Fashion emergencies can happen to any one and sometimes with no prior knowledge on how to manage this problem, it becomes a major wardrobe malfunction. One minute you’re feeling inspired and ready to slay; the next, you’re panicking and tearing through your wardrobe like it’s a crime scene (I know, because it happens to the best of us). These malfunctioning could be a missing button, wrong outfit combination, mismatched color pairing, or the classic “there’s nothing in my closet that looks good today” meltdown that we’ve all had. But here’s the good news, these wardrobe crises don’t have to ruin your day anymore because sometimes, all that is needed is a quick, fashion hack that instantly rescues your outfit, your confidence, and your peace of mind.

Fashionphoto credit: Busbee style

Here are powerful, practical, real-life hacks that can be relied on and at the same time I believe every fashion lover should know about an emergency wardrobe crisis. Think of this guide as your stylish friend whispering solutions into your ear whenever there’s a wardrobe malfunctioning that needs to be fixed or you’re panicking over what to wear. Firstly always have a third option fashion piece; this always comes in handy when your outfit looks basic or boring. Sometimes you wear an outfit and somehow it still feels and looks unfinished. This is also a style emergency that isn’t talked about enough. Having a third piece option is  the instant cure to boring and basic outfits. Your first piece is your top, your second piece is your bottom, and then your third piece can be anything that adds interest. It could be; a blazer, a cardigan, a denim jacket, a vest, a belt, a scarf, or statement accessories. Another power hack is to fit your clothes to size when they’re either too-loose or just don’t fit right. Problems like this could be from an overly loose shirt, gaping necklines, weird bunching around the waist and hip area or pants that have refused to just fit properly. Cases like this can actually turn a great outfit into a stressful moment. Power hacks on managing malfunctioning like this would be; the hair tie hack for loose tops. This is when you gather the extra fabrics at the back, twist it, and then secure it with a tiny hairband, and tuck it in and this would give an instant fitting to the loose top. Also you are struggling with an oversized waist, a trick for that is to roll up the hem, tuck only the rolled part into your waistband, and let the rest drape naturally. This would add shape without ruining the vibe you aimed for. Another trick to make your outfit look fitted is a belt. The belt works for almost any and every outfit. Those baggy dresses that don’t seem to look cute? Throw a belt on the waist. An oversized blazer? Throw a belt on it. A shapeless outfit? Also throw a belt on it. Belts are an infant, a wardrobe must-have.

FashionPhoto credit: Le fashion style

Trying to mix and match colors when you’re stressed is a recipe for disaster, so  when in doubt, go monochrome. Monochrome outfits exude an  expensive, intentional, and instantly stylish look, even when the combined pieces are simple and basic. For instance you could be running late for an appointment, an event or even a party and nothing matches. Just throw on a white tank top, white trousers, white loafers, sandals or flats, and a crossbody or hand bag that can be a pop of different color, and suddenly you’re a minimalist fashion icon. Monochrome aesthetics works with any shade of color, be it; white, beige, grey, chocolate brown, olive, navy, even bold tones like red or cobalt. It still guarantees a chic and modern look. Fashion emergencies sometimes happen when your outfit doesn’t match the weather or the setting. You step outside, and it’s probably too cold, too warm or too formal or casual for your choice of outfit. Layering is the easiest way to control the mood and practicality of your outfit. For instance: A simple satin slip dress can easily go from brunch to dinner outfit and from casual to elegant, simply by  just switching the layers. Layering right allows you to adjust your entire vibe without changing your core outfit. It’s your wardrobe’s reset button.

FashionPhoto credit: Pinterest

Accessories are major solutions of emergency styling, they add personality, shape, color, and intentionality to an outfit. The key of this hack is to focus on one statement piece rather than piling everything on. And when in doubt, try: wearing gold hoops, because they go with everything. Wear a structured mini bag, a bold necklace or layered chains, a pair of dark sunglasses, a silk scarf that’s tied on your bag or neck or around your head and then you are good to go. Sometimes the fashion crisis isn’t from the outfit, it’s the feeling. Your clothes are probably so cute, but your mind is chaotic. The trick is a quick grooming resets that pull everything together. Try these 60-second fixes: slick your hair into a clean bun, apply a generous amount of lip gloss or bold lipstick, add a spritz of perfume, tidy or draw your brows, moisturize your legs and arms for extra glow or shine. And that right there is how you go from fashion crisis and stress to polished and elevated in minutes. 

FashionPhoto credit: Liberty

Fashion is personal, emotional, and some days, it could also be overwhelming. So you don’t always need a perfect wardrobe to look and feel beautiful. All you need are a few smart tricks and hacks with a little creativity, and the confidence to try. So the next time you are  having a fashion crisis, a wardrobe malfunction or you’re standing in front of your closet and you feel stuck, take a deep breath and reach for one of these hacks. Give yourself grace because you’re actually more stylish than you give yourself credit for. You’ve dealt with bigger things in life than a fashion crisis, so trust yourself. Most importantly, dress with joy, confidence and intentionality.