HOW TO: Instantly Look Put-Together

We all want to achieve the best possible result while putting in the least amount of effort. However, when you are getting ready, it can sometimes be difficult to come up with a look that is both simple and put-together. In the mornings, if I ever feel like I look unpolished or incomplete, this is what I do.

1. Add a Black Blazer

If you have to transition a day look into a night look, or be business appropriate for an event, making a strong first impression is crucial. No matter what you are wearing--whether it be a floral print dress or a collared blouse--you can consistently add a black blazer to polish up any look. This type of tailored jacket instantly elevates any outfit, and black is a universal color that is flattering and functional. Getting ready always seems to come down to a few rushed minutes, so if you're in a bind and need to put something on fast as a final touch, you can easily throw on a black blazer and achieve that look. Having this piece on hand will transform you into looking like you are wearing an outfit rather than like you haphazardly grabbed the first clothes you could find. This tuxedo jacket from H&M is perfect because it has the right cut and slightly oversized feel to suit anything underneath.

2. Brush Your Hair

No, I don't actually have a Mason Pearson hairbrush. Maybe one day though...

It sounds silly and somewhat obvious, but you really don't want untamed hair when you are going for a put together look. Smooth and shiny hair in almost any style will get rid of that "just rolled out of bed" appearance that detracts from the rest of your outfit. As we all know, good hair is like an added accessory that has the power to complete any look. Knotty hair is obvious, so if you don't have time for anything else, brush your hair and get one step closer towards looking put-together.

3. Add One Statement Accessory

When wearing any outfit, you can sometimes look like there is something missing. This emptiness can be filled by a scarf, necklace, or even statement bracelet that draws attention to one specific feature. For instance, a statement necklace draws attention to your neckline and up, and it is a fun way to add a pop of color or shine for dimension. With scarves, the rule I always follow is that if I am wearing a solid color, then my scarf will be a printed or colorful, and vice versa. This creates a sense of balance in your outfit that makes it look like you have put in a lot of effort when you really haven't. The necklace I am wearing in the photo above is more of a quiet statement than the chunky ones are (like this one from BaubleBar) but really whatever you feel comfortable with will work best for you. 

4. Fill In Your Brows

NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder in Taupe/Ash

Even for those of you who don't wear makeup, filling in your eyebrows is a way to immediately look polished and refined. There has definitely been a focus on strong, bold eyebrows in the beauty industry for the past couple of years, and it really is well-deserved. Eyebrows frame your eyes and complete your face. This final step of a well-defined brow is the fastest and simplest way to complete your new "put-together" style. To see what I use to fill in my brows check out my post "All About My Eyebrows".