Style
60 Common Mistakes That Make You Look Tacky — & What To Do Instead
Have no fear, your quick fixes are here.

Hair and makeup mistakes are a common part of life. However, you might not even realize there are surprisingly easy fixes out there that can help you avoid any tacky blunders. These solutions will give you an instant confidence boost for not a lot of money. In fact, many of these cost less than $15.
1
Mistake: Letting Long Nails Get In The Way Of Adding Jewelry
Solution: Magnetic Clasps That Make It So Easy To Put On Necklaces & BraceletsDon’t let long nails impede your accessorizing game; this 6-pack of clasps make it easy to put on necklaces or bracelets. Crafted from gold-toned metal with a lobster clasp, they fit onto the ends of your jewelry, with strong magnets on either end that immediately grab on; all you have to do is reach around.
2
Mistake: Wearing A Bra That Doesn’t Fit Properly
Solution: A Bra In Stretchy Seamless Fabric That Molds To Your ShapeAn ill-fitting bra is uncomfortable, and it can shift underneath clothing, distracting from your look; this bra is crafted from seamless fabric with plenty of stretch, so it’ll mold to your shape. Designed with hook & eye closure and adjustable straps, this bra makes it a cinch to get the right fit.
- Available sizes: Small — 4X-Large
- Available colors: 13
3
Mistake: Settling For Shapeless Clothes
Solution: A Cinch Clip That Gives Tired Styles A Brand New LookThis cinch clip breathes new life into old clothes. Use it to cinch dresses, skirts, and tops for a more form-fitted look. Its clear plastic material blends into your clothes so well that people might not even realize it’s there. Each kit comes with eight rings in four different sizes. You can also use it to hold accessories in place — just don’t forget to remove it before laundry day.
4
Mistake: Wearing Loose Pants That No Longer Fit Correctly
Solution: An Adjustable Waist Buckle Set That’s Simple To UseTailor your clothes with this adjustable waist buckle set. Pin them anywhere on your waistband, and then interlock them for a snug fit. Their metal material blends in with the hardware on your jeans. Each order comes with 10 buckle sets total, so you’ll be set for quite some time.
5
Mistake: Thinking You Need To Visit A Salon For Callus-Free Feet
Solution: Callus-Removing Gel With Over 42,000 5-Star RatingsThere’s no need to visit a salon for callus-free feet; this callus-remover gel does the work for you for far less money, and just as silky-smooth results. The scent-free formula works in minutes to remove rough, dead skin — and it’s so popular it’s got over 42,000 5-star ratings.
6
Mistake: Layering Long Necklaces That Tangle & Knot
Solution: A Clever Spacer That Gives Jewelry Some Extra Breathing RoomTake care of your jewelry with this clever spacer. It separates necklaces while you wear them, so your chains won't tangle. Made of stainless steel and plated with 18-karat gold, it looks much more expensive than it is. You can also wear it in the ocean or to the gym. Use it with three to six necklaces at a time.
7
Mistake: Letting Heavy Earrings Stretch Your Piercings
Solution: Supportive Patches To Protect Your LobesHeavy earrings can leave piercings stretched, but these patches are the fix. Tiny and transparent, the circular patches stick onto the backs of your lobes with the help of strong, skin-safe adhesive, to support your lobes and help prevent stretching and tearing.
8
Mistake: Choosing The Wrong Shades Of Makeup
Solution: A Lipstick That Works With Your pHCustomize your look with this lipstick. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, it changes color according to your pH levels. Your personalized shade of pink will go on silky smooth and hydrate while you wear it. Best of all, it has a real chrysanthemum flower inside.
9
Mistake: Wearing Elastic Bands Around Your Wrist
Solution: Hair Elastics That Look Just Like JewelryAccessorize any look with these hair elastics. With stylish colors and designs, they double as bracelets. Their stretchy material holds your ponytail without pulling your hair. Each pack comes with 48, so you can mix and match — or wear them all at once for a layered look.
10
Mistake: Tanning For A Gorgeous Glow
Solution: A Self-Tanner That Works Just As Well Without DamageTanning beds are so passé (and dangerous), but this self-tanner is safe and always in style. If you're looking for an especially dark tan, this is the formula for you. Developing in about an hour, the longer you leave it on, the deeper your tan will become. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and according to one reviewer, “the only product I have ever used that gave me the results it said it would.”
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Mistake: Leaving Deodorant Stains On Your Clothing
Solution: A 2-Pack Of Deodorant Remover SpongesThese deodorant remover sponges are a white shirt’s best friend. Gently rub the underarms of your shirts and tank tops to get rid of stains. You can use them dry, or get them wet for an extra powerful clean. When you buy, you’ll receive two sponges to keep even more clothes clean. They work on fabrics in every color of the rainbow.
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Mistake: Not Protecting Your Hair Before You Heat Style It
Solution: This Heat-Protecting Spray That’ll Reduce FrizzSpritz a little bit of this heat protecting spray on your hair before you heat style it, and it will create a strong barrier around your strands to protect your hair from frizz, moisture loss, and dullness. The result? Your hair will look shinier and less frizzy when you’ve finished styling it. The lightweight formula isn’t sticky and leaves behind no residue, making this an easy add to any hair care arsenal. It’s on sale right now, so this is an especially fantastic purchase for the gifting season ahead (or as a gift for yourself).
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Mistake: Tripping Over Untied Shoelaces
Solution: Swapping Them For Elastic No-Tie LacesThese elastic no-tie laces take the hassle out of your favorite footwear. Just lace them into your sneakers or shoes, then tighten their screw lock. You'll be able to go about your whole day without stopping to retie. Their elastic material stretches and conforms to your feet for a comfortable fit. They're also great for runners who don’t have time to pause during a race.
14
Mistake: Letting Flyaways Steal The Show
Solution: A Hair Tamer Stick That’s Easy To Keep In A BagSlicked-back ponytails are all the rage, and this hair tamer stick gets you in on the trend. It's made with beeswax, jojoba, and avocado oil. These ingredients hold flyaways down, keeping buns and ponytails in perfect shape. Just brush it on with the easy-to-use applicator for smooth and shiny results.
15
Mistake: Using Tight Elastic Bands That Can Cause Breakage
Solution: A Set Of Pure Silk ScrunchiesFor long and strong hair, look no further than these Mulberry silk scrunchies. Their luxe material is soft on hair, minimizing breakage for healthy growth. They also help minimize ponytail bumps. They come in a four-pack and are good for all hair types — they’d even make a great little gift.
16
Mistake: Letting Your Hair Get Greasy & Flat
Solution: A Dry Powder Shampoo That Can Make Things EasierIf you don't have time to wash your hair, give this dry powder shampoo a try. It works without potentially harmful aerosol sprays. Instead, you can simply shake it onto your scalp, then massage it into your mane. Its compact design is perfect for touch-ups on the go, and its soothing scent of lavender oil is hard not to love.
17
Mistake: Wearing Shoes That Are Just A Little Too Snug
Solution: A Clever Shoe Stretcher That Can Help You Get A Better FitThis clever shoe stretcher seems like it was invented by Mary Poppins. If your shoes are too snug, just adjust your stretchers to the right size, then put them in your footwear. In just 24 hours, you can start wearing those shoes. They also come with odor-eliminating bags. Made of polyurethane and metal, they’re designed to last.
18
Mistake: Settling For Clumpy Mascara
Solution: An Eyelash Comb That Adds Definition & VolumeBring your eye look to the next level with this eyelash comb. Its fine bristles separate lashes while removing clumps of mascara. Small and lightweight, it's travel-friendly, and it comes with a protective cover. Made with easy-to-clean stainless steel, its slight bend in its handle makes it more ergonomic.
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Mistake: Getting Sweaty Feet Every Time You Go Sockless
Solution: No-Show Shoe Liner Socks That Will Give You The Look While Keeping Feet FreshThese no-show socks keep feet clean and dry. Slip them into your shoes, and they'll create a moisture-wicking barrier between your feet and insoles. They’re a great choice for ballet flats, and also add some extra cushion to your shoes. “Repurchased multiple times,” said one reviewer. “I love love love these!”
- Available sizes: Small, Large
- Available colors: 4
20
Mistake: Wearing Too Much Perfume
Solution: A Popular Body Mist With A Light Beachy SmellThis popular body mist has a light, tropical scent that transports your senses to the beach. With notes of dragonfruit, orange blossom, and tuberose, it smells delicious without overpowering the people around you. It's made without potential irritants, including parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Spritz it on after moisturizing for a beachy glow.
21
Mistake: Wearing Undies That Show Through Your Clothes
Solution: A Fan-Favorite Multipack Of Seamless ThongsUndies that show through your clothes can distract from an otherwise great look — but these thongs are crafted from seamless micro mesh, so they’ll remain virtually undetectable. The mid-rise design is such a fan-favorite, the five-pack has over 54,000 5-star ratings.
- Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
- Available colors 10
22
Mistake: Wearing Pants That Are Too Long
Solution: A Hem Adhesive That Shortens Without SewingTailor your pants at home with this hem adhesive. Just turn them inside out, roll them up to the desired length, and iron this tape on. It creates a flawless hem in a matter of minutes. Use it on lightweight fabrics like cotton, rayon, and linen. Heat activates its adhesive properties, so it won't budge.
23
Mistake: Letting Your Smartwatch Band Ruin Your Look
Solution: A Smartphone-Compatible Watch Band That Looks Looks Like JewelryA smartwatch can ruin your otherwise excellent look — but this watch band features a slender, linked, silver-toned stainless steel band that turns your smartwatch into jewelry. Designed with a fold-over clasp, the adjustable design effortlessly elevates your look.
- Available colors: 9
24
Mistake: Choosing A Sweater That Distracts From Your Look
Solution: A Cardigan In A Knit Texture That’s Chic But Still MinimalA sweater that’s too busy can distract from your look — but this sweater is crafted from a chunky ribbed knit that adds interest while remaining minimal. The button-front design features chic bloused sleeves, and an easy fit that’ll make layering a cinch.
- Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
- Available colors: 30
25
Mistake: Wearing Undies That Show Through Your Clothes
Solution: A 5-Pack Of Thongs That’ll Help You Avoid VPLVPL can steal attention from an otherwise excellent look; these undies solve that problem. Crafted from seamless, stretchy fabric, the low-rise design practically disappears under clothing — no wonder they’ve got over 55,000 five-star ratings from shoppers.
- Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
- Available colors: 9
26
Mistake: Wearing Away Shoes With Cracked Soles
Solution: Shoe Glue That Gives New Life To Your Favorite ShoesDon’t wear shoes if they’ve got cracked soles; this shoe glue sets in minutes, for a strong bond that’ll resist water and hold up in high temps. The formula works on materials ranging from rubber and leather to canvas, and it’s invisible, so nobody will be the wiser.
27
Mistake: Wearing Wrinkled Outfits On Vacation
Solution: A Mini Travel Iron That Fits In Your SuitcaseBring this iron with you on vacation, and you won’t have to worry about wrinkles spoiling your outfits. Lightweight and compact, it fits in your suitcase, and features five steam outlets and three settings, to quickly smooth fabrics ranging from silk and cotton to linen and wool.
28
Mistake: Using Boring Elastics To Pull Your Hair Back
Solution: Tortoiseshell Claw Clips That’ll Elevate Your ‘FitA boring hair elastic can drag down an elegant look — try these claw clips instead. The set of two is crafted from durable resin, with strong springs that can hold both thick and thin — and the tortoiseshell print adds low-key elegance to your outfit.
- Available colors: 13
29
Mistake: Wearing A Bra That Shows Under Deep-Cut Tops
Solution: A Strapless Sticky Bra That Boosts Your CleavageIf you’re wearing a low-cut top or dress, this sticky bra is a game-changer. The smooth cotton cups cups stay in place thanks to skin-safe adhesive backing, hooking at the center to offer a cleavage boost. Don’t throw them away when you’re done; they can be re-used up to 12 times.
- Available sizes: A — G
- Available colors: 5
30
Mistake: Heat-Styling Your Hair Without Protecting It First
Solution: A Lightweight Spray That Helps Lock In MoistureDon’t pick up that curling iron or blow dryer until you’ve used this lightweight heat protectant spray. Formulated with hydrolyzed lupin protein, it helps to keep moisture in, and guard against heat damage — so your ‘do will look smooth AF.
31
Mistake: Using Dry Shampoo That Leaves A Visible Residue
Solution: Dry Shampoo That Comes In Colors To Match Your HairDry shampoo can be a game-changer for extending your ‘do between washes, but visible residue can ruin the look. Formulated with Korean ginseng and biotin, this dry shampoo comes in three shades, to help match your hair — and the compact design features a puff design that can be pressed into your scalp for fresh, voluminous hair on-the-go.
32
Mistake: Ignoring Snagged Fingernails
Solution: A Glass Nail File You Can Use Again & AgainSnagged nails are annoying and unsightly — but this nail file gently smoothes any ragged edges. Made from glass, you can easily wash it off and reuse without any fear of rusting, and it comes with a case so you can stash it in your purse for on-the-go maintenance.
- Available colors: 2
33
Mistake: Wearing An Outfit That Needs Repairs
Solution: A Sewing Kit With Everything You Need For Fast FixesDon’t leave the house in an outfit with straggling threads or rips when you can easily fix those issues with this sewing kit. The compact design unfolds to reveal 24 shades of thread, scissors, seam ripper, needles, and safety pins, plus a measuring tape and a thimble — everything you need.
34
Mistake: Ignoring Small Tears & Snags
Solution: A Sewing Kit That Helps You Quickly Patch Things UpSmall snags can make a big impact; stitch them up with this sewing kit. It includes 30 needles, 18 thread colors, and a pair of scissors, among other essentials. It also has a sturdy zipper to ensure everything stays inside. It’s no wonder that it currently holds an overall score of 4.6 stars on Amazon.
35
Mistake: Letting Dirty Makeup Brushes Ruin Your Look
Solution: A Clever Sponge That Removes Color In Just 3 SecondsCreate the makeup looks of your dreams with this makeup-remover sponge. When you’re finished with a product, wipe your brushes back and forth over the sponge to eliminate pigments and powders in just three seconds. Arriving in a pack of two, they come in metal tins with lids, which are great for travel.
36
Mistake: Curling Your Hair With Heat Every Day
Solution: A Gentler Heatless Curler Set That Can Help Prevent DamageTake care of your hair with this heatless curling set. Simply wrap your hair around the rod, then secure it with the included scrunchies. You’ll wake up with voluminous curls. The set is made of satin, which actually helps protect hair from damage while you sleep. Over 15,000 Amazon reviewers gave it five stars.
37
Mistake: Forgetting To Clean Your Shoes
Solution: Portable Cleaners That Just Need Water To ActivateIf your dirty shoes aren’t machine-washable, don’t fret — try these instant sole cleaners instead. Just add water, and they'll wipe dirt and stains away, with minimal effort on your part. Each sponge has a scouring pad on one side and a dense sponge on the other. Since they’re pocket-sized, you can always have one on hand when your kicks need a refresh.
38
Mistake: Not Having The Right Brushes On Hand
Solution: A 4-In-1 Brush That’ll Ensure You’re CoveredThis four-in-one brush works with creams, powders, liquids, and more. With four replaceable heads, it can take the place of up to eight makeup brushes. It includes a foundation brush, an eyeshadow brush, and an eyeliner — and that’s just the beginning. All of its bristles are vegan and cruelty-free.
39
Mistake: Not Seeing Your Look From All Angles
Solution: A Mirror With A 360-Degree Viewing AngleFor a more precise hair and makeup styling, try this mirror. Its 360-degree design lets you see your look from every angle. Made of anti-fog glass, it makes your reflection crystal clear. It’s easy to hang on your wall or prop it up on your bathroom counter, and it also serves as a helpful accessory if you trim your own hair at home.
40
Mistake: Letting Your Nails Become Rough & Jagged
Solution: A Long-Lasting Glass Nail File That Comes With Its Own CaseTouch up your manicure with this glass nail file. Made of sturdy glass, it won't wear down over time. It shapes and strengthens nails for salon-quality touch-ups at home, and comes in a sleek carrying case for easy travel. “Best nails I've ever had,” said one reviewer. “The file leaves minimal residue and works quickly. You don't have to file back [and] forth; it takes just a couple of strokes in one direction to shape the nail.”
41
Mistake: Accidentally Dressing Too Casually For An Event
Solution: A Polished Cardigan To Pull Your Look Together InstantlyThis handy cardigan is great to have on hand if you’re worried about dressing a little too casually. Made of viscose and nylon, it's absurdly stretchy and soft. Its oversized buttons hold it in place, covering up necklines that might not be right for the occasion. You can launder it by hand or in the washing machine.
- Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
- Available colors: 26
42
Mistake: Wearing Tricky Tops & Dresses With A Traditional Bra
Solution: Sticky Nipple Covers Made From SiliconeThese sticky nipple covers give you fashion freedom like you’ve never known. Made of soft silicone, they won't irritate sensitive skin. Their strong adhesive stays in place all night long, whether you're hitting the dance floor or the couch. Best of all, they’re easy to clean — just rinse them under warm water and let them air-dry.
43
Mistake: Letting Your Smart Watch Distract From Your Look
Solution: A Chic Tortoiseshell Band That Turns Your Watch Into JewelryEnjoy all the technological advantages of your smart watch without sacrificing style by adding this clever watch band; crafted from smooth resin in a chic tortoiseshell print, the water-resistant design fits around your smartwatch, with a folding clasp to keep it securely in place.
44
Mistake: Wearing Clothes That Don’t Feel Fully Clean
Solution: Washing Machine Tabs To Make Sure Each Wash Session Is More EfficientIf your clothes aren’t getting clean after laundry day, try these washing machine tabs. They break down residue and grime while helping your machine run more smoothly. Just toss one in, then run a normal cycle with hot water. These tabs are compatible with machines of all brands and designs, and they’ve earned over 90,000 five-star reviews from Amazon customers.
45
Mistake: Waiting Too Long Between Salon Visits
Solution: Root Touch-Up Powder That Matches Your HairIf you’ve waited too long for that salon visit and your roots are showing, this touch-up powder is a game-changer. It comes in eight variations of blonde and brunette; use the brush tip to pat onto your roots for a fresh-from-the-salon look that resists water and sweat — you can even swim in it
46
Mistake: Wearing Shoes That Have Seen Better Days
Solution: A Shoe Glue That Can Make Your Soles StrongerIf you don't want to let go of your favorite pair, try this shoe glue. It sticks to leather, rubber, vinyl, and canvas, withstanding long walks and athletic activities. Drying fast, it lets you walk in your shoes just 24 hours after application. It's permanent and waterproof, and great for sneakers, boots, hiking shoes, and more.
47
Mistake: Wearing A Daring Look Without The Right Support
Solution: Fashion Tape That Can Ensure You’re Always CoveredFrom dresses that fly up to necklines that slide down, this fashion tape can help. Its double-sided adhesive sticks to fabrics and skin, preventing wardrobe malfunctions. It won’t irritate skin and lasts for hours on end. Each strap is 0.5 inches wide and 3 inches long, proving that good things come in small packages.
48
Mistake: Letting Dull Nails Ruin Your Overall Look
Solution: Translucent Pink Nail Polish For A Natural-Looking ShinePolished nails can do so much to elevate your look — and this translucent nail concealer delivers a natural-looking shine, no salon visit required. The delicate shade options enhance the tone of your own nail color, delivering a chip-resistant finish that can last for over a week.
49
Mistake: Leaving The House With Greasy Hair
Solution: Oil-Absorbing Powder That Leaves Hair Fresh & VoluminousYou might not have time for a shower, but this hair powder can be sprayed on roots to absorb oil and leave hair looking and feeling fresh. Formulated with aloe vera, coconut oil, and vitamin E, the easy-to-use product hydrates and can even add volume; it’ll become a mainstay.
50
Mistake: Not Accessorizing Your Outfit
Solution: A Faux Leather Belt That Pulls Your Look TogetherBy adding this belt to your outfit, you can pull your look together in an instant. Crafted from faux leather and accented by gold-toned hardware, the simple design defines your shape and adds visual interest; simply add shoes or a bag in the same shade for easy coordination.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
- Available colors: 23
51
Mistake: Neglecting Your Scalp When Washing Your Hair
Solution: An Exfoliating Brush That’ll Become The Best Part Of Your ShowerNeglecting your scalp when shampooing can lead to dandruff and product residue build-up; enter this brush. The ergonomic design features a handy loop for your finger, and flexible multi-height bristles to stimulate the scalp and scrub away debris; it’ll be the best part of your shower.
52
Mistake: Letting Your Precious Gems Get Dingy
Solution: A Jewelry Cleaner Stick That Has Shoppers ObsessedDon’t let your precious gems when this jewelry cleaner stick makes it so easy to clean them. Boasting over 44,000 5-star ratings, the pen-sized stick dispenses a cleansing gel that removes dirt and oil, with a compact brush head that can even fit under hard-to-clean prongs.
53
Mistake: Not Adding A Textured Piece To Your Outfit
Solution: A Short-Sleeve Sweater In A Rich-Looking Cable KnitWithout varying textures, an outfit can seem a bit bland; in a rich cable knit, this short-sleeve sweater adds texture to your look, with a notch collar and a split neckline for even more visual interest. Otherwise minimal, the easy-fitting silhouette will pair with tons of pieces in your wardrobe.
- Available sizes: Small — X-Large
- Available colors: 26
54
Mistake: Wearing Wrinkled Clothes When You Travel
Solution: A Travel-Size Iron That Fits In Your SuitcaseFew things can detract from a great vacation ‘fit like wrinkled clothes; this travel iron weighs less than a pound, and the compact size is easy to fit even in a carry-on. The plug-in design heats up in just 60 seconds, so you can have wrinkle-free clothes in a flash.
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Mistake: Forgetting To Prime Your Skin Before Putting On Makeup
Solution: A Primer That Brightens & Evens Skin Tone For Flawless Makeup LooksBy applying this primer before makeup, you can brighten skin and smooth texture — and it has lavender and mint tones, so if you’re looking to minimize redness, or help a blemish blend in with the rest of your skin, this product will be your hero.
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Mistake: Overdoing It At The Med Spa
Solution: Forehead Patches That Promote Smooth Skin Without Any InjectionsIt can be easy to get carried away at the med spa, and left with a frozen forehead; infused with collagen, these forehead patches help hydrate the skin, leaving a glowing and smooth surface that’s still expressive. They only need to be left on for 20 minutes — easy peasy.
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Mistake: Forgoing A Mani Because You Don’t Have Time For The Salon
Solution: A Press-On Nail Kit For An Instantly Polished ManicureIf you don’t have time to visit the salon, this press-on nail kit is the answer. The 30-piece set comes with 15 nail sizes, to ensure a salon-quality fit, with each nail crafted from soft gel. Use the included nail glue to reinforce the adhesive strips, for an at-home mani that can last up to 14 days.
- Available colors: 33
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