Self-care is such an important part of good mental health, and it can sometimes be the simplest things that have the biggest effect. Putting on an outfit that makes you look great will boost your self-esteem and help you feel ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
The best thing is that there are plenty of ways to look great that don’t require lots of time or money, so anyone can implement a few routines that will help them maximize the feel-good factor without eating into their time or budget.
These hacks will help you look and feel fantastic:
Have a system for clothes
There’s nothing worse than finding that your favourite shirt is dirty or that your suit jacket is at the dry cleaners, and you haven’t got anything else to wear. Plan what you want to wear in advance for special occasions to ensure that you have everything on hand when you need it.
Only have ‘best clothes’
Aside from the jeans you wear for dirty yard work, your wardrobe would ideally only contain clothes that make you feel great. From your best suit to your most comfortable pair of ripped skinny jeans, focus on clothes that suit your body shape and accentuate the features that you like best.
Grooming is important
There’s a limit to how good you can look if you neglect your personal grooming, so build time into your schedule to look your best. Hair of any length needs to be clean, and while shorter styles need trimming more often, longer hair also benefits from a bit of time and attention – this is also true for facial hair.
Dress for yourself
While you may have to abide by dress codes or uniform policies at work, there’s usually a chance to let your own style shine through. Whether it’s a pair of shoes that brings a smile to your face, a belt with your favourite buckle, or just a brightly coloured pocket square, a little touch can be all you need to make an outfit your own.
Find your style
Not every new trend suits everyone, so it’s important to find a balance between staying up-to-date and feeling comfortable. Find simple classics and staples that work for you, like the perfect white shirt or a jacket that goes with everything, and build your wardrobe around items that will never go out of fashion.
Take care of your clothes
You could have the most fantastic wardrobe full of the best-quality clothes, but if they have holes, are stained, or they’re wrinkled then that will be the first thing people notice. Invest in good quality hangers to avoid stretching and shoulders bumps; launder clothes according to the care instructions to give the fabrics a longer lifespan; fold and roll clothes that aren’t hung up to avoid creases; be ruthless about clothes that are damaged – repair or recycle them to ensure that your clothes are always up to scratch.
Don’t overlook accessories
From hats and belts to scarves and jewellery, well-chosen accessories can really make you look ‘put together’. A beautiful tie or even a fancy pair of socks can give a plain suit a hint of individuality, and an eye-catching necklace or bracelet can give a casual outfit a real lift.
Footwear that’s practical and stylish
The days when a man was judged on the shininess of his shoes may be over, but tatty sneakers or scuffed boots do convey a certain image that may not be what you’re going for. A little time spent maintaining your shoes can extend their wearable life and keep them looking good for longer, so launder grubby canvas shoes, scrub those sneakers, and learn how to care for your leather footwear.
Whatever your personal style and however you choose to dress, time spent looking after yourself is always worth it. Give yourself the attention you deserve, and you will look and feel all the better for it.