When Style Choices Affect Perception
Fashion is incredibly subjective, and there's no universal rule for what makes someone look older or younger. Still, certain clothing and styling choices are often described by men as making a woman appear more mature, particularly when those choices are dated, overly formal, or don't fit the rest of an outfit. That doesn't mean you should stop wearing something you genuinely love, but understanding how particular choices can affect perception may help if you're trying to create a more current look.
1. Wearing Outdated Matching Sets
Sometimes when you match everything from your jacket to your pants to your top and even your accessories, it can give off an older look. Mixing complementary pieces can give the same polished appearance while making the outfit feel more contemporary.
2. Choosing Extremely Formal Clothes for Everyday Errands
A structured blazer and dress pants certainly have their place, but wearing formal office clothing everywhere can make a casual outing feel unnecessarily serious. If you're heading to lunch or running errands, a relaxed combination may look more current. You don't need to dress like you're heading into a board meeting every time you leave the house.
3. Wearing Outdated Denim Cuts
Jeans go out of style quickly as well. There are many styles of jeans that will date your outfit immediately. Some jeans are so old-fashioned people will stare. If you like denim, try some new cuts and washes to freshen up your wardrobe.
4. Overloading an Outfit With Accessories
Just because you want to accessorize your outfit doesn't mean you're going to throw on every necklace, bracelet, ring, etc., you own. When you overdo your accessories, your whole outfit will look dated. Choosing a few pieces you genuinely like can create a cleaner appearance.
5. Wearing Clothes That Are Too Conservative
While some people think conservative never dates you, there are some clothes that do. If you have an outfit that has a high-necked shirt, adding one modern element can make the outfit feel more balanced.
6. Choosing Very Large Floral Prints
Floral patterns can be beautiful, but certain oversized designs are strongly associated with traditional styles. Large flowers combined with muted colors and old-fashioned silhouettes may contribute to a more mature appearance. If you love florals, experimenting with smaller prints or updated color combinations can provide a different effect.
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7. Wearing Cardigans With Every Outfit
Cardigans are amazing to have in your closet. However, if you're wearing one with every outfit, you're going to start looking old-fashioned. Swapping in a cropped jacket, modern sweater, or relaxed overshirt occasionally can change the entire outfit.
8. Choosing Shoes That Look Extremely Dated
Don't forget about your shoes; they can date you as well. Shoes can be bulky or have too many details on them that can give your outfit an older look. You don't have to wear uncomfortable, trendy shoes, either, because plenty of comfortable options have modern shapes.
9. Wearing Pearls With Everything
Similar to the first tip, wearing pearls with everything you own can make your outfit appear older. Pearls can look classy, but if you pair them with everything you own, people will notice. Mixing them with contemporary clothing can make the look feel less predictable.
10. Relying Too Heavily on Beige
Everyone loves to wear beige; it's such a versatile color. But if your whole outfit is beige or close to beige colors, you may appear older as well. You don't need a bright wardrobe to make neutrals feel fresh.
11. Wearing Clothes That Don't Fit Properly
Another tip is making sure your clothes fit you correctly. You may be wearing your size, but if it looks too loose on your body, it can make your outfit appear dated. Finding the right fit is often more effective than buying an entirely new wardrobe.
12. Choosing Excessively Long Skirts Without Balancing the Outfit
Wearing a long skirt is fine, but pay attention to what you're pairing it with. If you have a longer-length skirt on and you're wearing flats, a high-neck shirt, and a cardigan, you may look a bit dated.
13. Wearing Matching Handbags and Shoes
Many people used to think matching your handbag and shoes was a great way to dress. It's not necessarily that bad if you're doing it, but people don't really do that anymore. So if you're trying to keep up with fashion, don't match them.
14. Choosing Heavy, Complicated Jewelry
Similar to the first tip about accessories, if you're wearing large jewelry, it's going to make your outfit appear older. There's nothing wrong with having jewelry that stands out, but don't go overboard. One nice piece of jewelry can complete your outfit.
15. Wearing Outdated Formal Dresses
Make sure you don't wear dresses that have become out of fashion. If you have ruffles, sequins, and stiff fabric, you may be wearing clothes from years ago. Always try to wear newer styles of dresses to help your outfit appear fresher.
16. Overusing Matching Patterns
Just because something has a print doesn't mean you're going to wear the same print throughout your whole outfit. If you wear a floral blouse and matching scarf, letting one print take the lead usually gives the outfit some breathing room.
17. Choosing Heavy Makeup Alongside Formal Clothing
Your face plays a role in your outfit as well. If you're wearing too much makeup, you may appear older. A lighter approach can sometimes let the clothing and natural features stand out more.
18. Wearing the Same Hairstyle for Decades
Just like your face, your hair can date you too. If you have the same hairstyle from years ago, your whole look can appear dated. That doesn't mean you need to chase every hairstyle trend, but even a small update can refresh your appearance.
19. Avoiding All Current Trends
Everyone shouldn't have the same clothes as others do. But by not trying new styles of clothing, you're going to look dated eventually. Incorporating one or two current elements while keeping your personal favorites can provide a comfortable middle ground.
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20. Dressing According to Rules From Another Era
There are so many fashion rules out there that people used to follow. Rules about matching colors, coordinating accessories, choosing specific hemlines, or dressing for your age can become outdated as styles change. If you like what you're wearing and it fits well, there's no reason to abandon it just because someone else thinks it belongs to a different decade.
