The $0 Item That Solves Every Styling Dilemma

When she’s not working with big names like Lupita Nyong’o, Jennifer Hudson, and Hilary Swank, celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger also divulges her fashion expertise in our Ask a Stylist column. Erlanger is also the official ARMI Captain at the luxury rental and styling platform Armarium. From the best places to source vintage to the secret to finding your most flattering jeans, come back each week for a professional’s perspective.
From hems that fall apart to a new dress that doesn’t fit quite right, as a girl who is constantly on the go, these styling dilemmas can have the potential to cause a lot of anxiety and usually occur when you’re at your busiest. Throughout my years as a stylist, I’ve experienced many of these dilemmas with either myself or my clients, and I’ve decided to share my $0 secret to fixing every styling dilemma.
With my experience, I’ve decided to share a simple item that I always use when it comes to any styling dilemma. Being a stylist, it is always my responsibility to help resolve these dilemmas before they can ruin a red carpet appearance or any other event. This sounds like a no-brainer, but the item that I always use to fix every styling dilemma is a hotel sewing kit. This $0 tool is perfect to fix any styling mishaps you may have, avoiding the last-minute outfit change. I have used these kits countless times in many different situations—they’re an essential every fashion girl should have to tackle any obstacles that come with creating perfect looks. So the next time you’re traveling, snag the complimentary sewing kit from your hotel.
Shop my go-to wardrobe staples below.

A self proclaimed “vintage-a-holic, and glamour girl” Micaela’s clients include: Lupita Nyong’o, Michelle Dockery, Meryl Streep, Jared Leto, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Hilary Swank, Tatiana Maslany and John Boyega.The hallmark of Micaela’s work is her meticulous attention to detail and a keen focus on the client’s needs and objectives. With a love for all things beautiful and alluring, coupled with an appreciation of the whimsical, Micaela brings a versatile and fresh approach to styling.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel Stale
Foolproof solutions.
-
The Best Elevated Basics to Shop If You Love The Row, According to a Stylist
So chic.
-
I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a T
It's time to break the rules.
-
10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This Summer
Number four is already trending.
-
Brand Layering: The Art of Knowing Which Labels to Pair With Each Other
The ultimate styling hack.
-
The Simple Styling Trick That Turns Pencil Skirts From Corporate to Chic in 5 Seconds or Less
It's completely free and ready to copy.
-
The Curvy Girl's Guide to Finding Pants That Fit Flawlessly
Waist gap, begone.
-
Jamie Mizrahi's World: The Celeb Stylist's Favorite Red Carpet Look, Most Worth-It Shoe, and Album She Listens to on Repeat
A modern-day style expert.