Stylists & Makeup Artists Swear By These Things Under $35 To Make People Look 10x Better

Even the most stylish outfits can be ruined by a crummy pair of shoes. “Nothing looks sloppier than a great outfit and dirty sneakers,” says stylist Liz Teich. And while tossing shoes in the wash rarely does a good job of getting them spotless, Teich does have an easy solution. “This nontoxic cleaner kit is a cult favorite of sneakerheads and stylists like me and gets the job done with minimal effort.”

It comes with everything you’ll need to get your shoes looking like new, including a stiff bristle brush, as well as a bottle of premium cleaning solution. And unlike some kits, this one is suitable for use on all types of material — including vinyl, canvas, leather, suede, and more.

Speaking of shoes, these white sneakers are right on trend. The breathable canvas upper won’t leave your feet sweating, while the rounded toes give them a timeless appearance so that you can wear them throughout multiple seasons. And if you aren’t into pure white? Not a problem, as they’re also available in off-white.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11 Women’s

Few things feel worse than walking around in a pair of jeans that fit poorly — luckily, Teich has just the fix. “If your jeans are too tight or too loose, this under $10 button will fix that in an instant.” You can use it to cinch your jeans tighter or give yourself some extra breathing room depending on where you pin it into your waistband. And since it’s made from high-quality zinc alloy, there’s no need to worry about it rusting over time.

Stains and wrinkles are the top two ways that you can ruin a dress — but static cling comes in at number three. “A clingy dress can ruin an outfit!” explains Teich. “If you’ve ever battled with static in the winter, this product is a lifesaver and without all the chemicals.” It’s formulated with five simple ingredients: distilled water, aloe vera, plant-based soap, glycerin, and salt. And since it’s completely unscented, you won’t have to worry about it conflicting with your body spray or perfume.

There are some garments that belong in every closet. However, if you’re unsure that bodysuits are a true staple? Carla Nelson, a personal stylist, tells Bustle that “bodysuits are fantastic wardrobe pieces everyone needs in their wardrobe!”

This bodysuit in particular is made from a stretchy rayon-spandex blend, making it just as comfortable and breathable as it is stylish. A snap closure on the bottom makes it easy to pull on as well as take off. Plus, many reviewers raved that it “fits perfectly.”

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 19

Dry, flaking skin isn’t ideal — which is why it’s always a good idea to have some lotion at the ready. “I handle a lot of fabrics which makes my hands dry and really craving this silky whipped shea butter blend,” explains TV style expert Michelle Washington. “There are four different scents: lavender, eucalyptus, rose, and vanilla (my favorite is vanilla).” But if you need a little extra convincing that it’s worth the purchase? She goes on to say, “I adore that the shea butter used in the moisturizer is real and unrefined.”

“Styling a swimwear shoot doesn’t mean that only the model needs sunscreen… the stylist needs sunscreen too!” explains Washington. “Those golden sun rays can be relentless and I like to keep my melanated skin healthy and protected.” She goes on to recommend this particular sunscreen, saying, “I love that it dries ‘clear’ and I can wear it alone or under my makeup.”

SPF-30 protection helps shield skin from the sun’s harsh rays — and unlike some sunscreens, this one is made without any oxybenzone or octinoxate. But if that isn’t enough? It also contains avocado and jojoba oil that help moisturize skin, while vitamin E works to help keep it looking bright.

Topping your foundation with a quality setting powder is a must if you want to help keep your look locked in all day long. But if you aren’t sure what kind of setting powder to go with? “I can’t resist products with a stylish food theme...,” says Washington. “This powder is lightweight, I love the feel of the powder texture, it softens my oily complexion, and it’s vegan.” And with six shades to choose from (cacao, almond, caramel, yellow, translucent, or white), you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that matches your skin tone.

If you’re having trouble figuring out what to wear, you can’t go wrong with a button-down shirt. “I swear by a classic, white button-down shirt,” explains personal stylist Kendra Sharpe. “You can thrift this at a thrift store or buy an inexpensive one from Amazon or stores like H&M or Target.” While it may seem like button-downs are primarily for office wear, Sharpe goes on to say that “you can dress it up or down and it will always look timeless.”

There’s no need to go thrifting, however, as this button-down shirt is available for less than $25. It’s made from 100% cotton, making it just as soft and breathable as it is timeless. Plus, the classic fit gives you tons of room to move without leaving it looking baggy.

While colorful sunglasses were popular for a time, you can never go wrong with solid black. “A pair of black sunglasses are a must-have,” says Sharpe. “I think they are an instant classic and they pair nicely with everything in your closet plus they make you look 10x chicer instantly.”

With their trendy cat-eye shape and sub-$20 price tag, there’s no reason why these sunglasses don’t deserve a spot in your closet. The polycarbonate lenses are durable, and feature a protective coating that helps shield your eyes from the sun’s harsh UV rays. And if you can’t bring yourself to commit to a black pair? They’re also available in 12 other colors.

If cat-eye sunglasses aren’t your thing, consider opting for these round ones instead. They come in seven colors to suit any style, including all-black, black lenses with gold frames, as well as fun shades like blue, green, and pink. And while they aren’t polarized, the lenses still feature a protective coating to help block incoming UV rays.

Whether you’re out with friends or headed to the office, there’s a good chance you’ll end up bringing a tote bag with you — the only question is what kind of tote bag is worth your money. According to Sharpe, “A black oversized bag is essential!” Though if you aren’t a fan of black? There’s a reason why Sharpe is a fan, as she goes on to say that “if you get it in a black leather material it looks instantly more expensive than it really is.”

With that in mind, this black tote bag is a perfect example. It’s made from sleek vegan leather, making it look way more pricy than $29 — and the oversized style means there’s tons of space inside for wallets, keys, clothes, or even a laptop. And if you really can’t bring yourself to purchase black, you still have the choice of seven other colors.

Speaking of oversized tote bags, that roomy interior can easily devolve into a jumbled mess — so take a look at this insert. Multiple pockets help you keep all your items organized, while its sturdy walls help it keep its shape. And with 19 colors to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that matches your bag’s inner lining.

If your closet doesn’t already have a denim jacket, consider this a sign it’s time to get one. “A denim jacket is always a go-to for fall,” says Sharpe. “Denim is great for being casual during the day and even for night with a more dressed-up look.” Though if you still need a little convincing, she goes on to explain that “the versatility of this item alone is worth finding a classic one to add to your wardrobe.”

Not only does this particular denim jacket have a touch of spandex for some comfortable stretch, but its relaxed fit also makes it easy to move around in. The low rise gives you just enough coverage when bending over — all while the medium wash ensures it’ll stay in style for years to come.

Available sizes: Small — X-Large

A wrinkled shirt will always look worse than one that’s been freshly ironed. But if you aren’t a fan of ironing? Not a problem, as Helene Cardon, Boulder Colorado's sustainable personal stylist, has an easy alternative. “Taking a few minutes before the week starts to steam fresh laundry is a small effort that will make you appear extremely put together,” she tells Bustle. “You may have great clothes but if they are all wrinkly then you will look frumpy, a pity!”

Luckily, this handheld steamer is currently available for just $30. Its small size means it’s travel-friendly, making it easy to keep your clothes looking fresh when on vacation — and the water tank is still large enough to produce up to 15 minutes of continuous steam.

Cool weather is sweater weather. But if your sweaters are looking a little worse for wear? Fear not, as Cardon has an easy fix: “At the beginning of the fall season reach for your sweater comb and give your favorite sweaters a fresh new look.”

Though if you don’t own a sweater comb, no problem — this one is currently available for less than $15. Its finely spaced teeth grab onto small pills and fuzz, pulling it off your sweaters without damaging the knits. And unlike some sweater combs, this one is suitable for use on all types of fabric, including cashmere.

Sometimes the smallest details make the biggest impact — like a quality pair of earrings. “If your outfit feels a bit plain pull your hair back in a bun and wear a pair of statement earrings,” suggests Cardon. “They will effortlessly bring a lot of interest to your outfit and luminosity and color to your face.”

These earrings in particular are an absolute steal at only $15. The waterdrop shape makes them stand out from your usual hoops and studs — and the hypoallergenic metal is unlikely to irritate skin. And if gold isn’t your preferred metal? You also have the choice of nine other finishes.

You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of earrings, which is only part of the reason why these hoops are worth a look. Not only are they plated with real 18-karat gold, but there are also sparkling cubic zirconia crystals embedded in the front. The hypoallergenic metal is unlikely to irritate skin — and many reviewers raved about how they’re “super cute.”

You don’t have to put your sandals into storage just because temperatures are starting to dip. “Wear your gorgeous summer sandals into fall with a pair of nicer socks,” suggests Cardon. “This is a very modern look, I particularly love the socks and sandals styling with a pleated midi skirt.” And while white socks may seem like an obvious pick, Cardon goes on to explain that “I recommend grey ones because they are easiest to pair with shoes and outfit.”

These particular socks go all the way up to your knees, giving them a more upscale look compared to ankle or mid-calf socks. They’re made from a cotton blend that has a touch of spandex for stretch — and they’re also less likely to slip down your legs throughout the day.

Now that you have some quality socks to wear with your sandals, it’s time to complete the look with this pleated mini skirt. Built-in shorts underneath help keep you covered when bending, while a touch of spandex in the polyester weave gives them some comfortable stretch. The best part? You have dozens of colors to choose from, including classic black, yellow, red, and nearly every shade in between.

Available sizes: X-Small — 4X-Large

Can’t quite figure out what your outfit is missing? The answer may be as simple as a cute neck scarf. “A neck scarf can pull the colours of your outfit together and add a little European Chic at the same time” explains Michelle Barrett, the stylist and founder of Capsule Closet Stylist.

Since this particular neck scarf is available for just $15, you truly don’t have any excuse not to at least check it out. It’s made from 100% mulberry silk, making it just as soft as it is breathable — and you even have dozens of colors and patterns to choose from. And if a neck scarf doesn’t suit your style? You can also wear it around your wrist as a cute bracelet.

You apply lip balm throughout the day, but what about at night? Enter: this sleep mask for your lips. It’s formulated with a blend of vitamin C and antioxidants, which work together to help hydrate chapped skin overnight — and it even comes in a variety of flavors. But if you remain unconvinced? “Hydrated lips are a must and will never go out of style,” explains makeup artist Susie Lynn. “I prep all my clients with this and it’s a cult fave!”

A night of poor sleep can leave your eyes looking tired; luckily, Lynn has a recommendation that can help. “Look refreshed and rested whether you’re bare-faced or prepping for a night out,” she tells Bustle. “These cooling patches are even better when placed in the fridge prior.” Not only can they help soothe puffiness, but a hearty dose of antioxidants also works to nourish skin to help leave it looking supple and smooth. Plus, you only need to wear them for about 10 minutes for best results.

A lack of sun during the winter months can leave your skin looking cold. Thankfully, Lynn has a simple trick that can help. She tells Bustle that “soft sculpt bronzing sticks will add warmth to any skin tone without looking harsh and bronzed out” — and this bronzing stick in particular is definitely worth a look. It delivers a natural finish that you can easily build for a more dramatic look. The creamy formula glides across the skin, regardless of whether you’re wearing foundation. Unlike some sticks, this one contains avocado oil and mango butter, both of which work together to help hydrate skin.

If you aren’t a fan of that bronzer stick, this powder is another easy way to help warm up your skin tone. Its silky-smooth texture lets you build up coverage, making it easy to achieve a lightly sunkissed look as well as a dramatic tan. Plus, the formula even contains minerals that absorb oil to help keep your complexion shine-free.

Believe it or not, a quality set of brushes can make or break how good your makeup turns out. “Even with the best products in your beauty stash, without a solid set of brushes, you’re missing out,” says Lynn. “Real Techniques brush sets are curated for you and make your routine foolproof while not breaking the bank.”

This particular set is available for just $20, making it just as affordable as it is high-quality. The vegan bristles glide across the skin — and each set even includes a beauty sponge to help you blend contour, foundation, as well as other creamy products.

Speaking of makeup brushes, make sure to keep yours in good working condition with help from this washer. It’s designed to fit brushes of nearly any size, whether the handles are thick or thin — and it can even dry as well as wash a brush in less than one minute.

While dermaplaning is a great way to help keep skin looking smooth, it can also be expensive. “Dermaplaning can cost you $150+ on its own, or $30+ as an add-on to a facial service at many medspas,” explains personal stylist Kendra Bissig. “These razors offer an affordable way to clean up facial peach fuzz and keep your skin looking smooth.”

Not only are they affordable, but their stainless steel blades are also resistant to rust — so there’s no need to worry about them corroding over time. But if that isn’t enough? Each razor even comes with an attached safety cover to help keep you from trimming too closely, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Tired of waking up with frizzy hair? Consider swapping out your pillowcases with these silky-smooth ones. “I absolutely swear by silk pillowcases,” says hairstylist Megan Schnell. “They help with the overall health of your hair preventing any friction and breakage while you sleep.” With a luxurious 600 thread count, you can rest assured that they’re just as smooth as they are soft — and you even have the choice of more than 10 colors.

Ripping an elastic hair tie through your strands can lead to breakage, making these satin scrunchies worth a look. “I recommend using a silk scrunchy when wearing your hair up, mainly while you sleep,” explains Schnell. “The silk will not pull or catch on the the hair, preventing breakage.” They’re also less likely to leave creases in your hair, making them suitable for daytime wear — and many reviewers with thick hair even commented on how well they hold up their ponytails.

If you’ve noticed your strands are drier than usual, consider incorporating an oil into your haircare routine. “Adding a hair oil to your routine will improve the health of your hair,” explains Schnell. “I recommend having a travel-size hair oil in your purse, if your hair feels dry add a pea-sized amount of oil to your ends- like a lipgloss, for added hydration and silky hair.”

This particular hair oil is formulated with Kalahari melon seed, which helps protect your strands from environmental damage, as well as further moisture loss. Tahitian gardenia flower also works to strengthen weak strands — and a manufacturer survey even found that 98% of users found their hair feeling silkier after eight hours of wear.

A quality shampoo is worth its weight in gold, especially if you color your hair. “If you are wanting to upgrade one hair care product, my recommendation is shampoo,” says Schnell. “I recommend sulfate-free shampoo.” She goes on to explain that “a quality sulfate-free shampoo will maintain your hair color, add shine and overall softness to your hair.”

With that in mind, this shampoo and conditioner set from L’Oreal is absolutely worth a look. Not only is it formulated without sulfates, but it can also help keep color-treated hair looking vibrant for up to four weeks. Plus, the hints of cedar, bergamot, and rose leave you smelling oh-so-fresh.

When no amount of teasing or spray seems to lift your limp roots, consider trying out these hair rollers. “Hair curler rollers for the fullest look!” says Aimee Carr, Voodoo Makeup founder and clean beauty formulation expert. Since these particular curlers don’t require any heat, they’re incredibly easy to use. According to Carr, “Make sure your hair is damp prior to doing this and wake up with beautiful full curls with zero damage.” They’re also suitable for all types of hair and come with a set of stainless steel duckbill clips to help keep them firmly in place.

Having your teeth professionally whitened can cost a pretty penny — instead, Carr recommends this serum. “We have all seen it and it actually works!” she tells Bustle. And while some whitening serums require you to let them soak into your teeth, Carr goes on to say that it’s “quick and easy to use!” Simply add two pumps to your toothbrush, then brush as you normally would for two minutes. And while some whiteners rely on harsh peroxides, this one uses purple pigments to cancel out yellow undertones, leaving you with a whiter smile.