Fashion hacks

Rachel Geronimo

Being a fashionista isn’t always easy. It can be challenging when a wardrobe needs a little more TLC than expected. Here are some fashion hacks that can help and make those complicated situations disappear.

TIE YOUR WAY AROUND

Alyssa Garcia, assistant manager and certified buyer at Plato’s Closet, said she noticed that the grunge style is in. A simple way to create a grunge-style crop top is to alter the fit of a men’s shirt by using a hair tie.

“I take men’s shirt, tie it up in one of the corners with a ponytail holder, tuck it up a little bit and it’s an easy and comfortable outfit,” Garcia said.

One can also use a rubber band as an alternative way to create the crop top style. Grab any side of the shirt, secure a rubber band around it and create a small knot.

PIN IT

Ever bought a garment that was a little bit too long? Garcia suggested that individuals use bobby pins as a way to secure and hem any fashion garments.

“Use a bobby pin to roll up your pants if it’s too long,” Garcia said.

Bobby pins are great alternatives to sewing. Start to roll the selected area inwards as if it were to be hemmed and finish the process by taking two clear bobby pins and securing them on the seams of the clothing.

LINT YOUR WAY OUT

Tired of getting fuzz on that new sweater? Don’t have a lint roller? No worries, Garcia shared the simple way of ridding the common clothing issue.

“Run a razor over sweaters to get rid of any pills,” Garcia said.

If there’s not a razor or lint roller lying around, then what?

Find some tape, grab a pen, insert a strip of tape into the space between the pen and the silver clamp. Start to circulate the tape sticky side up to create a mini lint roller. No only will this come in handy on short notice but this DIY makes a perfect mini to-go lint roller.

WRINKLE-FREE

Ever had a moment where there was no time to iron a shirt? Use a hot shower as a way to get rid of those stubborn wrinkles.

Steam will cause the fibers in the garment to be relax and loosen.

Turn the shower up to the highest level and hang the clothing piece close enough to the shower without getting it wet. Try to create as much steam as possible in the bathroom with closed windows and door. By the time you’re done with your shower, you’ll notice that your garment is wrinkle-free.

TAPE SAVES THE DAY

Have a cute backless garment but no proper undergarment? Fear not, duct tape is a great way to save the day.

“Depending on bust size, you can use duct tape to keep the “girls” together for a backless dress,” Garcia said.

Purchase some soft fabric duct tape and wear the tape according to the directions for a clean backless look.

TIGHT NEW SHOES

Ever bought new shoes that are too tight? Try stretching them with ice!

All you need are two zip lock bags each filled with a cup of water. Insert them in your shoes and stick them in the freezer for 24 hours.

Water will expand when it turns into ice and stretch out your shoes. To not cause any damage, remember to let the ice thaw for about 20 minutes before removing them from your shoes. If necessary, continue to repeat the process until the desirable fit is achieved. 

SHOE AWAY THE STINK

After a long day of wearing your favorite pair of shoes, they usually need aired out. Did you know that you’re able to use baking soda as a way to rid of smell?

Fill two tube socks with a cup of baking soda each, and insert the socks in your shoes. Place your shoes in a room with no humidity and wait for about 24 hours. You’ll soon have some fresh smelling shoes to start of your day once again.

ROAD TRIP

When packing for a road trip, one may find it difficult to pack both clean clothing and dirty shoes in one set of luggage. Save room by using shower caps as a clean and organized way to pack shoes.

Shower caps expand and fit comfortably around your shoes. Buy shower caps at the dollar store to save money and place your shoes in the caps.