LEVEL UP
I begged a style coach to stop me wearing the same winter outfits…I had to bin my fave heels but a £2 buy worked wonders
From casual coffee date looks to heading out for drinks, the expert has covered it all
COMFORTABLE and somewhat trendy - that's how I'd describe my quite limited wardrobe, which mainly consists of jeans, trainers, two pairs of boots and long sleeve tops.
When it comes to fashion, I must admit I am not the most adventurous and boundary-pushing person out there - and more often than not, you'll see me sticking to basics.
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But now that I'm fast-approaching my early 30s (I'm turning 29 next April), it feels like I've entered this identity crisis and want to give myself a total makeover.
First, it was my bleached blonde hair that I dyed brunette after 28 years, then came my break-up from fake tan that I'd been in a committed relationship for over a decade (and one that cost me a staggering £4k over time).
Next on the list - my outfits, which I tend to wear on repeat, as I hate shopping with all my heart (my fellow thicker-sized girlies, you will know the struggle).
My day-to-day looks are pretty simple - a pair of jeans or other bottoms, sometimes a faux leather skirt or shorts, and a long-sleeve top.
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Depending on the vibe, I will go for my basic white Veja trainers or a pair of black boots.
Determined to elevate my appearance - which is far from elegant - I decided to ask style coach Antonia Higham for tips to take my outfits to the next level... without breaking the bank.
Here's what the fashion whizz, who was once ''vulgar and tacky'', had to say about my top four looks - and how a £2.50 Sainsbury's buy made it more classy in seconds.
Date night look
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Here's what the style coach said: ''This outfit has a clean, sophisticated base, with the black wrap dress providing a timeless and flattering silhouette.
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''To make it look more sophisticated, we could add a pair of sheer black tights as we are in the cooler season. The shoes are slightly casual, I would swap the casual shoes for sleek, pointed-toe heels or leather knee high stiletto boots.
''This would enhance and create a beautiful streamline throughout Kate’s outfit.
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''Accessories are key: personally I would go for a belt in burgundy for a pop of colour, amazon have some great inexpensive accessories.
''If you’re feeling extra then a wool tailored maxi coat would go beautifully in burgundy to make the outfit extra chic. Topped with gold earrings of course.''
Date night fit after the makeover
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I can totally see why Antonia wanted me to ditch the open-toe heeled sandals for a more pointy heel - not only did these instantly elevate the look but also made my sporty legs look slimmer.
The black stilettos, which I'd bagged from Mango for £79, are now a firm favourite in my wardrobe - and fellow style lovers can find cheaper alternatives at H&M (Court Shoes, £21.99), ASOS (ASOS DESIGN Paphos pointed high heeled court shoes, £26) and New Look (Black Suedette Pointed Stiletto Heel Court Shoes, £22.99).
The mini vegan leather purse has been in my collection for years - but if you're looking for an affordable alternative, it's worth checking out H&M (Handbag, £12.99), Amazon (Retro Handbag, £16.55) and even Shein where you can find purses for as little as £5.
Girls' night out look
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Analysing the fit, Antonia said: ''Kate’s outfit on the far right is elegant in its simplicity, especially with the timeless combination of a black leather jacket and crisp white trousers.
''These pieces have a modern, clean aesthetic that feels effortlessly stylish.
''However, the cropped black top and casual sandals lean more on the relaxed side, which takes away from a truly refined and expensive look.
''To make the outfit feel more polished and luxurious, swapping the sandals for pointed-toe pumps or sleek stilettos would immediately add sophistication.
''A structured handbag in black would bring a touch of elegance, while subtle jewelry, like delicate earrings or a chain necklace, would elevate the overall appearance.
''I think Kate should swap the cropped top for either a beautiful lace or silk blouse as I think it would add the perfect amount of sensual yet sophisticated glamour.
''Also with the white trousers I think they would look more flattering if they were a tad longer rather than cropped at the ankle. But regardless, Kate looks beautiful.''
Girls' night out fit after the makeover
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Looks like I'm ditching the open-toe heeled sandals and these stilettos are here to stay (though I do need to practice walking in them).
Like the elegance expert had suggested, I swapped the crop top for a more classy garment I'd found at H&M - this gorgeous V-neck Blouse (£14.99), which comes in a range of colours, such as black, dusty blue, rose and grey to name a few.
Unfortunately, as someone on the taller side at 5'9'', I often find it a struggle to shop for jeans and trousers that cover my ankles - and searching for white mum jeans this time proved to be a challenge, as expected.
Grabbing a coffee with friends
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This is what the style coach like - and disliked - about this trendy fit which I wore when on a day-trip to Oxford with my friend.
Antonia said: ''This outfit has a relaxed, casual charm, and I’m completely in love with the jacket!
''To elevate it into a more luxurious, polished look, consider swapping the blue jeans for either tailored trousers in white or a pair of white skinny jeans to keep it casual.
''Opt for a structured leather handbag rather than the crossbody strap. A tan handbag would complement the jacket beautifully.
''The white sneakers could be replaced with sleek leather loafers, pointed-toe flats, or tan riding boots (if paired with the white jeans). The simple top looks great and fits well—simplicity is best sometimes.
''If you wanted another option, I would suggest a white roll neck, as these always look elevated and chic.''
Grabbing a coffee with friends - but elevated
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To give the otherwise relaxed look a more refined feel I listed to Antonia's advice and found a pair of Straight Tailored Trousers at H&M for an affordable £32.99.
Looking for a more purse-friendly option? These ASOS DESIGN tailored wide leg dad trousers in ivory are currently on sale for under £20 and PrettyLittleThing has slashed these White Wide Leg High Waist Trousers from £28 to £25.
Although this fit may be a little bit too extra for grabbing a Saturday coffee with my friends, I'm totally obsessed with the glow-up.
Cold winter day
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Although I come from Latvia where temperatures can plummet to as low as -30, the UK winters are pretty harsh - and this cosy teddy coat I thrifted for £20 has become a firm favourite this season.
The chunky boots, which I bought a few years ago for a little over £100, have been in my wardrobe for a while - as has the green crossbody bag I wear pretty much all the time.
But will the elegance coach tell me to ditch them? Here's what Antonia thought of this winter day-out fit.
''This outfit has a chic, winter-ready vibe, with the teddy coat giving off cozy yet trendy vibes.
''To make it look more luxurious, opt for a coat with a sleeker and tailored silhouette in a wool or cashmere blend for a polished feel.
''The lighter jeans are a lovely touch for a crisp winter palette, but swapping them for tailored trousers or ivory wide-leg pants would elevate the look.
''The chunky black boots add a bold contrast, they’re very trendy but in my opinion not very elegant… refrain from purchasing or wearing any shoes with chunky soles if you want to look elegant.
''Replacing them with heeled ankle boots or toe pointed flats in cream,taupe or a bold colou would create a more refined aesthetic.
''The crossbody bag works well, but choosing a structured leather tote or a mini handbag in a neutral tone (like camel or deep green) would amp up the sophistication.''
Fashion tips to make you look rich
Fashion Tips to Elevate Your Look
- Invest in Classic Pieces
--Quality Over Quantity: Prioritise well-made, timeless items like a tailored blazer, a little black dress, or a crisp white shirt.
Neutral Colors: Opt for neutral shades such as black, white, beige, and navy, which are versatile and exude sophistication.
- Accessorize Wisely
Statement Pieces: Invest in a few high-quality accessories like a designer handbag, a classic watch, or elegant jewelry.
Minimalist Approach: Less is more. Choose one or two standout accessories to avoid looking cluttered.
- Tailoring is Key
Perfect Fit: Tailored clothing can make even affordable items look high-end. Ensure your clothes fit perfectly by having them altered if necessary.
- Maintain Your Wardrobe
Iron and Steam: Wrinkled clothes can ruin an outfit. Keep your garments wrinkle-free with regular ironing or steaming.
Proper Care: Follow care instructions to keep your clothes looking new. Dry clean when necessary and store items properly.
- Footwear Matters
Quality Shoes: Invest in a few pairs of high-quality shoes. Classic pumps, loafers, and sleek boots can elevate any outfit.
Conditioning: Keep your shoes in good condition by cleaning and polishing them regularly.
- Monochrome Outfits
Single Color Palette: Dressing in one color or varying shades of a single color can make you look polished and put-together.
- Attention to Detail
Grooming: Well-groomed hair, nails, and skin are crucial. A polished appearance starts with personal care.
Subtle Makeup: Opt for a natural makeup look that enhances your features without overpowering them.
- Layering
Sophisticated Layers: Layering can add depth and interest to your outfit. Think blazers over blouses, or sweaters over shirts.
- Confidence is Key
Own Your Look: Confidence can make any outfit look more expensive. Stand tall and wear your clothes with pride.
By incorporating these tips into your fashion routine, you can effortlessly achieve a luxurious and sophisticated look without breaking the bank.
Cold winter day - but with a touch
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Whilst strolling around the high street, I struggled to find any tailored coats that tickled my fancy - so I kept the trusty teddy coat that keeps me toasty.
Although it was just a basic swap of my white jeans and a pair of wide leg trousers, I couldn't believe how totally different the two aesthetics were - I went from a tourist in Poland to a trendy office babe thanks for the same H&M purchase.
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As much as I love the forest green crossbody bag, I can see why Antonia wanted me to switch it with a structured tote - not only did the simple change made the outfit more elegant but I also had more space to carry all of my daily essentials in.
I purchased my Ted Baker Croc Tote bag several years ago for around £50 - but thrifty shoppers looking to slash the costs can find similar alternatives at Boohoo (Faux Leather Strap Detail Tote Bag, £17.50) and ASOS (ASOS DESIGN croc laptop compartment tote bag in black, £18.20).