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55 Common Mistakes That You Don't Realize Make You Look Tacky — & What To Do Instead

Have no fear, your quick fixes are here.

by Caroline Reinstadtler
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
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Hair and makeup mistakes are a common part of life. However, you might not even realize there are surprisingly easy fixes out there that can help you avoid any tacky blunders. These solutions will give you an instant confidence boost for not a lot of money. In fact, many of these cost less than $15.

1

Mistake: Wearing Elastic Bands Around Your Wrist

Solution: Hair Elastics That Look Just Like Jewelry

Accessorize any look with these hair elastics. With stylish charms, they double as bracelets. Their stretchy material holds your ponytail without pulling your hair. Each pack has five elastics, so you can mix and match — or wear them all at once for a layered look.

  • Available sizes: Small — Large
  • Available colors: 10

2

Mistake: Leaving Deodorant Stains On Your Clothing

Solution: A 2-Pack Of Deodorant Remover Sponges

These deodorant remover sponges are a white shirt’s best friend. Gently rub the underarms of your shirts and tank tops to get rid of stains. You can use them dry, or get them wet for an extra powerful clean. When you buy, you’ll receive two sponges to keep even more clothes clean. They work on fabrics in every color of the rainbow.

3

Mistake: Layering Long Necklaces That Tangle & Knot

Solution: A Clever Spacer That Gives Jewelry Some Extra Breathing Room

Take care of your jewelry with this clever spacer. It separates necklaces while you wear them, so your chains won't tangle. Made of stainless steel and plated with 18-karat gold, it looks much more expensive than it is. You can also wear it in the ocean or to the gym. Use it with three to six necklaces at a time.

4

Mistake: Settling For Shapeless Clothes

Solution: A Cinch Clip That Gives Tired Styles A Brand New Look

This cinch clip breathes new life into old clothes. Use it to cinch dresses, skirts, and tops for a more form-fitted look. Its clear plastic material blends into your clothes so well that people might not even realize it’s there. Each kit comes with eight rings in four different sizes. You can also use it to hold accessories in place — just don’t forget to remove it before laundry day.

5

Mistake: Letting Flyaways Steal The Show

Solution: A Hair Tamer Stick That’s Easy To Keep In A Bag

Slicked-back ponytails are all the rage, and this hair tamer stick gets you in on the trend. It's made with beeswax, jojoba, and avocado oil. These ingredients hold flyaways down, keeping buns and ponytails in perfect shape. Just brush it on with the easy-to-use applicator for smooth and shiny results.

6

Mistake: Using Tight Elastic Bands That Can Cause Breakage

Solution: A Set Of Pure Silk Scrunchies

For long and strong hair, look no further than these Mulberry silk scrunchies. Their luxe material is soft on hair, minimizing breakage for healthy growth. They also help minimize ponytail bumps. They come in a four-pack and are good for all hair types — they’d even make a great little gift.

7

Mistake: Letting Your Hair Get Greasy & Flat

Solution: A Dry Powder Shampoo That Can Make Things Easier

If you don't have time to wash your hair, give this dry powder shampoo a try. It works without potentially harmful aerosol sprays. Instead, you can simply shake it onto your scalp, then massage it into your mane. Its compact design is perfect for touch-ups on the go, and its soothing scent of lavender oil is hard not to love.

8

Mistake: Wearing Shoes That Are Just A Little Too Snug

Solution: A Clever Shoe Stretcher That Can Help You Get A Better Fit

This clever shoe stretcher seems like it was invented by Mary Poppins. If your shoes are too snug, just adjust your stretchers to the right size, then put them in your footwear. In just 24 hours, you can start wearing those shoes. They also come with odor-eliminating bags. Made of polyurethane and metal, they’re designed to last.

9

Mistake: Settling For Clumpy Mascara

Solution: An Eyelash Comb That Adds Definition & Volume

Bring your eye look to the next level with this eyelash comb. Its fine bristles separate lashes while removing clumps of mascara. Small and lightweight, it's travel-friendly, and it comes with a protective cover. Made with easy-to-clean stainless steel, its slight bend in its handle makes it more ergonomic.

10

Mistake: Getting Sweaty Feet Every Time You Go Sockless

Solution: No-Show Shoe Liner Socks That Will Give You The Look While Keeping Feet Fresh

These no-show socks keep feet clean and dry. Slip them into your shoes, and they'll create a moisture-wicking barrier between your feet and insoles. They’re a great choice for ballet flats, and also add some extra cushion to your shoes. “Repurchased multiple times,” said one reviewer. “I love love love these!”

  • Available sizes: Small, Large
  • Available colors: 4

11

Mistake: Wearing Too Much Perfume

Solution: A Popular Body Mist With A Light Beachy Smell

This popular body mist has a light, tropical scent that transports your senses to the beach. With notes of dragonfruit, orange blossom, and tuberose, it smells delicious without overpowering the people around you. It's made without potential irritants, including parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Spritz it on after moisturizing for a beachy glow.

12

Mistake: Letting Heavy Earrings Stretch Your Piercings

Solution: Supportive Patches To Protect Your Lobes

Heavy earrings can leave piercings stretched, but these patches are the fix. Tiny and transparent, the circular patches stick onto the backs of your lobes with the help of strong, skin-safe adhesive, to support your lobes and help prevent stretching and tearing.

13

Mistake: Wearing Undies That Show Through Your Clothes

Solution: A Fan-Favorite Multipack Of Seamless Thongs

Undies that show through your clothes can distract from an otherwise great look — but these thongs are crafted from seamless micro mesh, so they’ll remain virtually undetectable. The mid-rise design is such a fan-favorite, the five-pack has over 54,000 5-star ratings.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors 10

14

Mistake: Wearing Pants That Are Too Long

Solution: A Hem Adhesive That Shortens Without Sewing

Tailor your pants at home with this hem adhesive. Just turn them inside out, roll them up to the desired length, and iron this tape on. It creates a flawless hem in a matter of minutes. Use it on lightweight fabrics like cotton, rayon, and linen. Heat activates its adhesive properties, so it won't budge.

15

Mistake: Wearing Leggings With Uncomfortable Seams

Solution: Thong Undies With Discreet Smoothing Gussets

Leggings with a front seam can dig into your, ahem, delicate areas — but not with these thongs. Crafted from seamless, stretchy fabric, the mid-rise design features a discreet pad sewn into the gusset, to prevent an uncomfortable digging, and create a smooth silhouette.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 18

16

Mistake: Letting Too-Shiny Skin Distract From Your Makeup Look

Solution: Blurring Powder For A Matte Finish That Still Lets Your Glow Show

Too-shiny skin can distract from a gorgeous makeup look; this Korean blurring powder stops shine and helps absorb excess oil, while still letting your glow show. Thanks to a fine mesh covering it’s easy to control the amount of product dispensed; then use the handy puff wherever needed.

17

Mistake: Accidentally Burning Clothes With An Iron

Solution: A Portable Steamer That Removes Wrinkles In A Gentler Way

Delicate fabrics call for this portable steamer. With its 9-foot power cord, you can use it even if you're far from an outlet. It removes wrinkles from chiffon, silk, linen, and more, leaving behind a smooth finish. You won’t need to refill its tank until 15 minutes after you start steaming, and it’s light enough to travel with.

18

Mistake: Neglecting Wardrobe Staples

Solution: A Timeless Button-Down White Shirt To Balance Your Trendy Pieces

If you love cultivating an on-trend wardrobe, you might be neglecting the basics — like this button-down white shirt. Crafted from a cotton blend, the long-sleeve notch collar design is a timeless piece that’ll help ground your trendier looks; plus it’ll never go out of style.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 5X-Large
  • Available colors: 38

19

Mistake: Letting Bra Straps Hang Out Of Outfits

Solution: Adjusters That Quickly Customize Your Look

There’s no shame in the bra strap game, but if you want to hide yours, use these adjusters. They conceal straps behind tops and dresses. Their ergonomic design keeps straps from digging into your shoulders. Extra lift and support, of course, don't hurt. This kit also comes with extenders, which can give your bras more breathing room in seconds.

20

Mistake: Staying Up Too Late Before A Big Day

Solution: Under-Eye Patches To Help You Look More Awake & Refreshed

So you stayed up all night to prepare for that presentation... try these under-eye patches in the morning. Infused with collagen and amino acids, they refresh tired skin for a well-rested glow (minus the rest). They're also made with castor oil and chamomile extract, and feel extra good if you put them in the refrigerator before use.

21

Mistake: Forgetting To Set Your Makeup Before A Long Night Out

Solution: An Easy-To-Use Spray That Gently Locks In Your Look

If you've got a long night ahead of you, reach for this easy-to-use spray. It sets your makeup in place with a dewy finish. This can help each product last longer, even when you’re sweating at a club or bar. It's also made with niacinamide, which can help with brightness and texture, and also provides a boost of hydration after use.

22

Mistake: Using Boring Elastics To Pull Your Hair Back

Solution: Claw Clips In A Tortoiseshell Print That’ll Elevate Your Look

Boring hair elastics can lead to sagging ponytails, which can drag down your whole look — but these chic tortoiseshell claw clips elevate your look rather than detract from it. Crafted from smooth acrylic resin, a strong spring and interlocking teeth keep your ‘do stylish and secure.

23

Mistake: Forgetting To Brush Your Teeth Before Leaving The House

Solution: Finger Wipes You Can Keep In Your Purse Or Car

If you've run out the door without brushing your teeth, reach for these finger wipes. Their textured surface removes plaque and film, leaving behind a minty fresh taste. Safe for people with sensitive teeth and gums, each box comes with 24 individually wrapped wipes.

24

Mistake: Ignoring Cracked & Dry Lips

Solution: An Overnight Moisturizing Treatment That Deeply Hydrates

The number one cure for chapped lips is hydration; the next best thing is an overnight moisturizing treatment like this one. It's made with kukui oil, grapeseed oil, and shea butter. These ingredients are rich in vitamins A, C, and E for serious hydration. Its formula is cruelty-free and certified as such by the Leaping Bunny Program.

25

Mistake: Tanning For A Gorgeous Glow

Solution: A Self-Tanner That Works Just As Well Without Damage

Tanning beds are so passé (and dangerous), but this self-tanner is safe and always in style. If you're looking for an especially dark tan, this is the formula for you. Developing in about an hour, the longer you leave it on, the deeper your tan will become. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and according to one reviewer, “the only product I have ever used that gave me the results it said it would.”

26

Mistake: Using A Dangerous Blade To Remove Fine Facial Hair

Solution: A Facial Hair Remover That Won’t Nick Your Skin

Using a dangerous blade to remove fine facial hair can lead to nicks and cuts, but this facial hair remover’s spinning head skims over the surface of the skin, gently removing unwanted hair while leaving your skin unmarred. Compact and USB-chargeable, it’s ultra handy for travel.

27

Mistake: Ignoring Small Tears & Snags

Solution: A Sewing Kit That Helps You Quickly Patch Things Up

Small snags can make a big impact; stitch them up with this sewing kit. It includes 30 needles, 18 thread colors, and a pair of scissors, among other essentials. It also has a sturdy zipper to ensure everything stays inside. It’s no wonder that it currently holds an overall score of 4.6 stars on Amazon.

28

Mistake: Tripping Over Untied Shoelaces

Solution: Swapping Them For Elastic No-Tie Laces

These elastic no-tie laces take the hassle out of your favorite footwear. Just lace them into your sneakers or shoes, then tighten their screw lock. You'll be able to go about your whole day without stopping to retie. Their elastic material stretches and conforms to your feet for a comfortable fit. They're also great for runners who don’t have time to pause during a race.

29

Mistake: Letting Dirty Makeup Brushes Ruin Your Look

Solution: A Clever Sponge That Removes Color In Just 3 Seconds

Create the makeup looks of your dreams with this makeup-remover sponge. When you’re finished with a product, wipe your brushes back and forth over the sponge to eliminate pigments and powders in just three seconds. Arriving in a pack of two, they come in metal tins with lids, which are great for travel.

30

Mistake: Curling Your Hair With Heat Every Day

Solution: A Gentler Heatless Curler Set That Can Help Prevent Damage

Take care of your hair with this heatless curling set. Simply wrap your hair around the rod, then secure it with the included scrunchies. You’ll wake up with voluminous curls. The set is made of satin, which actually helps protect hair from damage while you sleep. Over 15,000 Amazon reviewers gave it five stars.

31

Mistake: Wearing Loose Pants That No Longer Fit Correctly

Solution: An Adjustable Waist Buckle Set That’s Simple To Use

Tailor your clothes with this adjustable waist buckle set. Pin them anywhere on your waistband, and then interlock them for a snug fit. Their metal material blends in with the hardware on your jeans. Each order comes with 10 buckle sets total, so you’ll be set for quite some time.

32

Mistake: Forgetting To Clean Your Shoes

Solution: Portable Cleaners That Just Need Water To Activate

If your dirty shoes aren’t machine-washable, don’t fret — try these instant sole cleaners instead. Just add water, and they'll wipe dirt and stains away, with minimal effort on your part. Each sponge has a scouring pad on one side and a dense sponge on the other. Since they’re pocket-sized, you can always have one on hand when your kicks need a refresh.

33

Mistake: Not Having The Right Brushes On Hand

Solution: A 4-In-1 Brush That’ll Ensure You’re Covered

This four-in-one brush works with creams, powders, liquids, and more. With four replaceable heads, it can take the place of up to eight makeup brushes. It includes a foundation brush, an eyeshadow brush, and an eyeliner — and that’s just the beginning. All of its bristles are vegan and cruelty-free.

34

Mistake: Wearing A Bra That Doesn’t Fit Properly

Solution: A Bra In Stretchy Seamless Fabric That Molds To Your Shape

An ill-fitting bra is uncomfortable, and it can shift underneath clothing, distracting from your look; this bra is crafted from seamless fabric with plenty of stretch, so it’ll mold to your shape. Designed with hook & eye closure and adjustable straps, this bra makes it a cinch to get the right fit.

  • Available sizes: Small — 4X-Large
  • Available colors: 13

35

Mistake: Not Seeing Your Look From All Angles

Solution: A Mirror With A 360-Degree Viewing Angle

For a more precise hair and makeup styling, try this mirror. Its 360-degree design lets you see your look from every angle. Made of anti-fog glass, it makes your reflection crystal clear. It’s easy to hang on your wall or prop it up on your bathroom counter, and it also serves as a helpful accessory if you trim your own hair at home.

36

Mistake: Letting Your Nails Become Rough & Jagged

Solution: A Long-Lasting Glass Nail File That Comes With Its Own Case

Touch up your manicure with this glass nail file. Made of sturdy glass, it won't wear down over time. It shapes and strengthens nails for salon-quality touch-ups at home, and comes in a sleek carrying case for easy travel. “Best nails I've ever had,” said one reviewer. “The file leaves minimal residue and works quickly. You don't have to file back [and] forth; it takes just a couple of strokes in one direction to shape the nail.”

37

Mistake: Accidentally Dressing Too Casually For An Event

Solution: A Polished Cardigan To Pull Your Look Together Instantly

This handy cardigan is great to have on hand if you’re worried about dressing a little too casually. Made of viscose and nylon, it's absurdly stretchy and soft. Its oversized buttons hold it in place, covering up necklines that might not be right for the occasion. You can launder it by hand or in the washing machine.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 26

38

Mistake: Wearing Tricky Tops & Dresses With A Traditional Bra

Solution: Sticky Nipple Covers Made From Silicone

These sticky nipple covers give you fashion freedom like you’ve never known. Made of soft silicone, they won't irritate sensitive skin. Their strong adhesive stays in place all night long, whether you're hitting the dance floor or the couch. Best of all, they’re easy to clean — just rinse them under warm water and let them air-dry.

39

Mistake: Letting Your Smart Watch Distract From Your Look

Solution: A Chic Tortoiseshell Band That Turns Your Watch Into Jewelry

Enjoy all the technological advantages of your smart watch without sacrificing style by adding this clever watch band; crafted from smooth resin in a chic tortoiseshell print, the water-resistant design fits around your smartwatch, with a folding clasp to keep it securely in place.

40

Mistake: Wearing Clothes That Don’t Feel Fully Clean

Solution: Washing Machine Tabs To Make Sure Each Wash Session Is More Efficient

If your clothes aren’t getting clean after laundry day, try these washing machine tabs. They break down residue and grime while helping your machine run more smoothly. Just toss one in, then run a normal cycle with hot water. These tabs are compatible with machines of all brands and designs, and they’ve earned over 90,000 five-star reviews from Amazon customers.

41

Mistake: Waiting Too Long Between Salon Visits

Solution: Root Touch-Up Powder That Matches Your Hair

If you’ve waited too long for that salon visit and your roots are showing, this touch-up powder is a game-changer. It comes in eight variations of blonde and brunette; use the brush tip to pat onto your roots for a fresh-from-the-salon look that resists water and sweat — you can even swim in it

42

Mistake: Wearing Shoes That Have Seen Better Days

Solution: A Shoe Glue That Can Make Your Soles Stronger

If you don't want to let go of your favorite pair, try this shoe glue. It sticks to leather, rubber, vinyl, and canvas, withstanding long walks and athletic activities. Drying fast, it lets you walk in your shoes just 24 hours after application. It's permanent and waterproof, and great for sneakers, boots, hiking shoes, and more.

43

Mistake: Wearing A Daring Look Without The Right Support

Solution: Fashion Tape That Can Ensure You’re Always Covered

From dresses that fly up to necklines that slide down, this fashion tape can help. Its double-sided adhesive sticks to fabrics and skin, preventing wardrobe malfunctions. It won’t irritate skin and lasts for hours on end. Each strap is 0.5 inches wide and 3 inches long, proving that good things come in small packages.

44

Mistake: Choosing The Wrong Shades Of Makeup

Solution: A Lipstick That Works With Your pH

Customize your look with this lipstick. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, it changes color according to your pH levels. Your personalized shade of pink will go on silky smooth and hydrate while you wear it. Best of all, it has a real chrysanthemum flower inside.

45

Mistake: Letting Dull Nails Ruin Your Overall Look

Solution: Translucent Pink Nail Polish For A Natural-Looking Shine

Polished nails can do so much to elevate your look — and this transparent pink nail polish delivers a natural-looking shine, no salon visit required. The delicate pink shade enhances the tone of your own nail color, delivering a chip-resistant finish that can last for over a week.

46

Mistake: Leaving The House With Greasy Hair

Solution: Oil-Absorbing Powder That Leaves Hair Fresh & Voluminous

You might not have time for a shower, but this hair powder can be sprayed on roots to absorb oil and leave hair looking and feeling fresh. Formulated with aloe vera, coconut oil, and vitamin E, the easy-to-use product hydrates and can even add volume; it’ll become a mainstay.

47

Mistake: Not Accessorizing Your Outfit

Solution: A Faux Leather Belt That Pulls Your Look Together

By adding this belt to your outfit, you can pull your look together in an instant. Crafted from faux leather and accented by gold-toned hardware, the simple design defines your shape and adds visual interest; simply add shoes or a bag in the same shade for easy coordination.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 23

48

Mistake: Neglecting Your Scalp When Washing Your Hair

Solution: An Exfoliating Brush That’ll Become The Best Part Of Your Shower

Neglecting your scalp when shampooing can lead to dandruff and product residue build-up; enter this brush. The ergonomic design features a handy loop for your finger, and flexible multi-height bristles to stimulate the scalp and scrub away debris; it’ll be the best part of your shower.

49

Mistake: Thinking You Need To Visit A Salon For Callus-Free Feet

Solution: Callus-Removing Gel With Over 42,000 5-Star Ratings

There’s no need to visit a salon for callus-free feet; this callus-remover gel does the work for you for far less money, and just as silky-smooth results. The scent-free formula works in minutes to remove rough, dead skin — and it’s so popular it’s got over 42,000 5-star ratings.

50

Mistake: Letting Your Precious Gems Get Dingy

Solution: A Jewelry Cleaner Stick That Has Shoppers Obsessed

Don’t let your precious gems when this jewelry cleaner stick makes it so easy to clean them. Boasting over 44,000 5-star ratings, the pen-sized stick dispenses a cleansing gel that removes dirt and oil, with a compact brush head that can even fit under hard-to-clean prongs.

51

Mistake: Not Adding A Textured Piece To Your Outfit

Solution: A Short-Sleeve Sweater In A Rich-Looking Cable Knit

Without varying textures, an outfit can seem a bit bland; in a rich cable knit, this short-sleeve sweater adds texture to your look, with a notch collar and a split neckline for even more visual interest. Otherwise minimal, the easy-fitting silhouette will pair with tons of pieces in your wardrobe.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 26

52

Mistake: Letting Long Nails Get In The Way Of Adding Jewelry

Solution: Magnetic Clasps That Make It So Easy To Put On Necklaces & Bracelets

Don’t let long nails impede your accessorizing game; this 6-pack of clasps make it easy to put on necklaces or bracelets. Crafted from gold-toned metal with a lobster clasp, they fit onto the ends of your jewelry, with strong magnets on either end that immediately grab on; all you have to do is reach around.

53

Mistake: Wearing Wrinkled Clothes When You Travel

Solution: A Travel-Size Iron That Fits In Your Suitcase

Few things can detract from a great vacation ‘fit like wrinkled clothes; this travel iron weighs less than a pound, and the compact size is easy to fit even in a carry-on. The plug-in design heats up in just 60 seconds, so you can have wrinkle-free clothes in a flash.

54

Mistake: Forgetting To Prime Your Skin Before Putting On Makeup

Solution: A Primer That Brightens & Evens Skin Tone For Flawless Makeup Looks

By applying this primer before makeup, you can brighten skin and smooth texture — and it has lavender and mint tones, so if you’re looking to minimize redness, or help a blemish blend in with the rest of your skin, this product will be your hero.

55

Mistake: Overdoing It At The Med Spa

Solution: Forehead Patches That Promote Smooth Skin Without Any Injections

It can be easy to get carried away at the med spa, and left with a frozen forehead; infused with collagen, these forehead patches help hydrate the skin, leaving a glowing and smooth surface that’s still expressive. They only need to be left on for 20 minutes — easy peasy.

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