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fashion

KajoTries: 5 homemade beauty remedies and they actually worked

You have seen homemade beauty remedies on Pinterest and various social media. You have heard people testify them.

Yet, you have never tried them yourself.

Fret not, here are some homemade beauty remedies tried and tested by KajoMag:

1. Coconut oil as hair mask

Massage your scalp with coconut oil before going to bed. Rinse out with shampoo the next morning.

Continue this routine for weeks and you will notice that your hair will become less frizzy.

Coconut oil helps to moisturise and smoothen hair.

homemade beauty remedies
Coconut oil as one of homemade beauty remedies. Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya.

2. Butter as lip conditioner

If you have chapped lips, this is the most simple and cheapest homemade beauty product for you.

Before going to bed, apply a thin layer of butter on your lips. (Yes, you read right.) Even margarine will do.

Be prepared to wake up with soft and luscious lips.

Besides butter, coconut oil is also good for dry and cracked lips. Apply it on your lips several times a day.

KajoTries: 5 homemade beauty remedies and they actually worked
Apply a thin layer of butter on your lips before going to bed. Credit: Pixabay.

3. Homemade nose pore strip

All you need is one egg white and a paper towel.

Dip the paper towel into the egg white and place it on your nose. Then wait for it to dry.

The best part of this homemade beauty product is that it is affordable and it works.

The disadvantages of using this? You have to bear with the smell of egg while waiting for it to dry. Plus, it takes longer than your usual store-bought nose pore strip. But think of the savings!

KajoTries: 5 homemade beauty remedies and they actually worked
Use white egg to make your own homemade nose pore strip.

4. Apple cider vinegar facial toner

First of all, this homemade beauty product is not suitable for everybody, especially those with sensitive skin.

However, for some, apple cider vinegar works wonders as a facial toner.

You can find many different ratios of apple cider vinegar to water mixtures online.

If you are not sure which ratio works best with you, start with one part apple cider vinegar to four parts water first.

Then slowly adjust the ratio according to your preference.

Apply the toner to your cleansed face with a cotton pad, avoiding the eye area.

After several weeks, your face should feel smoother and tighter.

5. Foot scrub

The basic formula for homemade scrub is one cup of white or brown sugar and a quarter cup of olive, almond or coconut oil.

Simply try to mix and match your own ingredients with your preferred essential oil.

We have tried mixing one cup of white sugar and a quarter cup coconut oil with a few drops of lavender essential oil.

Our verdict: the smell of coconut may overpower the lavender but it scrubs away dead skin just fine.

Other concoctions you can try are brown sugar, olive oil and orange essential oil or white sugar, olive oil and peppermint essential oils.

6 essential handbags for the everyday influential fashionista

Tennis player Maria Sharapova once said, “I want my handbags and my shoes to be stylish but I want to make sure that they’re versatile. I travel and I have to make sure the pieces I put into my bag can go with a dress or with shorts or jeans.”

Surely, there are many women out there who can relate with Sharapova when it comes to handbags. We’re not just carrying small everyday items anymore, we’re carrying our work essentials like our smartphones, our tablets, our notebooks, and even our power banks!

Nowadays, a handbag needs to be practical without sacrificing fashion.

Choose the perfect handbags for your needs. Credit: Pixabay.
Choose the perfect handbag for your needs. Credit: Pixabay.

If you are stuck when it comes to choosing a handbag, here is a guideline of what types of handbags out there will suit all your uses.

1. Tote bag

handbags
A good old tote bag is definitely one of the must-have handbags. Photo by Sueda Dilli:

If it is a large bag with a wide mouth which usually comes unfastened or at least with a single magnetic closure, that is what they call a tote bag.

The word ‘tote’ means ‘to carry’ and can be traced back to the 17th century, but it wasn’t until the 19th century when the tote bag itself became a thing.

Tote bags can look totes sleek (think the Birkin bag), smart casual (like the slouchy tote bag) or great for a day-trip at the beach.

Apart from being widely used as a day bag for work, a tote bag is also the best on-the-go bag for a shopping trip.

It is simply because you can stuff everything inside.

2. Bucket bag

essential handbags
According to us, one of the must-have handbags is definitely a bucket bag. Photo by Tal Gold

As the name goes, a bucket bag is shaped like a bucket with a stretchable opening. It’s usually fastened with a tie and makes quick work of opening and closing instead of a zip.

If you are opting for more of a casual look, the bucket bag is perfect for you.

It looks less polished than the formal-looking tote bag but it’s single compartment and its barrel-shape makes it easy for you to toss in a lot of things, including odd-shaped objects like a water bottle.

3. Cross-body bag

handbags
You can never go wrong with a crossbody bag. Photo by Berna:

This bag comes with a long, sturdy strap that enables it to be worn across the body.

The perfect cross-body bag should be able to fit your necessities such as your wallet, smartphone and some makeup essentials such as compact powder and lipstick.

This is perfect for the girl who wants some freedom of movement and needs to keep their important things close.

4. Wristlet

A wristlet is an upgraded version of a clutch which allows you to keep strictly to your essentials.

It comes with a straplet for you to loop around your wrist and is perfect for you to bring out for a night on the town and dance freely.

5. Hobo

A hobo bag is a crescent-shaped handbag made from soft, slouchy materials and a single strap.

It’s called a hobo bag because it looks like the shape of the bundle on a stick that you see hobos in cartoons carry over their shoulder.

It is perfect for those who are not fans of rectangular or squarish-looking bags and prefer something with softer material.

6. Evening clutch

A clutch is what you need to complete your evening look. It is a bag that you simply need to ‘clutch’ onto during a formal dinner.

Pick a simple black or gold clutch for a timeless style or go wild with a pop of colour.

Invest in a good quality clutch because this is one fashion item we could use over and over again.

How many times do we get to wear our evening gowns anyway?

Are you looking for more fashion inspiration? Here are 10 K-dramas to watch for some fashion-inspo.

BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour

BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour

Every fashion lover would know that accessories such as a statement necklace or earrings would elevate their overall look.

In Sarawak, we have an affinity for our Borneo beads as the choice of fashion accessories.

The Borneo International Beads Conference 2019 (BIBCo 2019) promised everything any bead and fashion lovers would adore; fashion, glamour, opulent looks and of course, extravagant beads.

Held for the sixth time, BIBCo 2019 took place from 4th to 6th October in Kuching.

It featured Kuala Lumpur designer Bill Keith and Sarawak contemporary bead designers Lucille Awen Jon and Juliana Ambrose.

Also making an appearance on the runway was Livan Gallery.

The 6th edition of BIBCO also featured international bead and costumes designers; Chris Lim Zamora (Philippines), Floor Kaspers (Netherlands), Elaine Robnett Moore (USA) and Florence Wee (Australia).

The Gala Nite also showcased traditional Laos weaving in Luang Prabang by The Weaving Sisters from Laos.

BIBCo 2019 Gala Nite was officiated by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Sarawak, YB Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

Here are some of the memorable looks showcased during BIBCo 2019:

BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A model wearing ‘marik empang’, a traditional Iban outer garment worn around the shoulder made out of beads and cotton strings
  • BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
  • BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A cardigan with beautiful patterns by the Weaving Sisters from Laos
  • BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
  • BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
Fabulous multi strand opera beaded necklace paired with an extravagant black dress and magnificent headpiece
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A statement beaded matinee necklace to elevate your look
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
An interesting golden beaded multi strand opera necklace/earrings served with an equally elaborate headpiece to complete the look
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A beaded choker necklace for a classic-modern look
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A whimsical yet elegant choker necklace for a more boho chic look
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
For those who are feeling adventurous and over the top, they might appreciate this one-of-a-kind multi strand elongate opera necklace
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A bold sunshine yellow beaded choker that is sure to demand attention
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A elongated chunky beaded choker l nicely paired with a halter dress to emphasize its intricate details
BIBCo 2019: Bead-azzling Night of Fashion and Glamour
A carefully tangled multi strand black and white necklace to elevate any look

5 inspiring looks from the Alta Moda Sarawak runway

Fashion has come a long way in Sarawak. With Alta Moda Sarawak, we could be looking at Kuching becoming a fashion hub over the next few years as the three-day fashion show which ran from March 7-9 at the Old DUN Building showcased the best Sarawak designers had to offer when it came to creativity, passion and an eye for beauty.

What separates Sarawak fashion designers from the rest of the world is their commitment to showcasing Sarawak’s heritage, whether it’s in fabric print or clothing designs. Here are some key looks which rocked the AMS runway!

  1. Go tribal with ethnic print

Nothing says ‘Sarawak’ more than Orang Ulu tree of life patterns, bunga terung motifs and the Melanau terindak designs. Borneonative, Lentera Astana, Latip’s Collections, Najla Shoes cleverly combined these patterns with modern styles, giving these traditional motifs a fresh and unique look as well as celebrating Sarawak’s unique culture and heritage.   

2. Tropicana

One of the most fashionable ways to deal with the tropical heat is in a light flowy dress or a kaftan. Langkawi Hub, Kaftan by IndiaX Tanoti, Anannasa by Sher Lo and Sab2 by Sabrina Bujang made loose-flowing gowns and shifts fashionable and timeless with their cheerful patterns and bright colours.

3. Mix up your fabrics and colours!

Have fun with your eclectic wardrobe – mix stripes with floral patterns, brocade with chiffon! Tom Abang Saufi, Anna Sue and Melor by Melinda Omar layered their beautiful and contrasting fabrics together, creating elegant outfits perfect for high-tea with friends or a Saturday afternoon out.

4. Embrace your uber-feminine self!

Von Jolly Couture, Paul Carling and Erwan Asbor celebrated the feminine body with their elegant, form-fitting gowns. True to the fashion house’s style, Von Jolly Couture combined traditional motifs in their contemporary, head-turning gowns while Paul Carling’s designs celebrated the female form with its form flattering gowns and sexy slits. Erwan Asbor’s collection created drama and flair with its form-fitting, mermaid gowns.

5. Update your kebayas

Tom Abang Saufi’s updated kebaya designs referenced the simple kimono, creating a lighter more casual look for one of Malaysia’s iconic traditional outfits. Teamed with obi-style belts, punchy fabric prints and a loose-fitting style, these kebayas look elegant yet relaxed at the same time.

Alta Moda Sarawak could be a successful yearly event for Sarawak: Abdul Karim

While Sarawak has firmly established itself as THE place to go for world music, and as a Culture, Adventure and Nature destination (did you know Gunung Mulu National Park was a UNESCO World Heritage site?), it aims to be the leading fashion hub in this region with the upcoming lifestyle and fashion event ALTA MODA SARAWAK.

Sarawak Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said he was confident that ALTA MODA SARAWAK would become a successful yearly event to promote the state as a leading fashion hub in Asean and beyond.

“The fashion industry is a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide. This is because it involves a big group of people coming from all work and backgrounds, including those from production to design and marketing.

“There are also those who are making a good living out of writing, analyzing, shooting, commenting and blogging about fashion,” he said during a recent press conference at Restaurant Budaya Sarawak.

He added that the event could attract potential tourism and merchandise buyers domestically and internationally in support of Sarawakian designers and artists.

“It is therefore good for ALTA MODA SARAWAK to have the objective of promoting Sarawak as a state of diversity with different ethnic groups and cultures.”

Additionally, Abdul Karim believed that the event could be one of the catalysts and key players in helping to boost tourist traffic to Sarawak under the state’s tourism initiatives, which is why the Ministry suggested moving it from October last year to March 2019.

“This is to give more time for the organisers to make it a grand affair in conjunction with our ‘Visit Sarawak Campaign’ objectives.”

He also noted that ALTA MODA SARAWAK might be one of the last few events to be held at the old State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Building before it will be closed for renovations to transform it into a performing arts centre.

Alta Moda Sarawak could be a successful yearly event for Sarawak: Abdul Karim
Abdul Karim (center) speaking to the press at Restaurant Budaya Sarawak on Feb 2.
ALTA MODA SARAWAK as a brand platform for Sarawak’s designers

The Sarawak fashion industry has seen a gradual boom over recent years.

Abdul Karim said, “We too have our very own designers whose meteoric rise is something to be proud of. These include names like Paul Carling, Anna Sue, Ben Nazry, Melinda Omar, Sereni & Shentel, Latip’s Collection and more. With ALTA MODA SARAWAK, I hope that their star continues to rise.”

The organisers of ALTA MODA SARAWAK are confident that the designers taking part will be able to establish themselves as the fashion and lifestyle brands to be reckoned with and help propel the growth of Sarawak’s fashion industry.

“This development will, in return, be able to attract more tourist traffic into Sarawak and create demand for a growing domestic industry among the talented artisans and skillful beads craftsmen,” he said.

Meanwhile, ALTA MODA SARAWAK organising chairperson Datin Esther Mujan Balan said the organising team was excited to be holding the event in conjunction with Visit Sarawak Campaign, with the support and partnership from the Ministry of Tourism Sarawak and Sarawak Tourism Board.

“We are determined and focused for ALTA MODA SARAWAK to be a successful yearly event to promote Sarawak as a leading fashion hub in Southeast Asia and attract potential tourism and merchandise buyers domestically and internationally for our Sarawakian designers and artists.”

She stated, “Another objective of the event is to provide up and rising Sarawakian designers the opportunity to make their mark in their own country rather than having to go abroad to make a name for themselves. It also aims to give local fashion followers the chance to have ‘high fashion at their doorstep.’”

Besides Abdul Karim, the three-day event is expected to be attended by the Chief Minister of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and wife of the Governor of Sarawak Toh Puan Ragad Waleed Alkurdi.

The press conference also saw a short runway show featuring 11 out of the 24 designers that will be participating during ALTA MODA SARAWAK.

MARK YOU CALENDARS: The inaugural ALTA MODA SARAWAK will be held at the old State Legislative Assembly Building, Kuching on Mar 7 to 9.

Style Series teams up with Miss World Malaysia 2018 for a good cause

Style Series is a series of events organised to share fashion concepts and empower emerging new talents in Southeast Asia and Europe.

The first of its event, Style Series Episode 1: China Rouge was held on Jan 27 at Chabo Dine and Bar.

And this time, the fashion event showcased a spectacular Chinese New Year Collection to raise funds for Miss World Malaysia’s Indigenous Digital Outreach Program (IDOP).

The Miss World Malaysia 2019 titleholder, Larissa Ping Liew explained that she collaborated with Kuching-based community building organisation to start IDOP.

She said, “One of the main reasons why I joined Miss World was because Miss World focuses so much on reaching out to people, especially underprivileged children around the world. Hence, I’ve collaborated with the Champions to run programs around the rural areas of Sarawak called the IDOP.”

IDOP’s first project was held in October 2018 where Liew and her team reached out to the Penan community nearby Long Seridan. There, they brought in computers, painted murals around the school, fixed their fans and lights as well as organised motivational sessions for the students.

“Why children in the rural areas?” Liew said, “We realised that there is a major education gap between the rural community and urban folk.”

According to the 20-year-old beauty queen, not many rural youth enjoy good quality education or have the opportunity to further their tertiary studies and change their status quo.

She continued, “Being there to experience the lifestyle of the children has motivated my team and I to do more this year.”

With funds raised from Style Series Episode 1, Liew and her team are hoping to reach out to ten different villages this year around Sarawak.

About Style Series

Style Series was founded by Geraldine Sim, Wong Kai Lee and Roselyn Ling.

The main aim of Style Series events is to connect designers through fashion, while fostering a community of collaboration and inspiration.

For its debut, the events featured collection from Yacutha Borneo, Romyda KL, TeeCode, Wynka, Rozie Khan, Mastuli Khalid, Emil Hamlyn and Melor.

There were 40 looks featured on the runaway with celebrity model Amber Chia took the closing spot for the fashion show.

Paul Carling on being a young fashion designer in Sarawak

Paul Carling on being a young fashion designer in Sarawak

Paul Carling Rahit, the brain behind the Paul Carling label is a young Kuching-based fashion designer.

He curated the national costume for Malaysian representative Debra Jeanne Poh for the 6th Miss Grand International Pageant in Myanmar last October.

Inspired by the Rhinoceros hornbill, Sarawak’s emblem and a powerful symbol for its headhunter warriors, the 28-year-old designer called it ‘Tebengang the Great’.

Traditional embroidery methods were used to create its patterns from cowries’ shells, along with traditional beadwork adorned with brass bells.

After the photo of ‘Tebengang the Great’ was released online, some Indonesian fans were quick to claim the design was from Indonesian Kalimantan.

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KajoMag sat with Paul Carling to know his thoughts on the issue and what it’s like being a young fashion designer in Sarawak.

KajoMag: Why did you choose fashion design as a career?

Paul Carling: I was an IT student before. After some time, I realised IT was not my thing anymore. I tried to change my major few times but couldn’t. Once I managed to change my course to Design Technology majoring in Fashion, I decided to do my best.

I like making clothes and I used to make dance costumes when I was still in Unimas (University Malaysia Sarawak). From there, slowly and finally it became something I was very passionate about.

KajoMag: What is your favourite part about being a fashion designer?

Paul Carling: When I see a client feeling satisfied with the dress that I made, that is my favourite part of my job. I see my design as an art and art is freeing. When I design, the idea comes spontaneously.

Paul Carling on being a young fashion designer in Sarawak

KajoMag: What do you want women to feel when wearing your label?

Paul Carling: I want them to feel confident in them. Some of my clients come to me to customise their dresses because they could not find anything for them off-the-rack. For example, a full-figured lady usually finds it hard to look for a wedding dress in local bridal shops. Even if they could find one that fits them, it is usually an ugly-looking dress. So when they came in for a custom-made dress, it is a piece which is solely tailored for them. I love looking at their happy reactions when they wear these dresses.

KajoMag: Your national costume for Miss Grand Malaysia to the Miss Grand International pageant gathered a lot of backlash online from some Indonesian fans. What are your comments on that?

Paul Carling: As a fan of pageantry, this kind of issue is boring for me. It has been happening every year, maybe it’s a way for them to make themselves feel good or to highlight their own beauty queen. I noticed it is like some sort of trend to cyberbully other participants. As for their comments on the costume being from Dayak Kalimantan; we are from the same island and we do have the same culture. Those who said that are clearly not from Borneo. Nonetheless, the best part was that there were even commenters from Kalimantan defending the design.

KajoMag: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?

Paul Carling: I hope I can finish paying off my debt (laughing). First of all I want to be free of my study loan. I don’t feel like I need fame. For me, I don’t think you can be happy if you are famous but without money. The same thing goes for artistes like singers; although they are famous but if they do not have gigs, they cannot put food on the table.

I think the same thing can be applied to us fashion designers. You need to know how to maintain your business and have a good relationship with your customers. Your returning customers are always the best because they will introduce you to other clients and come back for more orders.

KajoMag: From a young designer perspective who is based in Sarawak, what do you think the local industry needs right now?

Paul Carling: We should celebrate more of our young designers. We do have famous Sarawakian fashion designers but they will not be here forever. My fellow young designers would agree that we are lacking in ways to promote our collection and we are always being compared to the famous ones like Von Jolly Couture and Datuk Tom Abang Saufi. But they are already at the top of their games. For us, the young designers, we need support and more opportunities. It is not like we are asking for funds or money; just more platforms to showcase our designs.

For myself, I’m grateful that I made the smart move to get involved with pageantry. That was how I got my name out there. However, to make a name for myself in the fashion industry – no, I’m not there yet. Without platforms to showcase our designs, most young designers in Sarawak would end up staying in their workshops at home working as just a tailor.

Paul Carling on being a young fashion designer in Sarawak
A model wearing Paul Carling design during Sarawak Fashion Awards 2017.

For more information on Paul Carling and his designs, check out his Facebook page here and Instagram. 

3 reasons why you should buy secondhand clothes

Not everyone is a fan of secondhand clothes. Here in Malaysia, there are plenty of bad impressions about them, even with the cuddly label of ‘pre-loved’.

“They are dead people’s clothes.”

“You will never find something fashionable.”

“They are all outdated.”

Secondhand clothes are usually called ‘baju bundle’ or bundle clothes because they are sold in bundles or bulk.

3 reasons why you should buy secondhand clothes
Secondhand clothes are usually called as baju bundle in Malaysia. Credits: Pexels.      

Lay your bad impressions of baju bundle aside and consider these three reasons why you should buy secondhand clothes:

1. It saves money

Buying pre-loved clothes is undeniably way cheaper than the original price. If you are the fashionable type who likes to curate your outfit of the day daily, with secondhand clothes you can do that without burning burning holes in your pocket.

There are few instances in life that perhaps will make you change your whole wardrobe – losing a lot of weight in a short amount of time is one of them.

Recreating a whole new look and buying a new range of outfits for your wardrobe is affordable with secondhand clothes.

Additionally, it frees up money for other things like vacations or emergency funds.

3 reasons why you should buy secondhand clothes
You will never know what you find when shop for secondhand clothes. Credits: Pexels.

2.You are helping the environment

Do you know that it takes 700 gallons of water to make a cotton shirt? Do you know that clothes can take up to 40 years to decompose?

There are people out there who throw out clothes after wearing them only a few times. Imagine if everybody was doing the same thing; the amount of clothes piling up in our landfills would be unbelievable.

It is best for all and Mother Nature if everybody would wear their clothes till they are completely worn out. Then it could take decades before our clothes reach the landfill.

Hence, wearing secondhand clothes allows you to do your part for the environment.

3 reasons why you should buy secondhand clothes
You are reducing waste when you buy pre-loved clothes. Credits: Pexels.

3.The closest you can get to a treasure hunt

You will never know what you will get when you are looking for pre-loved clothes.

Based on my personal experience, I’ve found items from GAP, Banana Republic, Armani Exchange, Forever 21 at one of the thrift shops in Kuching.

The best thing about buying these branded secondhand clothes? They only cost as low as one tenth of the original price.

3 reasons why you should buy secondhand clothes
AB Bundle Matang, one of the chain thrift shops in Sarawak.

How to master secondhand shopping for your wardrobe

Secondhand shopping is a skill that needs to be learned. It requires practice and perseverance so that you won’t leave a thrift or vintage store with regrets.

Furthermore, mastering secondhand shopping also allows you to grab that one perfect piece of clothing before everybody else.

Here are Kajo-tested and approved techniques on how to master secondhand shopping for your wardrobe:

How to master secondhand shopping for your wardrobe
Never miss a rack when secondhand shopping.

  1. Don’t miss a rack

There are plenty to see when you go for secondhand shopping but no matter what happens, never lose your focus.
Go through every rack and check every hanger because you never know what you’ll find.
Also, wear something comfortable and be patient when you go out shopping.

2. Never buy anything with a stain on it.

It doesn’t matter how good it looks or how well it fits you, do not buy anything with a stain on it. No matter how big or small the stain is, it is better to play safe and don’t purchase a stained piece of secondhand clothing.

Never assume you can get rid of the stain later.

3. Check every zip and button

How to master secondhand shopping for your wardrobe
If the clothes need major repairs, skip them.

Secondhand shopping is like working on quality control section of a factory: You have to check every part of the clothes especially the buttons, seams and zips.

If it only needs minor repair such as sewing in a missing button, then it is worth to buy.

If the clothes need major repairs like a broken zip, however, it is better to drop it.

4. Black is always the safest colour

How to master secondhand shopping for your wardrobe
Black clothes are always a good idea.

When secondhand shopping for your wardrobe, it is best to pick fashion neutrals. These are colours that go with anything.

Basic neutral colours are black, gray, navy, brown, khaki and white. The best out of these fashion neutrals is of course black, while the riskiest choice is white.

Try to avoid printed fabrics unless they look timeless. Most prints come and go so you can easily which era some specific prints come from.

5.Go for the classic, timeless style

Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn when secondhand shopping for clothes. Aim for classic and timeless designs which will make you effortlessly chic.

Say no to big puffy sleeves that definitely scream 80s fashion unless you are shopping for a Halloween costume.
Hepburn was known for her form-fitting long sleeve shirt, striped shirt, smart black trousers, button up shirt and A-line skirt or dress.

When in doubt, go for Hepburn-inspired little black dress from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. You can never ever go wrong with an LBD.

Style guide for women: 5 easy tips on how to dress better instantly

We’ve heard the phrases “dress for success” or “dress for the job that you want, not the job you have.”

Dressing up will boost your self-confidence, promote self-respect and give a good impression.

As Coco Chanel’s famous quote goes, “Dress shabbily and they remember the dress. Dress impeccably and they remember the woman.”

Now comes the question on how to be effortlessly more stylish with little effort.

Here are KajoMag’s five easy tips on how to dress better instantly without changing your whole wardrobe:

1. Don’t know what to wear? Pick a one-piece outfit.

Style guide for women: 5 easy tips on how to dress better instantly
Pick a dress or a jumpsuit if you are too lazy to mix and match your outfit. Credits: Pexels.

Ever have one of those days when you just don’t know what to wear? Most professionals advise that we should plan our outfits the night before so that you don’t have to make that decision in the morning. But if you are really stuck and tired of playing the mix and match game, pick a one-piece like a dress or a jumpsuit.

2. Highlight one feature on your face

Style guide for women: 5 easy tips on how to dress better instantly
Rock a red lipstick and you definitely look effortlessly stylish. Credits: Pexels.

You don’t need to have professional skills or a suitcase of cosmetics to know how to apply makeup.

First of all you need to pick your favourite facial feature, then start to work some magic on your face.

Put on a bold red lipstick with super light eye makeup or wear a pair of fake lashes while rocking nude lips. Either way, highlight only one feature on your face so that way you won’t spend tonnes of time on makeup and still look polished.

3. Fix your hair

Style guide for women: 5 easy tips on how to dress better instantly
Give your a quick blow dry before going out from the house. Credits: Pexels.

For women, our hair is the crown that we never take off. So no matter how lazy you are in the morning, the least you can do is to simply comb your hair.

There is no need to go full blown salon style on your hair. As long as you tame that frizzy mane, you are good to go.

4. Choose one statement accessory

Style guide for women: 5 easy tips on how to dress better instantly
Pick only one statement accessories and your outfits would immediately looked more stylish. Credits: Pexels.

Even if you outfit is plain and uninteresting, dress better instantly by pairing it with a statement accessory.
Choose a pair of statement earrings or necklace depending on your outfit. Accessories do make you look like you dressed to impress.

5. Wear a pair of covered shoes

Style guide for women: 5 easy tips on how to dress better instantly
A pair of close-toed shoes is always a good choice. Credits: Pexels.

Have you heard the saying, “I make shoe contact before eye contact?” Your shoes can be the first thing people notice when they see you.

However, if it is hard to make a choice of which pair of footwear to go with, go for covered shoes. Covered heels will always make you look more professional than a pair of open toed shoes. A pair of white sneakers, for example, definitely looks better with your jeans than flip-flops.

If you don’t believe a pair of shoes can make a difference, just remember Cinderella.