No matter how much women try to convince themselves that they look younger than they actually are, it’s not entirely true. Outdated fashion choices can make you appear old and dated.
Many women have wardrobes filled with clothes that should have been discarded long ago, and follow outdated hair and skincare routines that belong in a different era. To avoid looking like a grandmother even in your 30s, avoid these fashion mistakes. Most of them can be easily corrected, and with some effort, you can see a positive change in your appearance.
1. Huge, poofy hair
Remember the Seinfeld episode where Kramer pointed out the female chiropractor’s poofy hair? Well, it turns out he had a point. Poofy hair is not exactly a youthful and trendy look, and excessive styling can be damaging to your hair.
If there’s a Wikipedia page dedicated to big hair, you know it’s not in style. Too much volume in your hair can actually age you instead of making you look good. It’s like those cringe-worthy high school yearbook photos from the ’70s that you wish never existed.
2. Avoid matching tops and bottoms together
You may have come across those pictures where people mix and match their outfits, but the truth is that they are often outdated and were taken a long time ago. While mixy-matchy clothes can appear charming, the truth is that they often look too contrived.
Even if you believe that these styles suit you, the reality is that they are more reminiscent of something a waitress at a diner would wear. Matching clothes are akin to wearing a uniform, and we have yet to see a uniform that looks flattering.
And poodle skirts? “No way, José!” We recommend donating such outfits to charity.
3. High waist jeans
The origin of high water jeans is uncertain, but whoever came up with this style deserves to be caught by the fashion police. Wearing them will instantly make you look 15 years older than you really are.
Unless you are into showing off your sock collection, avoid high water jeans at all costs. Even if you have a slim waistline and are in your twenties, these anti-style jeans will not do you any favors.
The main issue with high water jeans is the exposed ankles. Wearing them will make you look like an old hippie, and the Haight Ashbury era is long gone.
4. The plucking and tweezing sin
The concept of plucking and tweezing eyebrows to draw them in with heavy eyeliner seems like a strange idea. Although this practice dates back to the 1500s when Elizabethan women did it to create the illusion of bigger foreheads, which was associated with nobility.
Plucking eyebrows fell out of fashion but resurfaced with film stars like Marlene Dietrich. However, the bushy eyebrow look became popular again with Elizabeth Taylor’s rise to fame and has remained in style since. In any case, plucked eyebrows look awful, and permanent eyeliner tattoos are even worse.
5. Age as you are skincare routines
Many women in their 20s and early 30s tend to neglect their skincare routine. They take their youthful-looking skin for granted and assume it will remain the same. However, this assumption is far from the truth, and evidence of it can be seen on YouTube, where before and after photos of women in their 40s show significant aging compared to their drop-dead gorgeous 20s.
Dermatologists have reported that skin damage in your 20s can show up in your early 30s, so it’s best to take preventive measures and start a skincare routine early on. The earlier you address fine lines and wrinkles, the better the outcome.
6. Avoiding short sleeves
Many women feel self-conscious about their arms and avoid wearing short sleeves, even in hot weather. However, wearing long sleeves to cover up may actually draw more attention to their perceived imperfection.
In today’s body-positive era, having a little bit of arm flab is no longer a big deal, and women should feel comfortable showing off their arms. Instead of focusing on hiding their arms, women can opt for 3/4 length sleeves or shoulder-baring necklines to stay comfortable and fashionable regardless of the weather.
7. Pairing your lipstick with your dress
Gone are the days when women would spend hours trying to match their lipstick with their dress, only to end up with a formal and aging appearance. Trying to get the perfect shade is a futile exercise, so why bother?
Instead, opt for a vibrant, darker shade of lipstick that will make you look more youthful. A contrasting shade draws attention to your mouth, which tends to age less than other parts of your face. So, experiment with different shades and find the one that suits you best.
8. Big, clunky, old-lady handbags
Carrying a handbag big enough to hold a small country is a surefire way to make yourself look dated and older. In today’s fashion world, small, chic, and functional handbags are the way to go.
Younger women tend to opt for small, stylish bags that are easy to carry around. A small clutch is always a better choice than a massive, clunky purse. Not only are small bags more practical, but large bags can also make you look older and out of touch.
So, if you’re trying to keep up with the latest trends, ditch that old-lady handbag and downsize to something smaller and more modern.
9. Look, grandma, I’m wearing the underwear you bought me
Undergarment lines can quickly age a woman’s look. Even if you’re wearing a designer dress like Faye Dunaway, bra and panty lines should be kept hidden. But this doesn’t mean you have to forgo wearing undergarments entirely. Instead, opt for thicker or textured fabrics, use camouflage, or try wearing g-strings, thongs, or slips to keep your undergarments concealed.
It’s also important to avoid wearing anything too sheer that will show through your clothes. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your undergarments remain just between you and don’t detract from your overall look.
10. Wearing jersey fabrics
Jersey fabrics may be loved by some, but they tend to accentuate unflattering parts of a woman’s body, making her look gaunt. Although 20-something supermodels may be able to pull it off, women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s are often unable to do so.
While jersey fabric dresses were popularized by Coco Chanel in 1916, only a handful of designers have mastered the art of creating beautiful jersey pieces. In general, most jersey dresses look like they have been fashioned out of drapery material. It’s rare to find a jersey fabric that flatters either a younger or older woman.It’s time to let go of the past and move on from the 1916 trend.
11. Wearing tan pantyhose
Pantyhose manufacturers have long promoted the idea that women should wear stockings that are a few shades darker than their natural skin tone, but why? According to Mary Ward, a writer for Stuff Magazine, this trend represents a digital divide in corporate fashion.
However, the truth is that many women are now skipping pantyhose altogether, instead opting for fake tanning products to give their legs a flawless appearance. But for those who still prefer pantyhose, a simple nude shade is the way to go. Tan stockings can make your legs look unnaturally dark and unflattering. Avoid them at all costs.
12. Powder, powder and more powder
Women over 40 may have been taught that powder is the secret to looking beautiful. However, with modern liquid foundations, powder is often not necessary. Many older women feel they cannot live without it, but the plain fact is that messy powders separate them from their younger peers.
If you’re over 40 and want to use powder, make sure you’re using the latest powders that are lighter, cover blemishes better, and look more natural. Also, keep in mind that powder tends to be expensive.
13. The baggy clothes look
Wearing baggy clothes to hide one’s figure is a common practice among many women, but it’s an outdated trend that went out of fashion years ago. It doesn’t flatter most women and might make you look like you’re down on your luck. It’s like a middle-aged man dressing up in a disco outfit to go clubbing. To avoid looking dated, find a balance between loose and tight-fitting clothes.
If you still prefer to wear oversized clothing, try layering your clothes and using a belt to highlight your waistline. This technique helps create a more flattering silhouette.
14. Different decade, same old hairdo
High school yearbooks are often put away and forgotten after a year or two because many women are horrified by their outdated hairstyles. If you haven’t changed your hairstyle in 20 years, it’s definitely time to visit a beauty salon.
Updating your look from time to time is important because otherwise, your friends and family will always see you as the same old you. This can be especially detrimental for women who are looking to advance in their careers.
A new hairstyle can make you look much younger and fresher, so don’t be afraid to take the plunge and try something new.
15. Burn your mini-skirts
As you age, shorter hemlines, especially mini-skirts, may not be the most flattering choice. Even if you have a figure like Sharon Stone, it’s advisable for women over 40 to avoid anything that falls too far above the knee. This style can make you look like you’re trying too hard to look young.
While mini-skirts may look cute on younger women, they’re not ideal for older women. According to a survey by the Daily Mail of 2,000 women, the age cutoff for wearing a mini-dress was 35.
Choosing clothing appropriate for your age doesn’t mean you’re getting old, but rather dressing with class and style.
16. Story fashion pieces
Women often like to wear items that bring back nostalgic memories of a past time when they remember pieces of themselves. However, these “story fashion” pieces tend to date a woman’s style. For instance, if you wear a replica of Jackie Kennedy’s pillbox hat, most people will perceive it as being stuck in the Twilight Zone of the 60s.
While it’s perfectly fine to collect your favorite items from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s and store them in a chest, it’s best not to wear them. Wearing period clothing is just another way to appear outdated in fashion.
17. Quirky Sunglasses
While it may seem strange that there are so many styles of sunglasses available, we believe that there should be a limit of no more than five styles nationwide. Sunglasses serve an important purpose in protecting our eyes from harmful UV rays, but there are countless quirky sunglass shapes that not only fail to protect your eyes but also make older women look like they’re trying too hard to be trendy and youthful.
It’s rare for these sunglasses to actually provide the stylish look that you may think they do. Instead, choose a practical pair that complements your face and is appropriate for your age.
18. Really dark lipsticks
We are not sure how this trend began, possibly with the goth look, but it has become a part of the culture now for many women to wear really dark, and sometimes even black shades of lipstick. Unfortunately, this trend is not very flattering.
Women over 35 (and sometimes even before that) should avoid this trend like the plague. Dark lipsticks accentuate every line and wrinkle on a woman’s face. So if you want to look much older than your actual age, go ahead and buy the darkest shades possible.
Not only will dark lipstick make you look older, but it will also make it less likely that you’ll be kissed. We assume that most women prefer to have kissable lips.
19. Horrendous color choices
It’s a fact that some women struggle with choosing the right colors for their clothes, despite not being actually color-blind. The truth is that different colors can look great or terrible depending on your skin tone. It’s important to select colors that complement not only your skin tone but also your hair tone and eye color.
If you have a pinkish hue in your skin, opt for cool colors. If your skin has a yellowish tone, choose bright colors. Vibrant colors work well with black skin. It’s always a good idea to have a trusted friend with you when shopping to avoid color mistakes that can make you look older than you are.
20. Hiding your neck
Many people think that wearing a turtleneck will hide their wrinkles, but unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. In fact, wearing a turtleneck can actually draw more attention to your face and emphasize your wrinkles, which can make you look older.
Instead of a turtleneck, consider wearing a V-neck or scoop-neck top that will create a more balanced look between your face and neck. You can also add a collared shirt over your V-neck or scoop-neck top to add another layer and draw attention away from your wrinkles. Plus, it’s more comfortable than a tight-fitting turtleneck.
21. The All Black look
Opting for an all-black wardrobe may simplify your fashion choices, but it does not do justice to your sense of style, especially if you are over 30. Dressing solely in black may give off the impression that you are either training to become a nun or have joined a coven of witches.
To avoid unnecessary gossip or judgment, it’s advisable to add some color to your wardrobe. Your career, relationships, and social life may depend on it. Furthermore, black is not a forgiving color when it comes to wrinkles. This doesn’t mean you can never wear black, but it’s best to limit its use and incorporate other colors and styles into your outfits.
22. Avoid Tweed
Avoid wearing tweed as it can make you look much older than you are, even if you are just a child. Moreover, tweed tends to add volume to your body and if you are already overweight, it can make you appear even larger. On top of that, tweed requires expensive and difficult dry cleaning and can easily stain.
If you really must try tweed, consider pinstriped tweed which is a bit more stylish. But, in general, it’s best to leave tweed to the British aristocracy.
23. The trouble with denim
When it comes to denim, it can be tricky to get it right. As a woman over 40, it’s important to avoid the ripped jeans look – this is best left to younger women, as it can come across as trying too hard to look youthful.
While jeans can be appropriate for more casual occasions like a picnic, the fancier the occasion, the harder it is to pull off the right look.
Additionally, a jean jacket is not a good look for women over 40. The era of heavy metal is long gone, and there are more age-appropriate options to choose from.
24. Clunky jewelry
Chunky necklaces are no longer in style, and even when they were, they were on their way out. Wearing big jewelry pieces can come off as attention-seeking, and it’s not a good look for women over 50.
It’s best to opt for petite and delicate jewelry unless you can afford a massive diamond necklace. Wearing a big, clunky necklace in your 50s can draw attention to your neck, which is not a flattering look.
25. How to handle stretchy jeans
While we understand the appeal of stretchy jeans for their comfort, the more they stretch, the less flattering they can become. It is important to choose high-quality jeans with no more than 2-3% elastic fiber to avoid a lumpy appearance. Avoid jeans that stretch across several sizes at all costs.
Although it may require spending more, investing in high-end brands is worth it. Avoid the temptation to buy cheap jeans from China for $15 or less. Additionally, for those over 40, it is best to avoid jeans with a ripped knee effect as they can further age you.
It’s worth noting that looser, baggier jeans are currently in fashion.
26. Baggy clothes in general
Loose-fitting clothes may not be the most flattering choice for anyone, regardless of age. However, as you get older, the effect can be even more unflattering. While you don’t need to wear skin-tight clothing that requires a can of lubricant to put on, it’s best to stick with fitted clothes that complement your body shape.
If you’re struggling with weight issues, covering up with a baggy outfit won’t do you any favors. Instead, opt for clothing that fits well and accentuates your best features. A women’s boutique can provide expert advice on what styles and cuts are most flattering for you.
27. Really Chunky Sneakers and shoes
Not only do really chunky sneakers and shoes make you look significantly heavier, but they are not age-appropriate. A 50-year-old woman wearing chunky sneakers looks like she is caught in a time warp of the disco era.
Yes, you do see stars and Instagram influencers wearing them, but practically everyone is no older than 22 and weighs 115 lbs or less. For the average woman, chunky shoes also make their legs look chunky too.
The chunkier the shoes and the older you are, the more ridiculous you look. Shoes with kitten heels and ankle strap flats are the way to go.
28. Wearing clothes that are too trendy
Perhaps the reason clothes can be found at Poshmark and other high-end second-hand stores is because they are not always timeless pieces. While classics like leather and plaid are always in style, trends come and go quickly in fashion.
Investing in trendy clothing can be risky and expensive, especially for older women. It’s important to consider the longevity of your purchases and choose items that will last for several years, rather than just one season. Remember that fashion is like the weather; it changes constantly, so be cautious with your choices.
29. Wrapping your jacket around your waist
Tying your jacket around your waist was once an integral part of the grunge look that became popularized by Seattle grunge in the 1980s and which spread rapidly by the early 2000s. However, it is no longer a current trend. Even when it was trendy, it was not a style that older women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s could effortlessly carry off.
Tying your jacket around your waist accentuates your hips and is not a flattering look for most women. Additionally, do you want to be a woman in her 50s still attempting to cultivate a grunge style?
30. Tanning beds
The creation of tanning beds could be considered one of the biggest mistakes of the 20th century. Women exposed themselves to harmful UV rays in pursuit of year-round tans, disregarding the potential long-term effects on their skin.
The negative aspects of tanning beds are countless, from their dubious safety to the inevitable damage they inflict on women’s skin. One of the most concerning issues with tanning beds is the accelerated aging of the skin, which can lead to wrinkles and leathery texture.
While natural tanning also carries risks, tanning beds are especially hazardous. Research has shown a link between tanning beds and an increased risk of skin cancer.
31. Those flowery prints
While flowery prints were a big hit in the 60s, it’s important to realize that times have changed. While floral patterns are still around and can add a pop of color to an outfit, they can also make older women look outdated and even like grandmas.
The modern-day floral dress is typically short and flirty, perfect for the younger crowd. Unfortunately, we have yet to see one that wouldn’t make a middle-aged woman appear older than she is. Our suggestion is to let the younger generation enjoy this trend and explore other options for yourself.
32. Split end blues
Having split ends can make any woman look older, regardless of their age. To maintain a youthful appearance, it’s essential to visit the salon regularly. Split ends cannot be mended, and they need to be trimmed off, ideally every 6 weeks.
However, you can also take steps to prevent split ends from occurring. For instance, avoid washing your hair every day or washing it with only conditioner. Additionally, invest in high-quality natural shampoo products, and minimize chemical treatments like hair coloring and straightening, which can weaken your hair and lead to split ends.
33. Limit the blush
Overapplying blush can make a woman look like her grandmother at 80. Some men even question why blush is used at all, claiming it’s unnecessary.
The use of blush dates back to ancient Egyptian times, where it was believed to indicate high social status. However, it was not commonly worn by the average woman. Nowadays, with the idea of class being less important in society, blush is no longer necessary. While it can give a subtle rosy glow when applied correctly, many women opt to skip it altogether. Poorly applied blush can even look terrible.
34. Living in flats
While it’s true that many doctors and chiropractors recommend that women avoid high heels, wearing flats exclusively can make a woman appear older than she actually is. However, it’s important to note that not all flats are created equal – some can look more like slippers than professional attire.
If you’re a fan of flats, try mixing them up with some low-height heels every now and then. This will not only earn you more appreciation at the office, but people may even comment that you look like you’ve lost weight or are following a special diet. At the very least, try wearing heels once a week to work to keep your look fresh and youthful.
35. Becoming Logo Woman
Wearing branded logos from luxury brands such as Gucci, Calvin Klein, Coach, Louis Vuitton, and others may be considered tacky and unimpressive. The trend of wearing logos as a way to advertise products that one cannot afford is getting increasingly annoying. Unfortunately, becoming “logo woman” is quite prevalent, with over 40,000 search results for logo shirts on Amazon alone. Many of these shirts are even fake and not authorized by the companies themselves.
In reality, wearing logo clothing does not impress anyone and is simply a nuisance.
36. Really long skirts
Just because older women are no longer able to wear mini skirts, it doesn’t mean that their dresses should reach their ankles. The frumpy look of long skirts is only suitable for women trying to copy Sarah Jessica Parker’s style.
It’s a shame we’ve gone from mini skirts to ankle-length frumpiness. Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s should avoid this look as it can make them look older and it doesn’t flatter their figure. Wearing such unattractive and unflattering super long skirts is like wearing a shower curtain.
37. The rules of slouchy
Although we personally don’t prefer the slouchy look, it can work for younger women if done correctly. The key to pulling off slouchy pants is to pair them with a tight top, or if you wear tight pants, pair them with a loose and flowy top.
However, this look is generally not recommended for women in their 40s and above, as it can come off as too casual and reminiscent of the beatnik era. It’s understandable why many women avoid this style altogether.
38. The no show waist
The origin of this look is unknown, but for most mature women, it’s a definite fashion faux pas. The waistline is a defining feature between a woman’s bust and hips, and only slim, younger women can truly rock this style. Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s should emphasize their waist instead.
Thankfully, most middle-aged and older women are wise enough to not only showcase their waist but also enhance it with a belt. On the other hand, many young women attempting to sport this look end up resembling hospital attendants rather than fashion trendsetters.
39. Very heavy black eyeliner
Wearing thick heavy black eyeliner may give the impression of highlighting one’s beautiful eyes, but in reality, it tends to draw attention to wrinkles on the rest of the face. This is not a good fashion choice for any woman, particularly those in their 40s and above.
While younger women in their 20s and early 30s can still pull off this look, it’s not advisable as they age. Instead, opt for lighter shades and use less eyeliner to make your eyes sparkle without drawing attention to wrinkles.
40. Failure to have your clothes tailored
Getting clothes off the rack rarely results in a good fit for a woman’s body. Unless you shop at high-end stores that offer customer tailoring, it’s a good idea to take your clothes to a local dry cleaning shop to have them adjusted.
Yes, it may cost around $35 dollars to have a jacket tailored, but it’s worth it to look and feel confident. Proper fit is especially important for older women.
To look your best, you want your clothes to flatter your body shape. Tailoring is the key to achieving this.