When we were all younger, we loved hearing that we looked older than our actual age. Oh, how the tables have turned! There are so many different fashion mistakes that you need to avoid if you want to seem young and fresh as opposed to older. Depending on your outfit, you can make yourself look younger or older! It’s true that fashion isn’t always easy to get right. There are some things that are in style one moment and the next are faux pas. Trends constantly evolve and change. So, let us help you figure out what you should avoid!
Poofy, Big Hairdo
Back in the ’70s and ’80s, it seemed like everyone wanted big hair. It was all the rage to back-comb the hair or tease it. These days, however, it’s common knowledge that doing so will seriously damage your hair. Not to mention, this style is so outdated. Soft and silky locks are the way to go.
Matchy-Matchy Outfits
Mixing and matching prints and patterns is very much in style. Color coordinating? Not so much. It can become boring to wear matching outfits. On top of that, it can make you look older than you really are. Avoid looking too put-together if you want to have a younger look. You can mix leopard and plaid or stripes and circles for example.
High-Waters
If you’re wearing high-waters to show off your amazing socks, go for it. Otherwise, avoid this style of pants, no matter what. When you’re out shopping for pants, sit down, and make sure your ankle remains covered. After all, having cold ankles is very unpleasant.
Over-Plucking/Tweezing
People used to love having their eyebrows plucked very thin. However, these days, people prefer thicker and more natural eyebrows. Don’t worry about stray hairs! The bushier they are, the better they will be.
No Skincare Routine
Are you in your twenties now? If you are, know that it’s a great time to start using eye and night cream. Despite the fact that you’re still young, you can prevent skin aging by using the right products for that. Include this step in your morning and night routines.
Long Sleeves Only
Unfortunately, arm flab seems to be the reality for lots of aging people. Honestly, no one actually pays much attention to them. If you choose to cover them in the summer, however, people will definitely notice. Own it and wear shorter sleeves!
Matching Lipstick And Dress
If you’re wearing a black sweater, finish the look with some pink lipstick. However, you shouldn’t get a pomegranate lipstick and wear it with the same-colored blouse! We found you will find the perfect match in any case. The difference between the shades will look strange.
“Old Lady” Handbags
Big bags, otherwise known as “old lady” bags, are no longer a fashionable thing. Nowadays, smaller and more elegant bags are all the rage. In any case, how much stuff do you actually need to bring along that will be put in your handbag?
Undergarment Lines
The right clothing will only look good if you’re wearing the correct undergarments below them. While the outfit might look great on its own, it might turn out to be useless if your bra is peeking through the shirt or if your underwear is too tight. Get seamless undergarments to avoid any embarrassing moments.
Jersey Fabric
Despite the fact that jersey is a comfortable material, this fabric can be rather unflattering by accenting the wrong areas. After all, it tends to cling to the body. Wool, cotton, silk, and the like are better alternatives that will do well with hiding problematic areas. If you need jersey, opt for sheets or get looser pieces of clothing.
Tan Stockings/Pantyhose
Nude-colored tights and black tights are just fine, but tan is definitely not a good look. Wearing “four shades darker than your skin tone” is no longer popular. As a rule of thumb, get tights that match your skin tone.
Overdoing It With Powder
Avoid using powder makeup. The reason for this is that it causes your skin to dry out. Not to mention, it’ll make your makeup stick to every single pore, highlighting imperfections. Creams and liquids are much better alternatives for a smoother look.
Hiding Your Figure
Older people tend to wear more loose-fitting clothing. Don’t fall for that though – avoid baggy clothes and instead opt for form-fitting ones. They will accentuate your body shape instead. After all, wearing clothing that is shaped like garbage bags will make you look older.
Keeping The Same Hairdo
While it’s nice to find a hairstyle that works for you, it can get really boring after a while. Occasionally, try and switch up the color or length of your hair, if not both. With the right hairstyle, you’ll look like a brand-new person.
Minis
As you grow older, it’s a good idea to avoid any clothing that is “mini”. For older women, the rule of thumb is that nothing should be shorter than just above the knee. While your legs might look amazing, this would be unflattering.
Pieces With A Story
That dress you’ve been holding on to might have sentimental value to you, but it definitely doesn’t mean you have to ever wear it. If it’s big and baggy, you can get it hemmed or even turned into a scarf. You don’t have to walk around wearing a hideous dress just because you had it on your kid’s first birthday.
Dark Lipstick
Dark lipstick tends to draw attention to each and every line on your lips. Go for lighter shades if you want to show off your killer pout without highlighting imperfections around it. If you can’t live without dark or red, make sure to exfoliate first to make sure the surface is smooth.
Not Showing Your Neck
Lots of people assume that turtlenecks are a great way to hide wrinkles. Well, we have some bad news. This is not the case. Not to mention, these tops can be uncomfortable, so let’s forget about them. Wear a v-neck or scoop top instead for a more flattering look. If you want something more modest, a collared shirt is always a good idea.
All Black Everything
It’s well-known that wearing black clothing will make you look slimmer. However! This color also tends to wash out your complexion at the same time. As we get older, our skin gets lighter, meaning you’ll look more and more washed out with time. If you want to wear a black jacket, put on something more colorful underneath it.
Tweed
Tweed is magical in the sense that it can age even the youngest-looking person by 10 years in a matter of minutes. It’s good for kids – but that’s it. If you like menswear and how it looks, wear pinstripes and houndstooth instead of tweed for a similar effect – only younger.
Resisting Denim
Denim is one of those fabrics that can make a person look younger. Do you want to hide any problem areas? If you do, wear dark-wash denim. This versatile material can be dressed up in darker colors too. Up your fashion game by wearing a blazer or a pair of heels.
Chunky Jewelry
Yes, this was all the rage at one point – but that was a decade ago. Wearing chunky jewelry now will simply make you look older. Instead, wear small and delicate pieces. Not only are they more chic, but they’re also more versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of outfits.
Stretchy Jeans
We know stretchy jeans are super comfortable, but they can make you look rather lumpy if you don’t happen to have a supermodel figure (which most of us don’t). If you want to flatten your silhouette and accentuate your natural curves, get jeans with 2% elastic fiber instead.
Nothing Tight
Tight clothes can take years off your age. Well, it only makes sense that baggy clothes do the exact opposite. Older people seem to be convinced that they wouldn’t look good in form-fitting clothes, but they’re wrong! Wearing clothes true to your size will be the most flattering.
Chunky Sneakers
These days, sneakers, booties, and chunky heels have become all the rage. However, they can make you look older and heavier. Sleeker shoes like kitten heels and flats with ankle straps will be much more flattering.
Too Trendy
Of course, trendy clothing is great, but there is such a thing as taking it too far. When something goes out of style, let it go. You won’t look young and chic by wearing something no one is interested in anymore. Timeless trends like leather and plaid are always a good call – they never go out of style!
Jacket Around The Waist
While it might have been cool to tie your jacket around your waist 20 years ago, now that isn’t the case. This trend is convenient if you don’t feel like carrying your jacket, but it will make your waist and hips look bigger than they really are. Next time, just drape it around your shoulders.
Tanning
It’s a known fact that tanning outside can seriously damage your skin. While you’ll have a healthy glow for a bit, it won’t look that way 25 years later. You’ll get wrinkles and sunspots. Try replacing tanning outside with tanning creams and products to get the same result without the skin damage.
Flowery Prints
Florals do a good job of accentuating your outfit every so often, but only use them as statement pieces. Wearing too much of this pattern will age you – a lot. If you go with a floral dress, make sure it’s fitted.
Split Ends
Having too-long hair can age you even if you’re only 30 years old. Want to keep a youthful appearance? Get your hair cut on a regular basis. This will give you a fuller style and keep split ends away. As you get older, hair things out, so this is crucial.
Too Much Blush
Blush can make or break a makeup look. If you apply it to the wrong spot or put on too much, it can seriously age you and make you look older. Blush should be subtle and create a natural flush. If you accidentally apply too much, grab a beauty blender or tissue and blend it out gently.
Only Wearing Flats
We know heels aren’t the most comfortable shoes to wear, but flats tend to make a person look more like a ‘granny’. By wearing heels, you’ll look younger. Thankfully, new styles are on the comfortable side. Boots and booties with thick heels, as well as kitten heels, have made comebacks.
Logos For All To See
Wearing clothes with giant logos on them can give the impression that you’re trying too hard. It didn’t look good when you were 18, and it won’t look good when you’re 50. Honestly, it comes off as attention-seeking. Wear pieces by the brand if you like their style, not because the brand name is plastered across the front.
Long Skirts
Oftentimes, hemlines tend to get longer the older we get. However, you can do this in a graceful way to keep it from backfiring and looking frumpy. If you happen to be tall, you won’t have such a problem. You can also wear boots or high heels to make the look work. The key is good proportions.
Slouchy And Slouchy
This is one rule you should always follow: if you’re wearing tight bottoms, the top should be loose. And vice versa. This is a good guideline to follow if you want to avoid looking neglected or sloppy with too-baggy clothes.
Not Showing Your Waist
Loose clothing doesn’t always cover up all the bulges you want them too. They can even make us look bigger at times. If you want to look like a huge garbage bag, by all means, go for it – we’re not judging. However, if you want to add shape to an outfit, use a belt. Cinching in the waist will define your figure.
Heavy Black Eye Makeup
Don’t pile on thick black eyeliner if you want to make your eyes stand out. The only thing this will do is bring attention to all your wrinkles. Choose a lighter color and use that as a liner instead. The best colors to choose are colors like gray, brown, and olive green.
Clothes That Aren’t Tailored
No matter what style they are. unaltered clothes won’t look amazing on anyone. Despite the fact that alterations aren’t cheap, it would cost you less than $35 to get a jacket taken in or a shirt darted. Just drop by a local tailor for a better quote.
Drugstore Reading Glasses
As you age, your eyesight tends to get worse too. Still, you don’t have to settle for those ugly reading glasses you see at drugstores. Get bigger and bolder frames if you want to highlight your face. This will work better than buying cheap, skinny frames.
Bras That Don’t Fit
Bras need to fit you correctly. Wearing the right bra for you will completely transform your figure! It’s not impossible to look for a bra brand that offers everything you need – support, comfort, and style. For women, saggy breasts are the number one sign of aging.
Chunky Heels
Chunky heels are only good for black-tie events, really. If you wear them at any other time, you’ll look outdated. We recommend you opt for a pointed heel over a chunky one. This will make you lighter and more elegant.
Silk Scarves
Have you started getting wrinkles and lines on your neck? Just know that wearing a silk neck scarf will do nothing but draw even more attention to them. On top of that, these scarves will make you look top-heavy.
Pearls
Wearing pearls can instantly add years to your appearance. Even if you’re heading to a charity ball, leave the pearls at home. Instead, go for silver accessories. Not only are they cheaper, but they’re also more timeless.
Boot-Cut Jeans
Boot-legged jeans will make you look short and squat, and let’s be honest, no one wants to look like that. Choose some slim-fitting jeans to make you look more slender and draw attention away from your bottom half.
Solar Shield Sunglasses
If you really want everyone to know that you’re old, put on a pair of Solar Shields. They are, to put it lights, huge and ugly. While they do block out the sun effectively, no one should be wearing them unless they have to.
Transition Glasses
Even young people look old with transition sunglasses. Who wants to wear sunglasses inside, anyways? Even though they can be convenient, you won’t be able to convince us to put them on anytime soon.
Jean Sets
Once upon a time, jean sets were all the rage. Now? Not so much. Wearing a matching set of a jean jacket and pants will do nothing but age you. You can pick one or the other – don’t wear both at once!
A Huge Wallet
A huge wallet says nothing but “I’m old”. There really is no need to keep a pen, pictures of your grandkids, and 20 credit cards all in one place. Just carry the cards you’ll need along with some cash. Nothing more and nothing less.
Jewelry Sets
We are so not quite sure people still think that this is a “cool trend”…take it from us jewelry sets are so outdated. In fact, there is actually an unwritten fashion rule that all the jewelry you wear at once should not match at all! This is a huge fashion no-no and instantly makes you look so much older than you actaully are.
Jeans & Running Sneakers
This may have been a thing back in the early 1990s, but people we are now in 2021! This means that whatever this look was is no longer a thing anymore. Jeans and running shoes just don’t look good together, no matter how hard you try to make a fashion statement. We highly recommend that you stay clear of this look, it will definitely add many unnecessary years to your life.
High Socks & Shorts
This is definitely a fashion mistake that will make you look so much older than you actually are. No matter how cute you think this looks, girls and guys, do not do this! This makes you seem like you not only have zero style but that you are actually on your way to a 70s Halloween party. We suggest that you rather pick low socks, especially when you want to wear these types of shorts.
Short Haircut
Ok, we can kind of understand where this look is going. However, sadly this type of haircut is not the look you people should be going for. These short haircuts truly make you look so much older than you actually are. But, if you really wanting to rock a short hairstyle, make sure you go for something that is completely on-trend and that looks good. Something like a gorgeous bob.
Elastic Waist Pants
This is both for the ladies and the gents… nowadays the array of comfortable pants available is pretty much endless. But, whatever you do, please do not buy elastic pants that sit on your waist. Unless you’re looking to appear much older than your actual age, then by all means go ahead. Take the time to go shopping and search for yoga or leisure pants that are not only comfortable but very stylish.
Old Ties
Unless you’re trying to pull off the ultimate nerd look or going to a real formal event, you should not be wearing ties – at all! Professional stylists have recommended that the days of the wide, stripped 1980s ties are long gone. Instead, you should rather opt for a tie that is a lot more trendy and chic. There are tons of options of ties for men that will make you look so much more hip and youthful.
Eyeglass Chains
For many years, this trend was exclusive to your grandma and older aunts. So many people never quite understood what this style was all about, it seemed to be outdated and cheap. And not to mention, young people who tried to pull this off instantly looked quite old. If you are concerned about losing your glasses that either keep them on your face or in your bag.
Wrong Color Makeup
Unfortntalt this is still common nowadays. People just aren’t sure about what type of makeup to wear and what’s the best shade for their skin tone. In order to look your best with makeup on, you need to be wearing the correct foundation and bronzer. If you’re unsure about how exactly to match this properly, the makeup and cosmetic counters will definitely help you out. The last thing you want is to look too washed out or a person with a bad fake tan.
Glitter Overload
Ladies, we love the glitter. Whether it’s on clothes, our nails or to make our eyes pop. But we along with many style experts highly recommend that you leave the heavy amounts of glitter for the teenagers. Anyone older than that wearing glitter eyeshadow will probably look tacky and downright old-fashioned. We understand that it may be a gorgeous youthful look and you want to appear so much younger, but sadly it does the complete opposite. Additionally, the glitter can even make your wrinkles stand out so much more.
Blue Eyeshadow
From eyeliners to eyeshadows, different shades of blue is not always the best choice when it comes to eye makeup. Although there is some beautiful blue hues of makeup available, it is much better to go for tones that are either neutral or nude. No matter your skin tone or the look you are trying to pull, take it from the experts, blue is not the color you should be going for.
Overdrawn Lips
Unless you’re a famous celeb or a professional makeup artist, this look can easily make you look just like a clown. Especially when the outer lipliner begins to wear off. We understand that most people have the desire to look just like Kylie Jenner but take it from us, this is not always such a good idea. It’s actually tougher than it looks to get right. Moderation is essential, especially when it comes to makeup. So instead, rather concentrate on highlighting another part of your face.
Dangly Earrings
If you choose to wear long, dangling earrings be prepared for some features of your face to unwarily stand out. Back in the day, this look used to be largely fashionable. Many celebs also had the theory of “the bigger the better” with these types of earrings. However, times have changed and this look is no longer in style. Remember, when it comes to choosing accessories, it’s always best to go with something simpler and sleek. Heavy earrings are known to make women a lot older.
Locket Necklaces
If you’re over the age of 16, this next one is a real no-no. Although it can be a sentimental gift, this type of necklace is only suitable for younger girls. No matter how amazing the quality of the necklace, remembering your loved ones can be done in so many other ways. Wearing them around your neck is definitely not one of them. Save the picture on your cellphone or have it beautifully framed in your home.
Cargo Shorts
Gentlemen, this next one is for you! Cargo shorts are generally worn by middle-aged men, and when they do wear these fashion blunders they can easily make them look so sloppy. Especially with all the pockets and if they are overly baggy and long. Youg lads, in particular, should by no means be wearing these types of shorts. There are so many other fashionable shorts that now available for men, that will look great this summer
Belly Chains
Oh wow! We get it, belly chains were a huge thing in the past, but that time has long gone. Although many famous celebs and stars are trying to bring this “trend” back, we highly recommended that this should be avoided. Belly chains should not make a comeback at all! It seriously makes people look trashy and cheap as well. Did we forget to mention that they can also bring attention to the wrong parts of your body?
Crocheted Blanket
We totally understand if you feel the need to wear something that your grandma crocheted especially for you! However, this is the true definition of fashion from the 80s. And if you weren’t aware, we are now in the year 2021, meaning crocheted clothing of any sort should not be worn. Unless of course, you want to look much older and out-dated. These vintage clothes should not be allowed to make their way back to this era.
Pleather Chaps
This sight of this one, makes us cringe so much! Even though pleather chaps returned back in 2020, the clothing item should not be worn on a daily basis. Unless you’re a cowboy or going to a fancy dress party. You may be seeing a lot of these in-stores lately but do your best to stay away. If you want our opinion, they are so unstylish and completely shabby. Don’t you agree with us?
Cropped Pinstriped Pants
From the beginning of the early 2000s, loads of female celebs began wearing these types of pants. Which naturally pushed a large portion of the general public to want to dress just like their favorite stars. However, we are not exactly sure how this became such a huge fashion trend. Many years down the line and people are still wearing these pants with the assumption that they are gorgeously stylish. Well, guess what? They are not!
Embellished Jeans
Unless you’re under the age of 13, you should definitely not be wearing embellished jeans. Whether it’s embroidery, diamante, or printed patterns…ladies and gentlemen this is a huge fashion no-no! This may have been a huge fashion trend back in the day, but now in 2021 adults should not be wearing these kinds of jeans at all. Not even the iconic Beyonce’ should be not be seen in public with these.
Useless Belts
Another major fashion disaster we truly hope never to see again. At times during the early 2000s, the oversized yet useless belt looked may have looked quite cute but that was back in the day. We would so love to know why or how this was even a thing? Large belts on small frames like J.Lo would definitely draw unnecessary attention. So take it from the experts, ditch this look – immediately!
Cropped, Wide-leg Capris
Capris are a firm favorite of ours. They’re useful and cute at the same time. Wide capris, on the other hand, are strictly prohibited. Broad capri pants can cut off the leg line, making you appear shorter and stumpier. Full-length trousers with wide legs may be tempting, but wide capri pants can cut off the leg line, making you appear less aesthetically pleasing. In a nutshell (pun intended), stay away from capri pants that are overly broad. Capris may make a great fashion statement on their own. Wide-leg jeans, perhaps? That’s fantastic! If you don’t mix the two elements, you’ll be fine.
Tightly Pulled-Back Hair
Women with their hair pulled back into a tight bun or ponytail simply appear to be older. To us, a tight bun simply screams “headmistress.” To prevent making this mistake, don’t wear your hair completely back. Instead, let a few strands of hair fall about your face. It will make you look younger by softening your overall appearance.
Over-Accessorizing
There’s a fine line between wearing too many accessories and going overboard. We all know Iris Apfel is a fashion icon who lives by the maxim “more is more,” and we admire her. Not everyone, however, is capable of executing such a feat. The majority of us don’t look well with a lot of extras. In fact, it hastens our aging process dramatically. It’s a tight line to walk, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it.
Cheap Outerwear
Invest in outerwear if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on apparel in general. Some people may think that finding a new coat for $40 is a terrific deal, while others will see straight through it. Invest in a high-quality, comfortable, and fashionable coat to wear on a regular basis if you have the funds. This way, you won’t have to worry about it falling apart after just one season of use. Not to mention the fact that you’ll look amazing.
Ugly Holiday Patterns
Sweaters are a winter fashion staple, but when shopping for new ones, try to keep to neutral colors that are pleasing to the eye. Colors like black, white, gray, and blue come to mind. Avoid cheesy holiday patterns like snowflakes and reindeer. Wearing them all the time will make you appear older and strange. If you like patterns, stick to tried-and-true styles like stripes or plaid. For the rest of time, those will be classics.
Frameless Glasses
Many people prefer frameless glasses, and they aren’t necessarily the worst thing in the world. Nonetheless, everyone over the age of 50 should be weary when considering these. This is because our skin tones diminish with age, wearing these glasses will blend into our features, giving us an uncomfortable appearance that no one wants. We naturally appear duller as our hair and skin lose color over time. Instead of frameless glasses, opt for ones with a wider frame or a brighter color; this will brighten your face and make you look younger.
Pastel Overload
For senior people, pastel colors are not a good fit because they wash you out. As previously stated, as we age, our hair and complexion deteriorate, therefore wearing pale colors will only add to the effect. This does not, however, exclude you from wearing pastels. All you have to do now is choose wisely. Experiment with various hues and tints to see how they look on your skin and hair, and then develop from there.
Too Much At Once
If you choose to wear more modest clothing, go ahead and do so! If you think you look older than you are, it’s possible that you dressed too many conservative pieces in one outfit. Tweed with pearls, for example, will quickly age the wearer. Separate them and pair them with more youthful clothing to provide a youthful touch. If you still want to wear them together, give them a modern twist to make them appear more youthful.
A Lot Of Jewelry
Consider this: in every rom-com starring a woman over 50, she is typically adorned with oversized jewelry that jangles and rattles with every step she takes. We now believe that wearing a lot of dazzling jewelry at once can age you, which may contribute to the film’s comic qualities. Your personality and personal taste play a role in this as well.
Prints
When we’re young, we have unlimited access to clothing and fashion trends. Taking fashion risks is admired and encouraged. Fear makes you older since the young aren’t afraid to try new things. Although you may be retired and no longer live in an artist’s studio apartment, you may still be young at heart, so why not dress like such? Make an effort not to blend in with the crowd. Instead, try out new things like prints and striking designs. It shows in the way you hold yourself when you feel great in a piece of clothes.
Two-Piece Sets
By all means, wear a two piece set if you prefer the coverage and comfort that a style like this affords. Don’t be afraid to try on gowns that look to be “younger” if the two-piece formal dress does not represent your actual feelings. Take a look at how Jennifer Lopez and Sofia Vergara dress for red carpet appearances in Hollywood. They all have different styles, but none of them are restricted by age. Don’t allow your clothes age you is the key to maintaining a youthful appearance.
Cheap Fabrics
While it may be tempting to buy something for $15 rather than $50, keep in mind that high-quality materials appear very differently on the body. They move well, appear more fitting, and give your shape more structure. Wearing high-quality clothing elevates your image fast, making you appear refined and well-dressed rather than grungy. Many people look to be worn down as a result of the textiles they wear.
Trendy Sunglasses
There are certain styles of sunglasses that might be trendy, but that doesn’t mean they’ll look good on you in particular. Nowadays, it feels like everyone’s wearing dark, square sunglasses. Well, these sunglasses actually tend to highlight your wrinkles and eye bags. Go for a lighter pair of sunglasses both in lens shade and weight.
Bad Color Choices
Different colors don’t look the same on different skin tones! If you have a cooler skin tone, you’ll look great in cooler shades that have hints of grey or blue in their undertones. If you happen to have warm undertones to your skin, wear warmer colors that lean closer to yellows and reds. Following this rule will keep you from looking washed out.