15-Second Styling Tricks Direct From a Celebrity Stylist

From creating Rihanna's, Kim Kardashian West's and Lorde's most iconic outfits to cementing London's best dressed It-girl scene, super stylist and creative director Avigail Collins is known for creating celebrities' exciting new looks. But Avigail's wardrobing skills extend even further: See her own streetwear-inspired line, Silver Spoon Attire, which was founded in 2013 alongside her husband (and fellow sought-after stylist) Damian Collins. The stylist's high-profile music clients and global street style following make up a pretty impressive fan club. If anyone can spot the next big thing, it's Avigail, which is why we're thrilled to have her at Who What Wear UK to bring you a monthly column about what's hot now.

I'm not sure how you feel at the end of July, but I'm kind of bored with my summer outfits already. I've set about generating some super-fast styling hacks that will give your existing hot-weather pieces a major jolt of newness. They're all super cost-effective too, so if you've spent all of your money on holiday pieces and the beach is now long gone, these handy little updates will be of use to you. Keep reading to see my fast styling hacks you can copy today.

1. Bandanna to Mini Bag

Styling tricks: tying a bandana into a bag

Photo:

Avigail Collins

I found out about this handy trick when I was on holiday one year and was in desperate need of a red bag. It is always a struggle for me when I pack and have to decide how many bags I should take, as they do take up quite a lot of luggage space. However, the change of a bag can really make an outfit. The bandanna bag also works as a lining inside this season's woven shopping bags (aka your makeup won't fall out the holes).

Want to try it for yourself? Start by laying your bandanna out on the floor and putting something in the middle so it has weight to keep its hold. Bring the corners together (corner to corner) and tie a double knot tight enough to hold in place but not too tight that you won't be able to get it out. After you've done one side, do the other side. Et voilá! Your very own bandanna swag bag is complete.

Styling tricks: tying a bandanna into a bag

Photo:

Avigail Collins

So if you're a handbag addict like me, then try this trick that gives you two bag options that are perfect for holidays (it also won't take up any room in your suitcase). Also, a bandanna looks fab in your hair or even as a top if you're into the '90s vibe.

2. Slip Dress Into a Skirt

Styling tricks: turning a slip dress into a skirt

Photo:

Avigail Collins

I found this trick out whilst on holiday. I was desperate to switch up my look from casual to chic, and this trick did just that. It is super easy, but it only works with dresses with straps, as you need them to make the skirt.

Want to turn your dress into a slip skirt? Start by dropping your dress down to your waist. Take both straps and tie them in a knot around your waist. Where you have tied the knot, move the dress around to the side a little (this ensures that the knots fall at your hip rather than sticking out at the front). Finally, add a tee for the best casual combination that works in the city or on holiday.

I think this trick works really well with a button-front dress, as you can undo some buttons and show some leg. However, it also would work with a loose-fitting slip dress.

Styling tricks:  adding ribbon bows to bra straps

Photo:

Avigail Collins

Having big boobs and loving off-the-shoulder tops doesn't need to be stressful. We all know how crap strapless bras can be (it's one thing having to deal with them on a night out, but when you're running errands all day, pulling your bra up every five minutes is the last thing you need).

So this summer, I decided to crack the problem and have been using ribbons (in any colour I can find, really) to disguise my bra straps, as it makes them look like they're a part of your top.

Styling tricks: adding ribbon bows to bra straps

Photo:

Avigail Collins

Personally, I love wearing a black bra with a white top, but I know this isn't for everyone. If you are more into neutral colours, then try tonal ribbons to match your bras and tops. I promise you won't regret this truly great hack.

An additional tip: If you see a floral bra with matching floral bra straps or any patterned bra straps, they will also work well with off-the-shoulder tops.