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10 Fashion Choices That Make You Look Old & 10 That Make You Look Young


10 Fashion Choices That Make You Look Old & 10 That Make You Look Young


What You Wear Affects Your Age

Clothes are more than just things to put on and cover your body with - they're expressions of your personality and aesthetic. While some fashion choices we make look good on us and can even make us appear a certain way, there are some no-goes that you might want to avoid. Here are 10 fashion choices that'll make you look old and outdated and 10 that'll make you look young and stylish.

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1. Outdated Prints

Outdated prints like old-fashioned florals, stripes, or paisley patterns can instantly add on a couple of years to the wearer. They simply don't match with the times and can immediately evoke imagery of an older generation.

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2. Dark, Solid Colors

Dark, solid colours, especially black, can look harsh against the skin. While it's a colour that's often celebrated for its slimming effect, it's also one that makes people look more mature and older than they actually are.

A woman poses in a black gothic outfit.maks_d on Unsplash

3. Oversized Clothing

Oversized clothing is all the rage these days, but they lack shape and can drown out one's figure completely. If not styled well, it can also create a frumpy appearance that makes one look a lot older. They simply don't always fit well, leading to a failure of highlighting the body's natural appearance.

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4. Heavy Traditional Jewelry

Heavy traditional jewelry can easily look dated in today's generation. People today often opt for more minimalist pieces that look fresh and modern, so wearing rings and necklaces with designs that looks older and more rustic can make you feel out of place. 

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5. Too Much Layering

Similar to oversized clothing, too much layering can add a lot of unnecessary bulk and cause your body to look weirdly shaped. It obscures the body, contributing to a much older look. Layering clothes is all about strategy and finding the right fit for you!

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6. Turtlenecks Under Dresses

While wearing turtlenecks under dresses does provide nice warmth and can look stylish, it's all about harmonizing the colours and fabrics. When done wrong, the outfit simply looks too conservative and brings to mind a past generation.

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7. Shirt Buttoned All the Way Up

Wearing your shirt buttoned all the way up just looks harsh and extremely old-fashioned. When not paired with accessories that can soften the look, this style simply ages you, especially when worn in a more formal setting. It can't be all that comfortable either!

a man in a striped shirt tying his tieisaac macdonald on Unsplash

8. Pearl Necklaces

Pearl necklaces tend to bring forth a more mature, classic elegance that doesn't exactly translate to "youthful." It's the type of jewelry that tends to be associated with the older generation, maybe something your grandmother wore. While it's timeless, it has to be paired with the right modern look to feel and seem younger.

white pearl necklace on gray textileTiffany Anthony on Unsplash

9. Brooches and Large Pins

Brooches and large pins can be seen as old-fashioned, especially when worn in traditional ways, such as on the lapel of a coat or blazer. While they can be unique and personal, they often carry a vintage air to them that makes one seem like they might be from a different generation. 

gold and silver round analog watch on black and purple caseSterling & Wilde on Unsplash

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10. Boxy, Short-Sleeve Blouses

Boxy, short-sleeve blouses, particularly those in stiffer fabrics, can lack shape and modernity. This style feels reminiscent of older office wear looks, adding years to one's appearance especially when paired with other conservative articles of clothing. 

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1. Playful Accessories

To make yourself look more youthful, playful accessories like fun socks, bold sunglasses, or trendy hats can be an easy way to inject a younger spirit into your look. They give off the perfect effortless fun and carefree vibe you're going after. 

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2. Layered Necklaces

Women in this generation love layering necklaces, especially with varying lengths and small, delicate charms. There's a whimsical feel to it that gives off a modern vibe, giving your look a more casual and younger aesthetic.

Ron LachRon Lach on Pexels

3. Sneakers With Dresses

Forget about heels! Who wants to be uncomfortable all the time anyway? For a more trendy look that combines comfort with chic, try pairing your dress with some sneakers. Not only does it look good, you won't have to worry about your feet as you enjoy your lovely day out.

woman standing beside the fenceJapheth Mast on Unsplash

4. Denim Jackets

Denim jackets are the perfect example of a timeless piece of clothing that will always work. It's casual and effortless, and you don't need to do much with it to look stylish! Throw it over a classic white tee, a dress, or whatever you want!

close shot of person denim topBenjamin Voros on Unsplash

5. Graphic Tees

Graphic tees are a fun way to communicate your personality and interests, whether it's a band, a brand, or a message. Pairing a graphic tee with your look is a quick and simple way to make a statement. And whether you wear it with leggings, a skirt, or jeans, everything works. 

woman sitting on brown wooden benchMalcolm Lightbody on Unsplash

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6. Ankle Boots

Ankle boots give the perfect amount of heel, adding sophistication to your outfit without adding any pain. They're versatile too - you can pair them with jeans, skirts, or dresses, making them the ultimate staple in any wardrobe. 

woman in black chunky heels boots standing on gray floorCamila Damásio on Unsplash

7. Midi Skirts

Midi skirts with a vibrant print, colour, or in a flowing fabric can look both elegant and playful at the same time. It's the perfect balance between being too conservative and too revealing, ensuring that you're feeling good in what you're wearing while feeling comfortable and confident too.

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8. Bold Belts

Belts serve as the focal point of an outfit, whether you're cinching a dress or trying to add a bit of flair to your favourite pair of jeans. Using a statement belt can show off your style, adding an element of young energy thanks to your bold choice.

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9. Statement Sneakers

Statement sneakers are not just for the gym anymore. Bright colors, unusual textures, or unique designs make them a centerpiece for a youthful, on-trend outfit that also prioritizes comfort. While most people like to dress minimally on top, their shoe choice is where they really want all the attention to go. 

white and blue nike air force 1 highRyan Plomp on Unsplash

10. Soft, Layered Haircuts

Soft, layered haircuts can frame the face in a way that's very flattering and doesn't seem harsh. While not a clothing choice, the right hairstyle can make a big difference. It can significantly impact your overall appearance, making you look more vibrant and dynamic.

woman in red long sleeve shirt holding hair blowerAdam Winger on Unsplash