Crafting the perfect outfit goes beyond nailing down the essentials. You need to ensure said items truly work for you as well, in terms of fit and function. But things happen. You know what we're talking about—those moments when a top doesn't quite stay put correctly or when those new tights slip just a bit too much in your shoes. Fortunately, there's a range of affordable items in the market that may seem somewhat "lame" but are actually lifesavers to solve any of those tricky fashion problems. Ahead, we rounded up 20 practical under-$20 staples to fix the most common sartorial issues out there. Keep scrolling to uncover the fashion hacks that will bring any outfit you're wearing to 100.
The Issue: Pieces that don’t always stay in place
The Fix: Say hello to the must-have to keep tops, dresses, and other items in the place you want them. The best part? This specific tape won’t leave residue on clothes.
Shop another editor-approved double-sided tape pick:
The Issue: Tangled, layered necklacesThe Fix: To avoid the tangled-necklace look when you’re layering your favorite pieces, try attaching the group to this spacer clasp and hooking it behind your neck for a clean vibe.
The Issue: Stains on leather and suede products
The Fix: This is one product you always want to keep in your cabinet to spray on your new leather, faux leather, or suede pieces to repel stains and rain. Because come on, who wants to see their new favorite booties get completely ruined by that unexpected shower? Exactly.
Shop another must-have leather-protector kit:
The Issue: Bra straps showing with a strapless dress
The Fix: If you’re not into strapless bras, these clear vinyl bra straps will give you the support you need without having to show your bra straps (unless that’s your thing) with a strapless dress.
The Issue: Sweaters from shedding
The Fix: Consider investing in a fabric defuzzer to remove fuzz, lint, and pilling from your sweaters. This cheap (yet effective) device essentially shaves off unnecessary shedding.
The Issue: Feet from slipping in heels
The Fix: Ensure your feet don’t move around in your heels or flats with these pads. Simply insert them in your shoes to avoid the dreaded slip.
The Issue: Runs in your tights
The Fix: Prevent runs in your tights by spraying them with a light coat of hair spray. This essentially bonds the fibers together, making your tights less likely to get runs or snags.
The Issue: Deodorant streaks on clothes
The Fix: For those fresh (like just happened) deodorant stains, try rubbing them with a fabric softener sheet to remove quickly. Of course, if you notice stains after a long day, other cleaning and soaking methods will work better.
The Issue: Unwanted wrinkles
The Fix: This may seem obvious, but a portable steamer is a legit savior to instantly remove wrinkles from clothes—much easier than an iron in most cases.
The Issue: Shoe odors
The Fix: One trick to help deodorize smelly shoes it to insert dry tea bags in them overnight to help absorb moisture, which is often what can lead to that stinky situation.
The Issue: Makeup stains on clothes
The Fix: While there are a few different tricks, one way to help remove makeup stains from clothing is to lightly run the spot with a baby wipe to remove powder or foundation.
The Issue: Worn suede
The Fix: Breathe new life into your favorite suede pieces by grabbing an unused toothbrush and giving the suede a light scrubbing. The bristles will comb out the suede to give it a fresher look.
The Issue: Oil stains
The Fix: One hack to remove oil stains from your shoes is to sprinkle a little baby powder on the spot and let it sit overnight. This should help minimize the stain.
The Issue: Socks that are always falling down
The Fix: Hold socks, hosiery, dresses, or other fashion items in place by rolling on this hypoallergenic removable liquid adhesive.
The Issue: Uncomfortable flats or sneakersThe Fix: Sometimes going barefoot in sneakers, flats, or loafers just isn’t a smart idea. These liners are miracle workers to get that no-show look while keeping comfort in mind. The best part is the elastic top and silicone back so they won’t slip down.
Shop another pair of liner socks:
The Issue: Knotted necklaces
The Fix: If you’re having trouble untangling a group of necklaces, try applying baby oil to the knot with a cotton swab. This will ultimately make the chains a bit slippery, so the knot will come undone more easily when you pull on the chain. Mild soap will then remove the baby oil once you’ve untangled the knot.
The Issue: Limited closet space and slippage
The Fix: These may seem like a no-brainer, but hey, they’re important. Flat velvet hangers take up less room in your closet than plastic and wooden hangers. They also help prevent clothes from slipping off.
Next, check out another genius $7 item to fix a common fashion problem.
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