7 Ways to Fake Looking Pulled Together When You Feel Anything But

Sometimes you just can’t do it. You know what we’re talking about—the idea of mustering up a thoughtful and creative outfit after a long night where sleep was, well, nonexistent. Sure, you could always succumb to a sweats situation, but if you have an occasion that calls for something semi-presentable, the joggers-and-pullover ensemble might not work.

Don’t worry, though: Spending the minuscule amount of brain power you have trying to whip up a solid outfit actually isn’t necessary. If you backlog a few easy styling tricks, you'll fake looking put together even if you don't feel like it. Ahead, we’re highlighting seven genius ways to look stylish—even when you’re having one of those days.

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1. When in Doubt, Add a Blazer
(Image credit: Szymon Brzóska)

There are certain pieces that can just make an outfit. A blazer fits that bill. You can seriously toss one over just about everything—even an easy dress—and you’ll look instantly put together and sophisticated.

Shop sleek blazers:

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2. Embrace Easy Layering
(Image credit: Szymon Brzóska)

It doesn’t actually take much to make an ensemble feel high-concept. You just need to start with easy layering. This outfit formula is essentially just a top and pants (simple to put together even if you have no energy), but the addition of the sheer turtleneck brings the vibe to the next level.

Shop turtlenecks for layering:

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3. Don’t Be Afraid of a Jumpsuit
(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you’re really not in the mood to even think about dreaming up an outfit, keep a jumpsuit on hand. The silhouette is forward by nature and requires nothing more than slipping into just one piece. To add extra dimension, incorporate a few unique accessories like a colorful belt. 

Shop stylish jumpsuits:

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4. Go for Statement Outerwear
(Image credit: Szymon Brzóska)

We think of bold outerwear as a fashion armor of sorts. You can literally wear whatever underneath (even your most basic jeans and tee getup), and simply toss on a statement-making topper for an easy yet impactful look.

Shop bold outerwear:

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5. A Throw-On Dress Always Works
(Image credit: Szymon Brzóska)

Similar to a jumpsuit, a statement dress (with interesting accents and details) is another easy yet effective piece to have on hand for when you want something polished that you can just toss on and go.

Shop unique dresses:

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6. Two Stylish Pieces Can Go a Long Way
(Image credit: Szymon Brzóska)

Don’t underestimate the power of a two-piece look. If you have an eye-catching sweater in your arsenal, all you really need is a coordinating skirt and you have yourself a simple yet pulled-together ensemble. 

Shop a sweater and skirt combo:

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7. Opt for a Monochromatic Look
(Image credit: Szymon Brzóska)

Fashion-forward by nature, a monochromatic ’fit is as easy as it gets. Grab two pieces that are in the same color family (similar to the above!) and you’ll look like a true style setter. 

Shop a monochromatic set:

Next, check out stylish sweater and skinny jean outfit ideas.

Bobby Schuessler
Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retialers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.