23 Surprising Style Decisions That Make You Look Older Than You Actually Are

We all care about looking our best, don’t we? It’s not just about following the latest trends, it’s about feeling confident and comfortable in our own skin. What we wear plays a huge role in how we see ourselves and how others perceive us. 

But here’s the thing, sometimes the clothes we choose might accidentally make us look older than we are. The good news is, with a few simple tweaks, we can freshen up our style and knock years off our look, without sacrificing comfort or trying to dress like teenagers!

In this article, I’m going to share 23 fashion trends that could be adding years to your look without you even realizing it. For each trend, I’ll give you some cool alternatives that’ll keep you looking youthful and offer easy, practical tips to update your style. 

Ready to refresh your wardrobe and boost your confidence? Let’s get started! 

Mom Jeans: The Comfy Culprit 

Mom jeans might seem like a cozy choice, but they can actually make you look older than you are. These high-waisted, loose-fitting jeans often create an unflattering shape that emphasizes the waist and hips in a way that’s not always flattering. 

Instead of reaching for those mom jeans, try a pair of straight-leg or slim-fit jeans. These styles will show off your shape in a more modern way. Look for jeans with a mid-rise waist, they’re comfy and stylish. 

If you want to keep the high-waisted look, go for a more tailored fit that hugs your curves. Remember, the right pair of jeans can make you feel like a million bucks!

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Super Baggy Clothes: Less is More

We all love comfortable clothes, but wearing things that are too big can hide your figure and make you look frumpy. Baggy clothes can drown out your natural shape and give the impression that you’re trying to hide. 

The key is to find a balance between comfort and style. Look for clothes that skim your body without clinging too tightly. Soft, flowing fabrics can give you the comfort you want without the bulk. 

Try a loose blouse paired with fitted pants, or a flowy dress with a belt to define your waist. These combinations will keep you looking put-together and youthful without sacrificing comfort.

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Shapeless Cardigans: Cozy but Cautious

Oversized, shapeless cardigans might feel like a warm hug, but they can add unnecessary bulk to your outfit and make you look dated. The good news is you don’t have to give up on cozy cardigans altogether! 

Look for styles that have some structure to them. A cardigan that’s fitted at the shoulders and tapers slightly at the waist can work wonders. You could also try a stylish jacket as an alternative. 

A denim jacket or a sleek blazer can add warmth and style to your outfit without aging you. The right cardigan or jacket can be a versatile piece in your wardrobe, perfect for layering in any season.

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Unflattering Prints: Choose Wisely

Prints can be fun, but some can make your outfit look outdated. Large floral patterns or designs that were popular decades ago might not translate well into a modern look. This doesn’t mean you have to stick to solid colors, though! 

Look for prints that are current and flattering. Smaller, more subtle prints can be a great choice. Geometric patterns or abstract designs can add interest to your outfit without overwhelming it. 

If you love florals, try smaller blooms or more abstract floral designs. The right print can add personality to your outfit and keep you looking fresh and stylish.

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Chunky Old Belts: Slim Down

Big, chunky belts with oversized buckles can throw off your outfit’s balance and add years to your look. These belts can cut your body in half visually, which isn’t always flattering. Instead, try thinner belts that complement your outfit rather than dominate it. 

A slim belt in a neutral color can define your waist without being too obvious. You could also experiment with no belt at all, letting your clothes speak for themselves. 

If you want to make a statement with your belt, look for modern styles with interesting textures or subtle details. The right belt can pull your whole outfit together in a youthful, stylish way.

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Outdated Glasses: Frame Your Face Right

Your glasses are a big part of your look, and outdated frames can age you significantly. Those oversized glasses your grandma used to wear? They might not be doing you any favors. The good news is, there are so many stylish options available now! 

Look for frames that complement your face shape. Smaller, more delicate frames can give a youthful appearance. If you love bigger frames, go for modern shapes in current colors. 

Don’t be afraid to try on lots of different styles, you might be surprised at what looks good on you. The right glasses can brighten up your whole face and take years off your look.

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High Necklines: Open Up

Tops with very high necklines can sometimes make you look older. They can hide your neck and collarbones, which are naturally youthful features. Try tops with lower necklines like V-necks or scoop necks. 

These styles elongate your neck and create a more open, fresh look. If you’re not comfortable with low necklines, a slight V or a modest scoop can still make a big difference. 

You could also try tops with interesting neckline details, like a small keyhole or a subtle cutout. These little touches can add a youthful, modern flair to your outfit.

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Ill-Fitting Pencil Skirts: Tailor for Success

Pencil skirts can be super stylish, but if they don’t fit well, they can highlight areas you might prefer to downplay. A pencil skirt that’s too tight or too loose can make you look older than you are. 

The solution? Make sure your skirts fit just right. A well-fitted pencil skirt should skim your curves without clinging too tightly. If you’re not sure about pencil skirts, try an A-line skirt. 

This style is flattering on most body types and gives a youthful, flirty vibe. Remember, the right fit can make all the difference in how young and confident you look.

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Too Many Layers: Keep It Simple

Piling on lots of layers might seem cozy, but it can make your outfit look messy and old-fashioned. When you wear too many pieces at once, it’s easy to lose your shape and look bulky. The trick is to keep your layering simple and purposeful. 

Start with a base layer that fits well, then add one or two pieces on top. A nice blouse under a fitted sweater, or a dress with a light jacket, can look put-together without the bulk. 

If you need extra warmth, try a sleek, long coat instead of multiple thin layers. Remember, each piece should add to your outfit, not hide it.

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Bermuda Shorts: The Leg Shortener

Bermuda shorts can be tricky. They often hit at an awkward length that makes legs look shorter and wider. This can add years to your appearance without you realizing it. If you love shorts, try styles that end just above the knee. 

These show more legs and create a longer, leaner line. For a more polished look, you could swap shorts for cropped pants or a knee-length skirt. 

These options give you the coverage you want while keeping your look fresh and youthful. Play around with different lengths to find what works best for your body shape.

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Accessory Overload: Less is More

Loading up on accessories might seem fun, but too many can overwhelm your outfit and age you. Big, chunky jewelry or lots of small pieces can look cluttered. Instead, pick a few key pieces that really shine. 

Maybe a statement necklace with simple earrings, or a stack of delicate bracelets. When you limit your accessories, each piece gets a chance to stand out. 

This creates a more elegant, put-together look. Don’t forget, sometimes the best accessory is a great smile and confidence!

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Old-School Handbags: Update Your Arm Candy

Carrying an outdated bag can make your whole outfit look old. Those huge, shapeless bags or tiny, overly decorated purses might be holding you back. Look for bags with clean lines and simple designs. 

A classic tote or a sleek crossbody bag can go with almost anything. Choose a bag that’s big enough for your needs but doesn’t overwhelm your frame. 

Neutral colors like black, brown, or navy are always in style, but don’t be afraid to pick a bag in a bright color for a fun pop.

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Matching Shoes and Bag: Mix It Up

Matching your shoes exactly to your bag used to be the fashion rule, but now it can look a bit dated. These days, it’s all about creating an interesting mix. Feel free to play with different colors and textures. 

Your shoes and bag don’t need to match, they just need to go well together. For example, you could pair brown boots with a black bag, or mix a colorful purse with neutral shoes. This approach keeps your look fresh and shows off your personal style.

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Super Stiff Blazers: Loosen Up

Very structured blazers can look too formal and aging, especially if they’re boxy or have big shoulder pads. The key is to find blazers with a softer structure. Look for styles made from more flexible fabrics that move with you. 

A slightly fitted blazer can create a great silhouette without being too stiff. For a more casual vibe, you could try a knit blazer or even swap the blazer for a stylish cardigan. The goal is to look polished but relaxed.

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Old-Fashioned Shoes: Step Into Style

Some shoe styles, like kitten heels or certain types of flats, can look outdated and add years to your appearance. To keep your look current, try modern flats with interesting details or comfortable sneakers for casual days. 

If you like heels, block heels or wedges offer stability and style. Ankle boots are another great option that works with many outfits. The right shoes can really update your entire look, so don’t be afraid to try new styles.

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Blingy Jeans: Keep It Simple

Jeans with lots of sparkles, embroidery, or flashy details can look like they’re stuck in the past. For a more timeless look, stick to simple, classic denim styles. A good pair of well-fitting jeans in a dark or medium wash can be dressed up or down and always looks fresh. 

If you want to add some interest, try jeans with subtle details like unique stitching or a raw hem. These small touches keep your look current without going overboard.

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Thin Eyebrows: Embrace the Full Brow

Super thin eyebrows were once in style, but they can now make you look older. Fuller, natural-looking brows give a more youthful appearance. If your brows are naturally thin, try using a brow pencil or powder to fill them in gently. 

The goal is to enhance your natural brow shape, not create a whole new one. If you’re not sure how to do this, many beauty stores offer brow services and can teach you techniques. Well-groomed, natural-looking brows can really brighten up your whole face.

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Floor-Sweeping Skirts: Hem It Up

Skirts that are too long can swamp your figure and make you look frumpy. The key is to find the right length for your height. For most people, a hem that hits just above the ankle or at mid-calf is flattering. 

If you love long skirts, make sure they’re hemmed to the right length so you’re not tripping over them. You could also try midi skirts, which hit mid-calf and are very fashionable right now. The right skirt length can make your legs look longer and your whole outfit more polished.

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Shapeless Tops: Show Your Silhouette

Tops without any shape can hide your figure and look frumpy. This doesn’t mean you need to wear tight clothes, but your tops should have some structure. Look for tops that gently follow your body’s lines. 

You could add a belt to create shape, or try tops with subtle darts or seams that add definition. Wrap tops are another great option that flatter many body types. Remember, clothes that fit well always look more stylish than baggy, shapeless pieces.

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Heavy Makeup: Light and Fresh

Wearing too much makeup can actually add years to your face. It can settle into fine lines and look cakey. Instead, try a lighter touch with your makeup. Use a light, dewy foundation or tinted moisturizer. 

Choose neutral eyeshadows and a light swipe of mascara. A touch of blush can give you a youthful glow. The goal is to enhance your natural beauty, not cover it up. 

If you’re not sure where to start, many makeup stores offer free tutorials and can help you find a fresh, age-appropriate look.

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Old-School Hairstyles: Update Your ‘Do

Hairstyles that were popular decades ago can really date your look. This includes things like teased-up styles or overly stiff updos. Talk to your stylist about modern cuts that suit your face shape and lifestyle. 

Soft, layered styles tend to be flattering and easy to maintain. If you color your hair, consider highlights or lowlights for a natural, dimensional look. Remember, your hairstyle frames your face, so finding the right one can take years off your appearance.

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Over-the-Top Nails: Keep It Classy

Super long nails or nails with lots of bling and designs can look dated. They can also make your hands look older. Opt for shorter nails with simple, elegant designs or classic colors. 

A short squoval (square-oval) shape in a neutral color like pale pink or beige always looks classy. If you want some fun, try a subtle glitter or a single accent nail. The goal is to have nails that enhance your hands, not overpower them.

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All-Black Everything: Add Some Color

Wearing all black all the time can look dull and aging. While black is classic, it can also be harsh, especially next to your face. Try adding some color to brighten up your look and your mood. This doesn’t mean you need to wear neon. 

Soft, muted colors like navy, burgundy, or forest green can add richness to your outfit without being too bold. Even a colorful scarf or piece of jewelry can make a big difference. Mixing in some color keeps your look fresh and vibrant.

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Wrap-Up: Your Style, Your Way

These tips aren’t strict rules, they’re simply ideas to help you feel your best. Fashion is about expressing yourself and having fun. As you try out these suggestions, pay attention to how you feel. 

It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing the latest trends or your comfy favorites, when you feel good, you look good. So experiment with these ideas, mix them with your personal flair, and create a style that’s uniquely you. 

Why not start small? Pick one tip that catches your eye and give it a try this week. Maybe swap out an old accessory for something new, or play with a different necklace. Small changes can make a big impact. 

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AI was used for light editing, formatting, and readability. But a human (me!) wrote and edited this.