Everybody wants to look stylish, but most people think that this can only be possible with trendy or expensive clothes. But, you can look chic without going bankrupt.

According to fashionistas, the trick is to learn how to style better what you already have. Anyone can have a sense of fashion if you take the time to think creatively, beyond what you see in your wardrobe. You might think your clothes are boring, but you’ll be surprised if you take time to think creatively.

Deodactus Amini, a fashion designer, says there are two kinds of people when it comes to fashion.

"There are people who love fashion and there are others that do fashion, someone who does fashion knows the criteria, from being creative to learning from everything. And the ones who love fashion buy everything because it is fashionable, but the perspectives from these two people are very different.”

"When you love fashion, your mind trains itself to be creative, that is when you find yourself giving value to the old clothes you have or accessories, you don’t throw them away because you know you will create something different from what it was before, something chic. You will even see that an old trouser can turn into a new stylish short for summer,” he says.

Matutina Tumushabe, fashion enthusiast, says, "To spice your wardrobe up you can try reusing old clothes, the way you want them to be styled, you can learn on YouTube or follow your own imagination, and also try to add beautiful accessories like matching earrings or a necklace, it will help you a lot.

"I always try to match colours but also not too much, my favourite colour is black and I have been told that it goes well with my light skin tone. When I am dressing up to go somewhere, I try to match colours, let’s say if I choose a black top, I wear light jeans and black shoes, any type. I think when you overthink an outfit you ruin it,” says Deborah Iliza.

Brian Imanzi, a fashion lover, is of the view that to look good, one should consider the occasion. "If you are going to work you can’t obviously wear clothes that are meant for a night out. Dressing appropriately is what makes you look elegant and chic,” he says. 

An article published by 40+Style guides on how to look effortlessly chic:

Embrace the classics

Classics don’t have to be boring. Invest in timeless pieces like a good jacket, a pair of boots, or some tailored blouses. Classics mix and match easily and can be dressed up or down.

Effortlessly chic women are masters at layering

The next time you put pants and a shirt on, think about how you can layer the look. A good rule of thumb is to start with three layers: Your basic outfit plus, jewellery, a scarf, belt, statement shoe, or handbag. As you get more confident, don’t stop at three layers. Add a cardigan, hat, or belt.

Don’t be "match-y”

Although a business suit is an essential wardrobe staple, mix it up sometimes. The same goes with jewellery or the old-fashioned rule of matching your handbag with your shoes. To look effortless means you didn’t overthink your outfit. Break sets up creatively.

Go easy on hair styling and make-up

One of the best ways to soften your style and look effortlessly chic is through your beauty choices. If you’re wearing an up-do, leave a few tendrils to hang. Or avoid too much hair product or make-up, especially during the day.

"Even trendy or branded clothes or shoes can also look effortlessly elegant, just don’t overthink the outfit and always focus on what works for you, what outfit or shoes you like, and try not to copy because it will hinder your own ability to create,” Nadia Umwali, an aspiring fashion designer, advises.