10 Things You’re Doing That Are Making You Look Tacky (And How to Stop)
We all want to put our best foot forward, but sometimes little habits or choices can unintentionally make us look tacky, without us even realizing it. The good news? Most of these style and etiquette missteps are easy to fix once you know what they are.
Wearing socks with sandals—opt for sleek sneakers instead
Socks with sandals often look mismatched and awkward. This draws unwanted attention and can make your outfit seem unintentional.
Instead, try sleek sneakers that complement your look. Sneakers provide comfort and style.
For a breezy feel, low-cut sneakers or slip-ons work well. They keep your feet comfortable while looking fresh.
Overloading on loud logos—choose subtle branding
Too many big logos can overwhelm your outfit. Flashy brand marks distract from your personal style.
Opt for subtle branding or no logos at all. This helps your look stay clean and polished.
Focus on fit, fabric, and color to let your style shine. Confidence comes from how you wear your clothes, not the labels.
Using too much cologne—go for a light, fresh scent
A heavy hand with cologne can be overpowering. Strong scents might feel like you’re trying too hard.
Choose a light, fresh fragrance. Subtle scents leave a better impression.
Apply sparingly—just a couple of sprays on pulse points. Less is more when it comes to fragrance.
Wearing wrinkled clothes—iron or steam your outfits
Wrinkled clothes can make any outfit look sloppy. Smooth fabrics help you appear more put together.
If you don’t like ironing, use a steamer. It quickly removes wrinkles from most fabrics.
Check your clothes before heading out. A few extra minutes can make a big difference.
Over-accessorizing with cheap jewelry—stick to one statement piece
Too much cheap jewelry can clutter your look. Mismatched pieces take away from your overall style.
Pick one statement piece at a time, like a bold necklace or standout ring. This keeps your outfit balanced.
Investing in a single good-quality item is better than many low-quality accessories. It shows attention to detail without overwhelming your style.
Wearing ill-fitting clothes—get your clothes tailored
Clothes that are too tight or too loose can ruin your appearance. Fit is key to looking polished.
Visit a tailor for adjustments. Properly fitted clothes boost your confidence and comfort.
Tailoring doesn’t have to be expensive. The improvement in how you look and feel is worth it.
Using a flashy phone case—choose minimalist designs
A flashy phone case can distract from your overall style. It may look outdated quickly.
Go for minimalist designs in simple colors and shapes. These cases are timeless and versatile.
Minimalist cases protect your phone and match any setting. They keep your look cohesive.
Wearing sunglasses indoors—save them for outside
Sunglasses indoors can make you seem distant. They block eye contact and affect conversations.
Reserve your shades for outdoor use. If you need indoor eye protection, try clear lenses.
Taking off sunglasses indoors makes you more approachable. It helps others connect with you.
Neglecting grooming—keep nails and hair tidy
Skipping grooming can give a careless impression. Clean, trimmed nails show attention to detail.
Neat hair also makes a difference. Keeping it styled and tidy helps you look put together.
Regular grooming doesn’t take long. A quick trim or wash can boost your appearance and confidence.
Wearing flip-flops everywhere—swap for casual loafers
Flip-flops are comfortable, but they can make you appear too laid-back. They’re fine for the beach but less suitable for most other places.
Casual loafers offer a simple upgrade. They keep your look relaxed while adding a touch of style.
Loafers pair well with jeans, chinos, or shorts. They also provide better foot protection and durability than flip-flops.
