To ask how to look put together and polished?

[DreamyLavender]

I want to look more put together and polished. I already put a good amount of effort into my appearance but I think I still have a long way to go. However I find I often miss the mark. What should be a classic, simple outfit ends up looking dull and frumpy.

I am going to spend some of my Sunday doing some maintenance on my clothes (getting rid of loose threads, removing bobbles) and cleaning my shoes as a start.

Also I know there are more important things in life than this and in the grand scheme of things it does not matter. I also know some people would view this as a waste of time and effort. However I feel like spending a bit of time on my appearance makes me feel more confident and secure in myself.

Which aspects do you feel you're wide of the mark on?

I’ve read dozens of these threads over the years and they usually all boil down spending money. Higher quality clothes, replaced often with up to date versions, more frequent haircuts/colours, professional nails etc

Unless you can turn your handing making your own clothes, cutting your own hair and doing your own nails very well yourself it’s going to cost £££

Plucked or threaded eyebrows, manicure (I do these things myself so no extra expence, except for an eyebrow dye), washed hair (as simple as it sounds). These in my opinion are quite crucial things to look more polished. I keep forgetting about my shoes, boots though so thanks for the tip!

As someone with shit hair (thanks to a recent salon visit), I think it’s all about the hair

Having clean, fresh clothes help too of course. But I think lovely hair makes you naturally look put together

Neat nails. They don’t need polish but they need to be tidy.

Find a favourite perfume. It will make you feel good.

There was a massive and excellent thread in style and beauty a few years ago about it, I’ll try to find it.

Here it goes - the title says ‘expensive’ but I think it answers your question

There's always lots of good advice on these threads about hair, eyebrows and shoes, but the best possible start is a well-fitted bra that keeps your bust up higher and firmly where it's supposed to be and not swinging around down near your waist. Looks like you have better posture too.

And be early for things. It is very hard to look calm and poised if you are late, flustered or in a rush.