poking Out Of Your Shoes

Fix: No-Show Socks For Undetectable Comfort

For flats, loafers, low-cut sneakers, and similar picks, opt for these no-show socks. They are super thin and lightweight, and structured just enough that they won’t roll down or easily slip off of your heel. Plus, between the neutral shades and nylon fabric, no one will ever know you’re even wearing them.

  • Available sizes: 5-9 and 9-12
  • Available colors: 3 multi-packs

43

Mistake: Scratched-Up Sunglasses

Fix: A Hardshell Case To Protect Frames & Lenses

Stop tossing your sunglasses into your handbag and hoping for the best. This hardshell case is superb for keeping your favorite sunnies from getting scratched or broken. It offers solid protection and, as a bonus, can hold two pairs of sunglasses depending on style. It’s perfect for traveling and looks surprisingly chic.

  • Available colors: 12

44

Mistake: Lint-Covered Clothing

Fix: A Tiny Reusable Lint Roller That Never Loses Stickiness

This reusable lint roller is so good you may never want to use a traditional lint roller again. The sticky gel picks up every stray pet hair, dust, and piece of lint on your clothing, leaving your fit fuzz-free and much cleaner-looking. It’s lightweight and small, so it’s easy to take anywhere, and it’s reusable — just rinse it clean rather than ripping off and tossing away an adhesive strip.

45

Mistake: Lackluster Lashes

Fix: A Heated Eyelash Curler For All-Day Volume

Curling your eyelashes is a small task that can make a major difference for your makeup look. This heated eyelash curler distributes gentle heat evenly to curl lashes and help them stay in place for hours at a time. It’s comfortable to hold and use, and is designed not to pinch. It shuts down automatically after a few minutes and has a memory function, too.

46

Mistake: Wearing A Ratty Old Sweatshirt

Fix: A Slouchy Hoodie That’s Cool & Comfortable

The best loungewear is both comfy and cute, so even if you feel like you’re wearing pajamas, you still look put together. The key is picking high-quality pieces, like this oversize sweatshirt. The minimalist design keeps it simple and stylish, while the super soft cotton blend makes it extra cozy. It’s already a little slouchy, so keep that in mind when picking a size.

  • Available sizes: 3X-Small — 5X-Large
  • Available colors: 38

47

Mistake: Always Dropping Your Phone

Fix: A Phone Case With A Built-In Finger Strap & Kickstand

This phone case is the best way to ensure that your phone never slips out of your hands. The built-in finger loop on the back is such a game changer when it comes to securely holding your device as you take pictures or scroll. That same loop doubles as a kickstand you can use for easier, hands-free scrolling or streaming. There are several cute colors and design options, and it’s available for a variety of iPhone models.

  • Available colors: 32

48

Mistake: Chipped, Old Manicure

Fix: Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips For A Salon Look At Home

If you don’t want to make a trip to the salon, give these semi-cured gel nail strips a try. Easy enough to do at home (just grab a lamp), they don’t require you to work with actual nail polish, and promise to last for weeks. “Honestly, I didn’t believe the good reviews,” one shopper wrote. “But they were quick and easy to do – no mess like polish – they look great, and I’m on day 3 with no chips or lifting at all so far.”

  • Available colors: 32

49

Mistake: Wearing A Regular Bra With Open Tops

Fix: A Lace Bralette For Stylish Support

When wearing tops meant to showcase a little underwear, skip the old underwire bra and opt for something like this lace bralette. It looks much cuter peeking out from beneath your shirt, like it’s actually part of your outfit, and is comfy to boot. The straps are adjustable, removable pads inside offer extra support, and there’s no painful underwire to deal with.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 15

50

Mistake: Apple Watch Pulling Focus From Your Outfit

Fix: A Luxe Band For A Stylish & Seamless Look

If you’re still wearing the clunky band that came with your Apple Watch, it’s time for an upgrade. This Apple Watch band is compatible with almost any model and comes in a variety of colors, from subtle and stylish tortoise shell to bright and bold shades. It’s so easy to add and remove when you want a change, and it turns your watch into an elevated accessory.

  • Available sizes: 2 options
  • Available colors: 43