As we age, our bodies naturally change, and our fashion choices should evolve with them. However, a quick look at women in shopping malls or at school often reveals that many still struggle to dress appropriately for their age and body shape. Some dress too young, while others seem to neglect their appearance entirely.
It’s important to find a balance between staying stylish and embracing age-appropriate fashion. Avoiding common mistakes like outdated styles or overly youthful outfits can help moms present themselves confidently, without falling into the traps of either frumpiness or trying too hard to appear younger.
Stay away from leggings
Yoga pants, jeggings, and leggings have become wardrobe staples for many women, but they should be left out of your daily outfits. While they may be incredibly comfortable, leggings often give off a “lazy” vibe and can quickly make your appearance look outdated.
Many women tend to grab leggings first thing in the morning because of their ease, but unfortunately, they don’t contribute to a polished or stylish look. Instead, they can make you appear less put-together and even frumpy. Opting for more structured, flattering alternatives can help you maintain both comfort and a more fashionable appearance.
Stripes
Stripes are a timeless trend, but it’s important to choose the right type for a flattering look. Vertical stripes elongate the body, making you appear taller and slimmer, and should be chosen over horizontal stripes. For those with a bit more around the midsection, horizontal stripes can make you look wider and shorter, offering little flattery.
Additionally, wearing stripes on stripes is a big no; it can be visually overwhelming and unappealing. Instead, opt for a monochrome outfit to pair with stripes, creating a chic and balanced look. Avoid the sensory overload of too many stripes at once!
No to complicated hairstyles
Complicated hairstyles often demand more time than most of us can spare in our busy mornings. While we’re not advocating for a dull haircut, intricate styles can take up valuable time, especially when you’re trying to get everyone ready.
Although these hairstyles may look stunning, they’re often impractical for day-to-day life. A better option is to choose a simple, flattering haircut that suits your face shape and aligns with your personal style. Not only will this save you time, but it will also allow you to maintain a polished, effortless look without the stress of managing an overly complex style daily.
Avoid low-rise jeans
Low-waisted jeans were popular in the early 2000s, but today’s fashion trends favor high-waisted jeans, which are both flattering and functional. As we age, it’s essential to update our wardrobe, and a good pair of high-waisted jeans can make all the difference.
These jeans provide structure, enhance your figure, and are perfect for creating a sleek, stylish look. Not only do they elongate the legs and define the waist, but they also help conceal the “mommy tummy,” offering a more polished silhouette. Embracing high-waisted jeans is a simple, modern update that works wonders for all body types.
Away with Skinny Jeans
Thanks to Generation Z and their impact on fashion, skinny jeans are no longer in style, with many women now favoring regular cuts or mom jeans. Millennials, who once championed the skinny jean trend, have been disappointed to see them fall out of favor.
However, embracing a flattering regular-fit jean is a great way to stay stylish while keeping up with current trends. High-waisted jeans, in particular, have become a popular and practical option, offering both comfort and style. They accentuate the waist, elongate the legs, and provide a more balanced silhouette, making them a must-have in any wardrobe.
Hide the thong
The term “underwear” clearly indicates where it belongs—under your clothes. If you prefer wearing a thong, that’s perfectly fine, but it’s important to ensure it doesn’t peek out from your pants. While visible thongs might have been a trend in the ’90s, it’s now considered a fashion faux pas and looks tacky.
Showing your thong isn’t stylish anymore. Unless you’re Britney Spears from the early 2000s or working part-time at a gentleman’s club, it’s best to choose well-fitting underwear that stays hidden. Keep your look polished by making sure your undergarments remain just that—under your clothes.
Pack away the baggy clothes
As a mom, much of your time is spent taking the kids to school, managing the household, and running errands. It’s easy to throw on a baggy T-shirt or hoodie over leggings for comfort, but that’s the quickest way to look outdated.
There are times when loose clothing is acceptable, like when attending your child’s sports game and wearing a fan jersey, or on cozy winter weekends when you’re indoors playing board games with the family. However, for daily wear, it’s best to opt for more fitted, stylish pieces that keep you looking put-together and modern, without sacrificing comfort.
Keep maxi dresses to a minimum
Maxi dresses are great for covering unflattering areas on hot days, but they can quickly look outdated if the dress isn’t cut well or features bold, flashy prints. If you love a good maxi dress and can’t imagine going without one, choose a simple color and avoid prints or textures that make the dress look overwhelming.
Add shape to your maxi dress by cinching it at the waist with a belt, and always ensure that your bra straps are covered or opt for a strapless bra to keep the look polished and stylish without appearing too casual or sloppy.
Tailored clothing that fits you well
It’s rare to find jeans or other clothing that fits perfectly, as if made just for you. When you have your clothes tailored to your body, you’ll look far better than if you had simply picked something off the rack. Ask friends and family for a recommended tailor and have your clothes altered to avoid an unflattering appearance.
Nothing is more frustrating than jeans that are just too long for your legs. Tailoring ensures your clothes fit properly, enhancing your overall look and making you appear polished and put-together, no matter what you’re wearing.
Skip the sneakers
Sneakers are comfortable, but when worn incorrectly, they can quickly make even the most stylish outfit look casual and outdated. Paired with jeans and a hoodie or sweater, sneakers are often the go-to for many women, but they should be chosen carefully.
Wear sneakers on days when you’re on your feet a lot, like when shopping or running errands. Pumps are a great alternative to sneakers. They’re comfortable and add a touch of glamour to any outfit, instantly elevating your look without sacrificing style or sophistication. Choose wisely to keep your outfits looking chic and polished.
Say goodbye to side-boob
There’s nothing worse than wearing an ill-fitting bra under a tight T-shirt or sweater. If you’ve never been properly measured for a bra, it’s time to do so. A well-fitting bra can completely transform your appearance. Say goodbye to your breasts spilling out of the bra or riding up, which causes those unsightly back bulges.
Get measured today. Most lingerie stores and department stores offer this service for free, and it’s well worth the effort. A properly fitted bra not only enhances your look but also provides much-needed comfort and support throughout the day.
Don’t overdo it with designer clothes
Designer clothes are great for treating yourself and for special occasions. However, if you’re wearing your Gucci jeans with a Louis Vuitton shirt or dressing head-to-toe in designer labels for the school run, you might be going a bit overboard.
Balance your designer pieces with comfortable classics to tone down the look, and use accessories to add some flair. Save your designer outfits for moments when you need a boost or when you’re heading out to dinner with your partner. This way, you’ll keep your style elegant without looking too flashy or overdone for everyday activities.
Keeping up with others isn’t always a good thing
Keeping up with ever-changing fashion trends can be both challenging and costly. Instead of chasing every new style, invest in a few key pieces that work with your everyday wardrobe. Pair trendy items with timeless staples like well-fitted jeans or tailored pants to add a touch of sophistication without overdoing it.
Constantly wearing the latest trends can sometimes have the opposite effect, making you look like you’re trying too hard. By focusing on a balanced wardrobe of classic and stylish pieces, you’ll create a more polished and effortless look that stands out for the right reasons without breaking the bank.
Invest in a capsule wardrobe
When you open your closet in the morning to pick out an outfit, you shouldn’t feel panicked. Instead of constantly buying new clothes, invest in a few classic pieces that you can mix and match to look good and feel comfortable. Pinterest, fashion blogs, and even magazines are great sources of inspiration when selecting items for a capsule wardrobe.
Do some research, learn how to put together different outfits, and focus on the essentials. A capsule wardrobe not only simplifies your mornings but also ensures you always have stylish, versatile options to suit any occasion without feeling overwhelmed.
Avoid flashy looks
Neon colors, shirts with rips and cuts, and pants that are either too short or excessively tight certainly attract attention. However, the attention garnered may not be the type you desire or require. Nothing quite screams “a wolf in sheep’s clothing” more effectively than a flashy outfit or clothing styles specifically tailored to appeal to the younger generation.
While these fashion choices are certainly not outdated or old-fashioned, it is important to consider dressing in a manner that is appropriate for your age. Aligning your attire with your age can help convey the right message and ensure that you are perceived in a manner that accurately reflects who you are.
Dress appropriately for the occasion
Are you taking your children to school? A pair of jeans, a classic white t-shirt, and some pumps are perfect. Meeting with the principal or having a meeting with the boss? Black pants and a white button-up shirt are more suitable.
Dress appropriately for the occasion. Nothing is worse than overdressing or underdressing for any event. When choosing your outfit, consider where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and the impression you want to make.
Leave outdated trends where they belong – in the past
Fashion trends are fleeting. What is considered trendy today can become outdated tomorrow. It is risky to buy clothes that are currently in vogue or to wear clothes that aren’t trending. This may sound complicated, but you can ensure that you present yourself fashionably by investing in classic clothing pieces instead of those that are just popular.
Jeans, blazers, t-shirts, and button-up shirts are always in style and can be accessorized or worn casually depending on the occasion. By focusing on timeless staples, you maintain a stylish appearance without constantly chasing the latest trends.
Crop tops are for teenagers
The crop top is another fashion item that is dressed like a lamb and not intended for the older generation. Sure, crop tops are great for the gym, but nothing screams “young” more than wearing a crop top with jeans in the supermarket. Leave crop tops to the youth and focus on tailored, well-fitting clothing that provides you with an elegant and polished look.
By choosing classic, tailored pieces, you can achieve a sophisticated appearance that suits your age, avoiding styles that may make you appear out of place or trying too hard to seem younger. Opt for garments that enhance your maturity and convey a refined sense of style.
Appropriate outfits
Coordinated outfits for moms and dads are super cute, and many designers consider this when creating their clothing. In numerous stores, the same outfits are available in both adult and children’s sizes, allowing you to dress in harmony with your child.
However, it’s unappealing when you match your partner’s outfits. We’re not talking about wearing the same colored top or sweater, but completely matching outfits from head to toe look tacky and can make you appear outdated for your age. It’s best to maintain individual styles while ensuring that your clothing complements each other subtly, avoiding overly matching ensembles that can be off-putting and make you seem less mature.
Short shorts do not complement aging skin!
Summer can be brutal, and as temperatures rise, the temptation to wear as little as possible to stay cool becomes strong. By choosing lightweight fabrics and breathable textures, you can look stylish while remaining comfortable in the heat.
Nobody wants their butt to show through shorts. Therefore, always try on shorts before purchasing them to ensure a proper fit. Skirts are an excellent alternative for coping with the heat, available in various lengths, styles, and fabrics. They offer a versatile and fashionable way to stay cool without compromising on appearance. Additionally, opting for skirts can provide more coverage and comfort, making them a practical choice for summer outings and activities.
Show yourself at your best
Choosing comfortable shoes that also look good is a challenge we’ve all faced at some point. Winter brings snow and is a season when many women search for warm, comfortable footwear that protects them from the elements. Ladies, we are here to tell you that Ugg or Sherpa boots are a no-go and should only be worn indoors!
Instead, invest in a quality pair of leather boots that offer both style and warmth. Leather boots are durable, versatile, and can be paired with various outfits, allowing you to brave the cold with elegance and sophistication. By selecting the right footwear, you can stay cozy and fashionable throughout the winter months.
Let your personality shine through
The choice of your clothing says a lot about your personality. If you’re quirky and want to express that in your wardrobe, you should do so thoughtfully. Bright, vibrant colors and unique designs might be your thing, but it’s important to hold back and focus on one bright or bold piece at a time to avoid overwhelming your look.
Jewelry is a fantastic way to enhance your outfit; with a few statement pieces, you can add a touch of your personality and personal style. By carefully selecting key elements of your attire, you allow your individuality to shine through without compromising the overall harmony and elegance of your appearance.
Say ‘No’ to self-tanning products
Having tanned skin is great when you’re going on a beach vacation or attending a special occasion where you want to look stunning. Unfortunately, many people turn to self-tanning products to achieve a bronzed complexion. However, with makeup and a few online tutorials, you can attain a naturally tanned look without resorting to messy self-tanners that make you look more like a carrot than a bronze goddess.
By utilizing these alternative methods, you can enhance your appearance gracefully and maintain a more authentic and flattering tan that complements your features without the artificial and uneven results often associated with self-tanning products.
Style your mom jeans
One of the biggest challenges with mom jeans is figuring out how to style them so they don’t appear outdated. This year, mom jeans are extremely trendy, prompting many fashion bloggers, influencers, and fashion magazines to share valuable tips on how to wear mom jeans correctly. Browse Pinterest for creative ideas and learn how to style your mom jeans the right way.
After all, who says you can’t be comfortable while still looking stylish? With the right styling techniques, you can achieve a fashionable and modern look with mom jeans, ensuring you stay on trend without sacrificing comfort. Embrace versatility and confidence in your wardrobe choices.
Keep your makeup to a minimum
Learning to apply makeup correctly is one of the simplest ways to look good regardless of your age. Use only the products you need and tailor your makeup to each specific occasion instead of overwhelming yourself with too many products.
Makeup should serve to enhance your facial features, highlighting your natural beauty rather than masking it. By focusing on a minimalistic approach, you can achieve a fresh and polished appearance that feels authentic and age-appropriate. Remember, less is often more when it comes to makeup. Emphasizing subtle enhancements ensures that your makeup complements your look without making you appear overly made up.
Save the capris for the island trip
Capri pants are not the most flattering pants in the world. Depending on where they end, they can make your calves appear oversized and unnecessarily emphasize the thigh area. This can create an unbalanced look and detract from your overall outfit. Instead, opt for a great pair of tailored pants at a ¾ length, which offer a more streamlined and elegant appearance.
These pants provide a flattering fit that enhances your silhouette without drawing undue attention to any specific area. Alternatively, choose culottes if you prefer not to wear long pants. Culottes offer a stylish and comfortable option that can complement various body types, ensuring you look both fashionable and put-together.
Wear Pastel Colors with Care
Pastel tones are among the most feminine colors you can wear, but they can also make you appear quite old. Instead of dressing entirely in pastel colors from head to toe, choose one pastel-colored garment and pair it with fun accessories.
For example, a pastel-colored camisole under a dark blazer or jacket can add a touch of color and femininity to your outfit. This approach allows you to incorporate the softness of pastels without overwhelming your look. Balancing pastels with darker or neutral pieces ensures a stylish and age-appropriate appearance.
Say ‘No’ to polo collars
A great way to keep your neck warm without using a scarf to enhance your outfit is by wearing a turtleneck sweater, depending on your personal style and climate. However, it is important to choose your turtleneck carefully. Large sweaters with a cowl neck are suitable for any age group, providing both comfort and versatility.
Additionally, thicker, chunky turtleneck sweaters offer extra warmth and a stylish appearance. Avoid slim-fit turtleneck sweaters, as they can appear too tight and may emphasize forehead wrinkles. While slim turtlenecks can help conceal wrinkles around the neck area, they often draw attention to other parts of your face, creating an unbalanced look. Opting for the right fit ensures a flattering and age-appropriate ensemble.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Buying cheaper clothing might seem like a smart choice initially, but it can end up costing you more in the long run since such items often need to be replaced more frequently. Instead, invest in high-quality garments that will last you several seasons, providing better durability and timeless style.
Essential classics to include in your wardrobe are a well-fitting pair of jeans, a black sweater, a tailored blazer, a crisp white button-up shirt, and a stylish handbag or wallet. These staple pieces not only offer versatility and longevity but also help you create a polished and cohesive look without constantly updating your wardrobe.
Say Goodbye to the Grandma Sweater
On the in-between days when the sun is shining and the air is cool, dressing appropriately can be challenging. Many women reach for a cardigan to wear over their T-shirt or shirt during these times. However, cardigans are often seen as outdated and old-fashioned, typically associated with grandmas. Instead, opting for a lightweight jacket or a blazer in a neutral color can keep you warm without being too heavy.
Additionally, these alternatives can instantly add glamour to your look, depending on how you style them. A well-fitted blazer or chic lightweight jacket not only provides practicality but also enhances your overall appearance, making it a more modern and stylish choice than traditional cardigans.
Don’t Make Logos Too Prominent
College sweatshirts will always be popular, but be careful how you style them and what you pair them with. A logo sweatshirt matched with coordinating sweatpants might seem like a great outfit for a Saturday morning running errands, but it’s the easiest and most common way to look outdated in no time.
Instead, combine your oversized sweatshirt with jeans or shorts, even leggings. Choose a contrasting color so you don’t resemble a piece of fruit, and remember to keep your shoes casual. This approach allows you to stay comfortable while maintaining a stylish and modern appearance.
Grab a Belt
If you don’t have a belt in your wardrobe yet, it’s time to get one quickly. Belts are no longer just for holding up pants; they can also be used to cinch the waist when wearing a dress or even as a tie to give an oversized cardigan more shape.
A belt can enhance your overall look and add a stylish touch to any outfit. Opt for neutral shades and invest in classic black and brown tones that can be paired with any ensemble. By choosing versatile options, you ensure that your belt complements various outfits, making it a valuable addition to your wardrobe.
Inappropriate or Too Tight Clothing
We all have a pair of jeans that we keep at the back of our closet for “when we lose weight.” While this can be a good motivation to hit the gym or eat healthily, it ultimately wastes money. Instead, invest in clothing that fits you properly and try on each piece before purchasing it in-store.
Clothing sizes can vary significantly between different brands and stores; a size six in one store may fit like an eight in another. Prioritizing the right fit not only enhances your appearance but also ensures you feel comfortable and confident in your outfits.
Makeup Tips to Remember
The 1980s were fantastic and introduced some of the most vibrant makeup looks, but dark eyeshadows and bright lipsticks should stay in that decade where they belong. Neutral tones that complement your skin tone and eye color can create a more refined appearance than a bold eyeshadow that clashes with your look.
Choosing a lipstick that harmonizes with your overall style is also crucial; neutral shades are the most versatile and pair well with any outfit. By opting for subtlety over intensity, you can achieve a sophisticated and modern makeup look that enhances your natural beauty without overwhelming it.
Hair Problems
Hair trends change as quickly as fashion trends. Remember the long hair of the 1980s? Modern hair trends focus on sleek cuts that are easy to maintain and style. Choose a hairstyle that flatters your face shape and opt for an age-appropriate cut.
Skip the perm and instead consider a long bob, which offers a fresh and stylish look while being versatile enough for various occasions. A well-executed long bob can enhance your features and provide a polished appearance, making it a great choice for a contemporary, chic style that complements your personal aesthetic.
When Flowers Are Your Enemy
Flowers are one of the most feminine prints, but choosing the wrong floral design can drastically change your look, making you appear outdated and older than you are.
Avoid floral patterns that resemble your grandma’s curtains and opt for smaller floral prints like daisies or tropical flowers to add some flair to your outfit. Stick to one type of flower in your clothing to maintain a cohesive look rather than going for an overly busy pattern. This approach ensures that your floral choices enhance your style while keeping it fresh and modern.
Yoga Pants and Camel Toes
Yoga pants are very popular among women and are great for the gym. However, that’s where they belong – at the gym. While yoga pants may be comfortable, they can become a bit of an eyesore when they cause the dreaded camel toe that often accompanies wearing them.
Pairing yoga pants with a thong only exacerbates the issue and should be avoided altogether. Keep your yoga pants for yoga sessions and opt for a pair of comfortable trousers made from a more flattering fabric for casual outings. This way, you can maintain comfort without sacrificing style.
Accessories Are Your Friend
The right accessories can elevate any outfit and add a touch of glamour. However, be cautious of large, flashy pieces that can be too overpowering. If you wear small earrings, a larger necklace can balance the look, but be careful not to wear both large earrings and a statement necklace at the same time.
Choose your accessories thoughtfully, selecting pieces that complement your outfit rather than overshadowing it. By striking the right balance, you can create a polished appearance that highlights your style while ensuring your overall look remains harmonious and sophisticated.
Hair Highlights Dos and Don’ts
Highlights are a great way to add some color to your hair, but they should always be done by someone who knows what they’re doing. Large, chunky highlights can look tacky and are often associated with the stereotypical “Karen” hairstyle. Instead, opt for subtle highlights and lowlights in similar shades to create depth and warmth in your hair.
This approach will enhance your natural beauty while keeping your look polished and sophisticated. By choosing more delicate highlights, you can achieve a vibrant yet refined style that complements your overall appearance.
Sheer Tights Are a Fashion Faux Pas
In the past, stockings were considered elegant and were worn with dresses and skirts to add a touch of sophistication. However, younger generations have moved away from sheer stockings, with many opting for bare legs instead. With the advent of tinted creams and lotions, stockings have become outdated and are no longer the must-have fashion accessory they once were in our grandparents’ era.
Today, achieving a polished look can easily be accomplished with skin care products that enhance your natural skin tone, making stockings less relevant in modern fashion. This shift reflects changing attitudes towards style and personal preference.
Foundation Mistakes
One of the toughest decisions when applying makeup is choosing the right foundation color for your skin tone. Consulting with a salesperson can be helpful in making the best purchase decision. The foundation should not cover freckles or other beauty marks but should instead serve to conceal imperfections and create an even base for your makeup.
If you’re fortunate enough to have clear, beautiful skin, you might even skip foundation altogether and opt for a tinted moisturizer instead. This lighter option provides a natural finish while still offering some coverage, allowing your skin to shine through beautifully.
Focusing on the Eyes
As we age, the need for glasses can increase. Choosing the right pair can be challenging, especially when trying to align them with your desired style or look. Opt for glasses that highlight your eyes, are not too bulky, and can be worn daily with any outfit.
Glasses can be considered a fashionable accessory, so select a pair that you know will complement your overall appearance. Look for frames that suit your face shape and enhance your features, ensuring they enhance your style rather than detract from it. A well-chosen pair of glasses can elevate your look and boost your confidence.
