Exercise
Getting a daily workout in will keep your body healthier, your mind sharper, and your appearance youthful. Not to mention that proper exercise can help prepare your body for the natural changes that occur when aging. For example, focusing on balance via yoga can help make a fall in your older age much less dangerous.
According to a study done at Brigham Young University, people who work out regularly were significantly biologically younger than those who didn’t exercise as much. Well, it looks like it’s time to break out our running shoes!
Antioxidants
Eating antioxidants isn’t only good for your overall health and disease prevention, but it can benefit your appearance too. Antioxidants prevent and treat fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, and uneven skin tone, making for overall smoother skin.
You can get your antioxidants by eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It’s best to have these foods every day, if possible. Blueberries have been coined the ‘king of antioxidants,’ so if you’re a fan of these berries, feel free to stock up on them!
Don’t Use Products That Create Smoke
If you’re a fan of products that fill your lungs with smoke, we’re here to tell you that it’s time to quit. The harmful effects those products have on the body are endless! For the sake of this topic, we’ll focus on the effects these substances have on one’s appearance, but the harm to health shouldn’t be overlooked.
In terms of beauty, these products cause premature aging, wrinkles, stained teeth, and an odor that most people find unpleasant. So put down the lighter, it isn’t worth it.
Fermented Products
Consuming fermented foods can help with digestion and inflammation. Examples of such foods are yogurt, kefir, kimchi, miso, kombucha, and sauerkraut. Beauty products with fermented extracts in them are also a good idea, as they help with calming and brightening the skin.
Look for products with fermented ginkgo biloba nut or mushroom extract. According to dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a fermented beauty product “helps to keep the skin’s pH healthy and balanced, supports skin’s protective barrier, and alleviates irritation and dryness.”
Sleep
We all know that not getting enough sleep is bad for both our mental and physical health. But did you know that a poor sleep schedule can age your brain three to five years?! In terms of a youthful glow, people don’t call their rest ‘beauty sleep’ for nothing!
Getting at least seven to eight hours of shut-eye a night can dramatically decrease the signs of aging. Keep in mind that if you don’t currently feel at your healthiest size, sleeping more also helps with weight loss.
Healthy Fats
We tend to think of fatty foods as bad, but there’s such a thing as healthy fat. Eating foods that are high in healthy fats will increase the skin’s elasticity as well as make the skin appear more smooth and supple, creating a more youthful look.
Such foods also protect the heart, reducing the risk of clotting, high blood pressure, and deteriorating blood vessel function. Foods with healthy fats include avocado, fish, olive oil, seeds, nuts, beans, and eggs.
Relax
Stress can reduce the skin’s elasticity, resulting in dry, dull skin and wrinkles. It also contributes to unwanted weight gain and a whole host of health complications. Therefore, although it’s easier said than done, it’s important to try to live as calmly as possible.
Activities that can reduce stress include meditating, resting, taking a walk outside, yoga, and socializing. It’s also worth noting that pets, specifically dogs, are great at helping relieve stress, anxiety, and depression. This fun fact is a surefire way to convince anyone who’s hesitant about getting a pet to adopt a four-legged friend!
Reduce Your Salt Intake
We love Salt Bae’s style of cooking just as much as the next person, but the truth is that salt is pretty unhealthy. We know that salt causes bloating in our stomachs, but what many people aren’t aware of is that it has the same effect on the face.
Foods that are high in sodium can make your face appear puffy, especially under the eyes. The best way to wane yourself off salt is to replace it with sodium-free flavors, such as garlic, herbs, and lemon juice.
Drink Water
Drinking water will help with your health, weight control, and keeping your skin looking dewy and youthful. We’ve all heard the advice about having eight cups of water a day, but it turns out that’s pretty outdated.
According to Trent Nessler, the managing director of Baptist Sports Medicine in Nashville, “It depends on your size and weight, and also on your activity level and where you live. In general, you should try to drink between half an ounce and an ounce of water for each pound you weigh, every day.”
Stay Away From Adult Beverages
Even the best of us enjoy an adult beverage from time to time, but it’s best to moderate your intake of such drinks if you want to stay youthful. These drinks dehydrate you and, according to dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum, “dehydrated skin is more likely to appear dry, sallow, dull, and crepey.”
So, maybe try to tone things down on your next night out? If you’re not ready to give up your adult beverages just yet, make sure you drink extra water while enjoying your other drinks.
Handle Your Hands
Our hands tend to be the first things to age, but we can avoid rapidly maturing hands by taking extra care of them. Use hand cream, make sure not to forget your hands when applying sunscreen, and wear gloves for tasks that may be tough on your skin (for example, washing dishes).
It’s also a good idea to get manicures from time to time, as the procedure will exfoliate your hands and strengthen your nails.
See a Dermatologist
People often think that they don’t need a dermatologist if they’re not interested in invasive cosmetic procedures. However, a good dermatologist should be able to provide you with a personalized skincare routine that doesn’t necessarily involve any expensive or dramatic treatments.
For example, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger topical creams than you can get in the cosmetic aisle of a pharmacy. Of course, a medical professional can also spot signs of health problems on your skin that you may not even be aware of.
Wear Sunscreen
We all know about the importance of sunscreen, but, unfortunately, many people still tend to underuse this essential product. The truth is that you should be applying SPF of at least 30 on all areas that your clothes don’t cover. We suggest wearing sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather, and certainly not just at the beach.
The sun’s UV rays can penetrate through clouds, causing potential harm to your skin, as well as creating wrinkles. So, whether you can see the sun or not, throw on some sunscreen anyway!
Moisturize
You probably know how important moisturizing is, but do you know the right way to go about it? According to dermatologist Dr. Craig Kraffert, it’s best to apply your creams within three minutes of washing your face or body — before you dry off.
“All those pricey anti-aging products you’ve invested in will work more effectively if you use them on clean, moist skin. Not only will you get the benefits of the moisturizer itself, but you’ll help seal in the hydration from the water.”
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is beneficial in both food and topical creams. Dermatologists disagree as to whether or not eating Vitamin C is helpful for maintaining youthful skin, but it’s definitely good for your body’s overall health. It can be found in foods such as kale, peppers, and citrus.
That being said, pretty much all the experts agree that topical Vitamin C helps in warding off wrinkles, dark spots, and sun damage. We’d air on the side of caution and take both types of Vitamin C!
Teeth Whitening
A tell-tale sign of maturing is the deterioration of the teeth. So, keeping your pearly whites, well, pearly and white, is essential to looking youthful. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and avoid drinks that stain the teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red adult beverages.
Quitting the usage of products that fill your lungs with smoke can also improve your smile. If you’re past the point of prevention, you can always brighten your chompers using whitening toothpaste and whitening strips — consult your dentist for the best option for you.
Watch Your Posture
Our bodies become used to certain motions and postures that we repeat on a regular basis. Unfortunately, that means that if we’re continuously using a posture that creates wrinkles or fine lines, it’ll quickly become a habit.
One example that we’re probably all guilty of is looking down at our phones. Instead, try holding your device at eye level while sending a text. Implement little tricks like that throughout your day to ensure that your whole body, but especially your face, is upright and tight.
Let Your Hair Air Dry
While it’s easy to focus solely on our face and body to maintain a youthful appearance, our hair has a big effect on how old we look as well. As we age, our hair can become damaged more easily, losing its volume and shine.
A great way to prevent this is to be kind to your hair and let up on the heat styling tools. Really, you should be using heating tools on your hair no more than once a week. Trust us, your tresses will thank you!
Liquid Concealer
If you find that your skin has acquired some wrinkles, it’s best to switch to liquid concealer rather than powdered foundation. Powdered foundations tend to settle into fine lines, making them more noticeable. Liquid foundation, on the other hand, blends much more easily, hiding wrinkles.
The hydrating properties in liquid makeup will also benefit your skin much more than a powder. Fun fact, liquids and creams last on the skin longer anyway, so there’ll be less need for touch-ups!
Stick to Warm Foundation Colors
As we get older, our skin naturally gets a bit paler, so using a warmer-colored foundation can help keep you looking young and glowing. Makeup artist Sandy Linter explains, “Even if you have ivory skin, you need to go a little bit warmer as you get older.”
Her fellow makeup artist Chrisanne Davis added that it’s best to stay away from matte foundations as well as cooler tones. “A light-reflective formula makes the skin look like it’s glowing.”
Change Up Your Haircut
There’s a reason that women tend to change their hairstyle as they get older; certain haircuts hide the signs of maturing really well, creating a more youthful appearance. Bangs and soft layers cover wrinkles along your eyes and forehead.
If you feel that you’re lacking elasticity in the upper part of your face, pull your hair back tight for a completely natural facelift. For women who are self-conscious about the lower part of their face, use long layers to hide your jawline.
Lighten Your Hair Color
We all know to cover our grays if we want to appear younger. However, not everyone knows the best way to go about that. If you dye your hair a dark color, you’ll have to re-dye it often as the grey hairs will keep popping up.
If you opt for a lighter hue, though, the grays will blend in and look more like highlights than actual gray hairs. Furthermore, dark hair tends to accentuate fine lines and wrinkles. Rather than a sultry brunette, try out being a blonde bombshell instead!
Upgrade Your Wardrobe
This is a tricky one, as you want to dress age-appropriately, but you also don’t want to look worn out. A good trick is to find stylish clothes that’ll hide body parts that show signs of aging.
For example, a scarf can cover a sagging neck, while a sweater can hide jiggly arms. Jewelry can serve as a way to catch the eye without drawing attention to wrinkles. At the end of the day, though, these tips only work if you feel confident in that clothing.
Use the Right Makeup Brush
A lot of women try to massage or rub concealer into their under-eye area in an attempt to cover up dark circles and crow’s feet. However, this method will only stretch the skin around the eyes, accentuating the signs of aging.
Instead, use a small, flat makeup brush on the eye area. Keep in mind that the skin around the eyes is about ten times thinner than the skin on the rest of your face, so be very gentle with it.
Hats
We already know that we don’t want too much sun exposure, so a stylish hat can be a great way to enjoy a day in the sun without inviting too many UV rays. If hats aren’t your thing, you can always use a bandana or carry an umbrella around.
Of course, the bigger your hat is, the more protection it’ll offer, but you want to go for at least a three-inch brim. Not only will a hat keep your face wrinkle-free, but it’ll also prevent heatstroke!
Avoid Toxins
There are a lot of toxins in the environment, and we can’t really avoid all of them, but we can take precautions to make sure we’re affected by these toxins as minimally as possible.
Drive with the windows up when in heavy traffic. Avoid hanging around people who are using products that fill their lungs with smoke. At the end of the day, make sure to exfoliate and wash off all the toxins you’ve encountered in your environment.
Shake Your Sugar Habit
We’re not saying to never enjoy a piece of birthday cake or a donut, but we are saying that an excess amount of sugar can age you prematurely.
Dr. Ajay Kumar Ajmani explains, “High sugars lead to an increase in the Glycation of proteins leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products, which can cause functional and structural damage to them, resulting in fast aging.” It’s worth noting that natural sugars, such as fruits, are fine — it’s processed sugar that’s the problem.
Cut Down on Caffeine
If you’re a coffee or tea lover, it may be time to switch to a decaf option. Caffeine messes with our blood vessels’ ability to produce collagen and deliver antioxidants and nutrients to the skin.
As a result, too much caffeine can cause the skin to wrinkle and sag. Don’t worry, though, we’re not saying, “never have a cup of joe!” We’re just suggesting you perhaps limit yourself to one or two cups a day if you want to stay truly vibrant.
Facials
There’s no need for invasive or dangerous procedures if you want to look youthful. Instead, just head over to a spa and get a facial! Regular facials can keep your skin looking fresh, smooth, and young without any of the risks bigger procedures have.
One type of spa treatment that can help your skin is derma planning, which is an exfoliating facial. There’s also micro-needling, which stimulates collagen. A CO2 lift is basically a face mask times 10. Lastly, you can try a VI peel, also known as a chemical peel.
Blend Your Makeup
Blending your makeup is always important, but even more so when you’ve got wrinkles or fine lines that you’re trying to smooth out. One trick to blending is making sure your skin is well-moisturized before applying your makeup.
If you’re worried about looking too shiny, simply go for an oil-free moisturizer before starting your makeup routine. When blending, make sure to use gentle dabbing motions and upward strokes that follow the natural contours of the face.
Catch Some Sun
Okay, we know we’ve emphasized the importance of protecting yourself from the sun, but it’s also necessary to get some sunlight if you want to look younger.
Vitamin D keeps our bones, skin, and hair healthy, so while you don’t want to overdo it, you do want to make sure you’re not living like a vampire. Ideally, you should be aiming for 30 minutes of sunlight a day, while wearing sunscreen and protecting your head, of course.
Grow Out Your Eyebrows
Remember when Cara Delevingne became famous and, suddenly, everyone was growing out their eyebrows? As it turns out, the bushy eyebrow beauty trend is backed by science! Our hair tends to thin as we age, including our eyebrow hairs, so full eyebrows are psychologically associated with youth.
For a younger look, let your eyebrows grow out a bit, and when you do shape them, don’t create a harsh arch. Given how painful and time-consuming tweezing can be, we’re gonna take this as a win!
Mascara
You may not have thought twice about skipping mascara when you were young, but as we age, this beauty product becomes more and more crucial. Mascara, eyelash curlers, and fake lashes can all come in handy if you want your eyes to look large and bright.
Long, luscious eyelashes make people look energized and awake, two things that are most certainly equated with youth. And, of course, wide eyes are associated with youthfulness due to the fact that children are known to have large eyes.
Collagen
Collagen is what strengthens, hydrates, and gives our skin elasticity. Our bodies naturally produce less collagen as we age, resulting in dryer skin that can become wrinkled. While collagen supplements are always an option, there are a lot of foods that help the body produce more collagen as well.
Such foods include berries, garlic, chicken, fish, bone broth, egg whites, and many citrus and tropical fruits. Sleep, healthy eating, exercise, and steam bath therapy can also boost collagen production.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is beneficial both as a topical cream and ingested via food. Consuming this vitamin boosts collagen production, enhances the immune system, improves the skin and softens wrinkles, and prevents age-related macular degeneration (blurred vision).
Overall, Vitamin A slows down the body’s maturing, both inside and out. Vitamin A can be found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and mangos. Using topical creams with Vitamin A in them will treat acne, splotchy skin, fine lines, and rough skin. You can use creams, serums, or oils to get this vitamin’s benefits.
Cover Crow’s Feet
Crow’s feet are the wrinkles that appear first, for most people, giving away their age. While many believe that crow’s feet are cute, and we’re inclined to agree, they can be a source of insecurity for a lot of women.
If you do want to cover up these wrinkles, make sure you’ve got the right technique. If not, you can make them even more noticeable. Prime the skin with some form of moisturizer, apply liquid concealer in an upward, circular motion, and (if you want) finish with a setting spray.
Try New Things
There’s a reason that certain people seem to age overnight — it’s because they’ve stopped living a physically and mentally active lifestyle. Trying new things will keep your brain sharp, and your body will follow suit.
Research shows that people who feel younger actually do look younger, so make sure that you’re not giving up on yourself. Take up a new hobby, join a class, travel the world, and do whatever it takes to keep your mind and body working!
Vitamin E
Vitamin E prevents signs of maturing, such as age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. It also helps the skin keep that youthful glow by stimulating blood flow and collagen production. Vitamin E can even help with hair growth and shine!
This vitamin can be found in nuts, seeds, vegetable oil, and avocado. Like so many other nutrients, you can find Vitamin E in topical creams, oils, and serums. On that note, many people believe topical Vitamin E can help with stretch marks and scarring, although that’s yet to be scientifically proven.
Wash Your Face
Washing your face twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, is the absolute minimum. If you sweat a lot, it’s best to cleanse even more often (always blot sweat, rather than wipe).
Make sure you’re completely removing your makeup at the end of each day, too, so it doesn’t clog your pores. While rinsing your face isn’t that exciting of a tip, it’s one of the most important ones. Some experts even say that neglecting to cleanse your face can age your skin by three months!
Check Your Facial Expressions
We’re not suggesting that you act like a robot and stare blankly at things throughout the day. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that overexaggerated facial expressions can cause wrinkles.
If you notice you’re squinting at your laptop, maybe try computer glasses. If you’re someone who scowls a lot, perhaps soften your face a bit. Again, feel free to express yourself, but maybe aim for laugh lines rather than a furrowed brow.
Nude Lipstick
Bright red lips may have been your signature look in your 20s, but as you age, nude lipstick becomes the better option. Chanel Meekins, the co-founder of Pierre Michel Beauty, explains, “Nudes, light pinks, and corals are all great choices.”
“The reason these shades are ideal for looking younger is that they give the appearance of fuller lips. […] One thing to keep in mind as you shop for a new lipstick is that the darker the shade, then the thinner your lips will look.”
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, otherwise known as the Sunshine Vitamin, helps with fine lines, wrinkles, and acne. It also does a lot for the body in terms of preventing age-related diseases. A great way to get some Vitamin D in your food is to eat eggs, fish, mushrooms, beef liver, and orange juice, as well as dairy products fortified with Vitamin D.
The Sunshine Vitamin can also be applied topically via creams, which is particularly helpful in fighting psoriasis (a condition that causes flaky/scaly skin).
Face Yoga
Some people swear by face yoga, while others insist that it doesn’t do anything. We see it this way: there are many potential benefits and no risks involved, so why not try it?
The idea behind its effectiveness is that we work the muscles in our body to keep them fit and tight, so why wouldn’t we do the same with the muscles in our faces? There are lots of face yoga apps, workshops, and YouTube channels if you do choose to give this exercise a try.
Exfoliate
It’s important to find the Goldilocks zone of exfoliating. You definitely want to make sure it’s a part of your skincare routine. However, it’s important not to overdo it. Exfoliating removes dead skin to reveal a smoother and more youthful complexion underneath, so it’s certainly worth adding to your regimen.
However, over-exfoliation can be counterproductive as it irritates the skin. A telltale sign that you’re overdoing it is if your face stings when you wash it or apply your other products. It’s all about finding that happy medium!
Be Confident
Remember that confidence is beautiful, so own your age — whatever it may be! Growing older is an honor that, unfortunately, not everybody gets to have. So, rather than feel bad when you notice a new wrinkle or see a gray hair coming in, recognize that you get the privilege of reaching a mature age.
So, love every laugh line, and smile at every bit of sagged skin, it just shows that you’re having experiences and embracing life — which means you’re doing it right!
Outdated Fashion Mistakes That Older Women Should Stop Making
Trends come and go. Fashion magazines everywhere steer the industry into retro phases all the time. But, even if they do, that doesn’t mean that these retro phases won’t make some look a little older than they are.
Big Hair Don’t Care
You want a flattering hairdo that has plenty of volume. But, just like with everything in life, too much of a good thing — like volume — can be bad. There is a line and once you cross it, you don’t just get height, but you’re also making people think you’re older than you are.
Matchy Matchy
So, let’s talk lipstick. You want your lipstick to coordinate with your outfit and color scheme. That’s just a rule when it comes to creating a cohesive look. But, that does not mean it needs to match the colors exactly.
For instance, this shade of lipstick is too close to the top’s color, which turns a chic and fun look into something that could only be defined as a “mom-look.” That trend is long gone and should stay gone. Instead, try a few shades lighter or even a neutral that will go with the outfit.
Rapunzel, Let Down Your Hair
Remember back in the day (like the ’60s) when super long hair was all the rage. Some women still hold on to that using hair to hide anything they deem as a flaw. But unfortunately, there is such a thing as too long, and the longer your hair gets, the older you may begin to look.
Most stylists suggest a more mature woman not go any longer than the waist. As the longer the hair, the less volume you have due to the weight.
They Are Not Jeans
Jeggings! We all love them, right? They are comfortable and look good with a wide range of things. After all, they are leggings that look like jeans, right! All of that is true but what many people fail to realize is that they are not jeans.
Jeggings are in no way a substitute for a well-fitting pair of jeans. They are often thin and therefore show way more lumps and cellulite than most of us would like. This means that they naturally make one look and sometimes feel older.
Isn’t That Heavy
So, there’s a difference between a statement piece, costume jewelry, and what we would call gaudy jewelry. Sometimes people mistake statement pieces for the last option, which can help make the outfit look ill-put together, and the wearer looks a little older.
You can still have a statement piece or even wear costume jewelry just to make them a little more subtle. Simple is better and will take away less attention from that killer outfit!
A Little Color?
So, we all want that sun-kissed glow that comes with a good tan. Some of us, for personal reasons or because of where we live, have trouble getting one. That’s why fake tans were invented, right? Well, yes and no!
They could potentially permanently dye your skin after excessive use. Along with that, the color isn’t exactly natural so maybe use the tanner a little less if you want a nice skin tone.
Just a Little Shape
In the early part of the 2000s, it was all the rage to have thin well-sculpted eyebrows. The overplucked eyebrows went the way of the dodo, and we should all be thankful because they really do nothing for anyone’s look.
So, those that still insist on holding onto the trend are showing their age — and aging themselves prematurely. Instead, rock a fuller brow or even a thick brow. Find the style that fits your face and go with that.
T-Shirt From Here to There
During the heat of the summer, everyone wants to be comfortable and cool. What better way than to have a dress that’s light and breathable like a t-shirt? Makes sense, but the idea of a jersey dress is a little dated.
The fabric tends to be pretty clingy, and because of its lightweight nature, it tends to look a little cheap. The fact the fabric clings means it wrinkles and bunches around every imperfection you may have.
Pastel Ya!
Pastels are on-trend, and so many people are rocking the monochromatic look. However, this look may not be suitable for older women because, as you age, your skin begins to lose tone. That means lighter colors can often wash you out and show your age more.
This means that a monochromatic look is out for you, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear pastels. You just have to pair it with a darker pair of jeans or some piece of clothing that contrasts the lightness.
Touching the Ground
Maxi skirts are also a piece of clothing women who are maturing need to be careful wearing. These skirts tend to be loose fitting and where that might be nice to hide your legs, they don’t always flatter the waistline.
If you want to sport a maxi skirt, make sure you pair it with the right top. This means if it is one that’s more tailored, try a looser top or vice versa.
Cakin’ it On
Our skin is beaten up a lot through our years. The sun damages it, and then there are the environmental impacts added to that. These all create wrinkles and imperfections that may cause some ladies to want to cover them up. This often means caking on the makeup, which only makes matters worse.
The more layers of makeup you slap on, the older you will look. Instead, try to use lighter formulas that are designed to do multiple jobs like tinted moisturizers. Then light powder, and you will have a fresher faced look.
Show Some Neck!
Women are very self-conscious about what they deem is imperfect. That may mean they feel the urge to pile on the makeup or even raise the hemline of clothing they choose. One of the areas a lot of women get self-conscious about as they age is the neck.
The loss of elasticity in the skin may have you looking at that rack of turtlenecks. Don’t do it! Sometimes trying to hide something will draw more attention to that area.
If It’s Not Broke
Another thing that could cause you to look older than you are is getting stuck in a rut. We all have done this and found a hairstyle that flatters our face and makes us feel good, but that could be a problem.
Like everything else, a hairstyle comes and goes into fashion, so you may be dating yourself by sticking to your do. One way to determine if you are doing this is to look at a picture from more than five years ago. If you still have the same cut, you should switch it up.
Goth Lips
As fall and winter come around, there will definitely be more dark lips being worn out and about. That’s perfectly on-trend, but it may not be advisable for certain older women. Age effects not only or skin but also our lips. They tend to get paler like the skin and become thinner.
The dark shades that come with autumn and winter will accentuate these aspects more. Dark colors also tend to dry the lips out — and even may highlight the lips’ wrinkles and crevices.
It Needs to Go Together
Just because it comes in a set doesn’t mean you have to wear it as one. This is true in everything having to do with fashion, especially jewelry. The best rule of thumb and one many fashionistas live by is if you wear the necklace, then don’t wear the earrings and vice versa.
Too much matching jewelry can create a heavy look and add years to your appearance. Plus, by breaking up the band — so to speak — you get more options, and it won’t look like you are trying too hard.
Is That My Grandma’s Couch?
Floral prints have their place. In the spring season, they are a nice light way to show that spring has sprung. Not for an everyday errand kind of day, as an all-over floral print can send the message to people that you are older than you want them to think you are.
If you do want to wear a floral print anything, you will have to be very selective. Try to stay away from large floral prints. Instead, go for smaller prints.
Underwear
Wearing your underwear so people can see it or even poorly fitted underwear should never be a thing. Nowadays, there are plenty of brands and styles that can help you make sure neither of those two things occurs.
Of the two, the ill-fitting underwear may be the biggest culprit of premature fashion aging. If your underwear doesn’t fit right, they can cause unwanted lines to show through. This can ruin your ensemble so quickly.
Right to Bare Arms
Just like the neck, a woman’s arm becomes a place of self-consciousness as they age. Your skin loses elasticity and begins to sag, and that may make you reach for that long sleeve to hide them.
This is natural, but like covering your neck, opting for a long sleeve may draw more attention to the area than you actually wanted. Plus, this often leads to sweating, and that can attract even more attention.
Sheer Panic
We know that to have some of those classic nylon stockings on, it was the right thing to do when you left the house with a skirt on. But those days are gone, and it’s perfectly acceptable to leave the house with your legs uncovered.
Since the style is now super outdated, you may be aging yourself if you still do this. So — make sure you shave, lotion the legs, and try to go out without those stockings.
Rockstars Do It
We can’t all rock eyeliner like Johnny Depp, nor should we try. Plastering on the dark makeup can make one look older. Why? The biggest reason is that it’s heavy and can weigh your look down. This, in turn, adds years onto your face.
Plus, this makeup has a tendency to smudge as you go through your day (even if it says it doesn’t). This smudging could add more to any bags or dark circles under your eyes, and also years.
Let’s Brooch the Subject
Okay, so there’s a difference between classic and antiquated. For example, a brooch — this is antiquated and not classic. Pearls are classic (with the right outfit). Yes, it used to be all the rage to draw attention with a stylish and attention-grabbing brooch but not anymore.
This fad is long gone, although at one point, it was actually hip to add a brooch to your ensemble. Today, though, it’ll easily show your age and even add some years onto it. So, save those brooches. Who knows, maybe they will make a comeback…
No, Capri Is an Island
It seems that as we age, we get less comfortable letting our legs be out and about. That means shorts become something we like to stay away from. But, we still want shorter pants that are lightweight especially during the summer months — enter capri pants.
The problem with capris is where the hem lands. They often stop mid-calf and that can be very unflattering no matter what age you are. This can make the legs look thicker. So, if you are looking for shorter pants, try ankle pants or even culottes.
Jeans Are for the Kids
Sometimes we get crazy ideas in our head as we begin to mature. One of these is that jeans are a young person’s game. A good fitting pair of jeans is maybe one of the greatest pleasures in the world, and it’s not just for the youngsters.
In fact, there should be at least one pair of perfectly fitting jeans in everyone’s wardrobe. So — find your silhouette, get out there, and buy a pair of those jeans you’ve been dying for. A wardrobe without them will make you seem old.
Color Pallets Matter
There are more color options every year. With that, there are some really beautiful colors that catch our eye. However, just because we like them doesn’t mean that they will play nice with our skin tone or coloring.
Wearing the wrong tone can actually give you a sickly pallor or wash you out. If you have a warm skin tone, you will have an easier time pulling off warmer tones. For people with cooler complexions, cooler tones are the way to go!
Tweed it Away
Tweed goes through its phases of being in trend. Even when it is, it’s not a fabric that people who are seeking to look younger should wear. This is simply because it is a fabric that’s known for being worn by older individuals.
If you are trying to adopt the menswear look, you should instead look at more flattering options. A nice windowpane or pinstripe suit is a good option to play with. It’ll look better and probably feel better, too.
Is it Hot in Here?
When you are finishing out your makeup look, you might want to go for a little touch of rosy hue on your cheeks. This is perfectly fine, but it results in a poorly put-together look and may add some years to your look when you overdo it.
When applying blush, be sure to make it look subtle. You should just be able to see a little color, and that’s it. Too much blush can not only make you look older but it can also make it look like you have some sort of skin condition.
I See!
One accessory that many people overlook that can add some years to an individual is their eyewear. Not so much sunglasses, although they can be a telltale sign of when you grew up if you’re not careful — but definitely your everyday eyewear.
When we find a pair of glasses that look good on our faces, we tend to hold on for dear life. However, wearing a set that’s out of date can be detrimental to our look. So, update your eyewear as often as you can.
Let Me Wear Your Sweater
So, this one may seem a little controversial and it could depend on how you put the outfit together, but cardigans do seem to be associated with older individuals. There are a lot of reasons that this is true.
The fabrics and silhouettes used in the design of most cardigans are not so flattering. They tend to be boxy, and that makes them a no-no for a tailored look. Instead of using these, try a jacket or even a blazer.
Tying Up Loose Ends
When the colder months come around, it’s inevitable that some people will reach for the decorative scarf to tie an outfit together. Though this is not necessarily untrendy, it may be a wrong choice for some.
This is because some of us are trying to hide our necks, but doing so can draw attention straight to that area — not to mention that when you look more conservative in your dress, you tend to look a little older, too.
No Belt, No Service
For the most part, wearing more tailored or body-appropriate clothes will make you look slimmer and younger. But, there are some styles that offer a more boxy fit, which can be bad.
When it comes to sheath dresses or even boxy tunics, they don’t do anything for the figure. This is why you often see women belting them. This defines the waist and may just be the perfect accessory to make you look — and feel — a little younger.
Elvira Called
Remember when you were first told that black is so flattering. This is true, and there is nothing wrong with the occasional homage to the darker side of your personality. A black outfit can look classy and put together.
However, wearing all black every day from head to toe can make you look older. If you want to do an all-black outfit, try playing with textures or adding some jewelry for a pop of color.
Linebacker Style
The ’80s were known for a few things — big hair, neon colors, and shoulder pads. None of these are quite as out of fashion as the shoulder pads. So, unless you are having an ’80s day at work, stay away from these.
These give your silhouette a box shape and give you a dated look, making you look older. There are more structured and tailored shoulder pad options if you have to have them, so invest in these if this is the case.
What About the Highlights?
Remember when chunky highlights were in? Of course you do, and because you do, you have to know that the look is way past its prime. This means sporting this kind of hairstyle is like wearing the same haircut for decades — bad.
You can still use highlights but try styles like balayage or others that are individualized and styled for your look. These types of highlights will look more natural without adding years to your overall appearance.
Wearing Sentimental Items
One distraction from ensuring that you look your age is carrying on wearing those items of clothing or accessories that have sentimental value. It might be a gift from someone your love or maybe it once belonged to a lost loved one.
Ultimately though, you aren’t doing yourself any favors. Your best bet is to resize the item, store it away somewhere or maybe even donate it. Who knows, maybe that item you’re hanging onto will come back into style at some point.
You Didn’t Show Off Your Figure
We have already established in this article that the older we get, the more we feel a need to wear looser clothes. But many of us adhere to this rule anyway when we are still young. Oversized, bulky outfits are a one-way trip to looking older than you are.
Blouses, sweaters, long skirts and trousers simply aren’t the way to go, unless you are cold. On the flip side, older individuals shouldn’t feel like they always have to hide their figures.
You Wear Chunky Shoes
Sure, boots and chunky heels come into fashion every once in a while, but generally, it’s impossible to deny that many versions do look kind of weird. They just make your feet look bigger than the rest of your body.
Your best bet is to go for something a bit more understated, like strap flats or kitten heels. The smaller the footwear, the more petite you will appear to be. Moreover, it’s been about 30 years since chunky sneakers were the way to go.
Carrying Old-Fashioned Hangbags
Sure, the Queen rocks this classic handbag look in virtually every public appearance she makes. But let’s face it, not everyone is the Queen now, are they? Louis Vuitton purses were once all the rage, not anymore though.
With so many different styles and colors to choose from, we would recommend going with small clutches or purses at this moment in time – that’s what is in right now. Another couple of options worth checking include studded backpacks or leather totes.
Tying Jackets Around Our Waists
Sure, this is a trend that seems to be in right now. Wearing your flannel or jacket around your waist is a good practical idea. You never know if you are going to need it or not. However, it doesn’t look particularly flattering on whoever’s wearing it.
Let’s face it – this is only going to make our hips look bigger than they are. Instead, one should consider draping it over one’s shoulders. Or why not try fitting it in your purse?
Too Many Floral Designs
There is no denying that floral design dresses are a nice thing to put on every once in a while. However, if you are spotted too often in this kind of dress, people might start to mistake you for being older than you actually are.
Sure, the odd floral design can go down a treat during those scenic summer walks and picnics. But you don’t want to feel like that’s all you have in the closet.
Never Wearing Heels
So many of us despise wearing heels – primarily because they can be incredibly uncomfortable to wear. However, the social norm is to wear them more often than not. And if you want to look your age, you might have to make that sacrifice every once in a while.
Kitten heels are OK to try here and there and booties will provide you with heels while maximizing comfort. So there are ways to deal with this issue.
Logo Clothes
You would assume that the more big brand logos that can be seen on your clothes, the more fashionable you come across as. However, you couldn’t be further from the truth. It doesn’t matter how old or young you are – it just looks tacky at the end of the day.
Sure, you might be able to get away with it when you are a teenager. But once you hit 21, you should be expected to tone things down in the logo department.
Same-Fit Pairings
The following rule is ignored by more people than you would expect. Basically, when you decide to pair tops and bottoms, you need to make sure you do the following: if your bottoms are loose, the top should be tighter and vice versa.
If you don’t end up following this rule, then you could potentially come across as lazy or sloppy. If you do follow the rule, you will be looked at as an organized, stylish individual.
Be Careful of Wearing Mini-Everything
We can be tempted to slip into smaller clothes in order to accentuate our figure and look the part during a night out on the town. But the older you get, the question of “how short is too short” becomes more and more pressing. “Mini” anything needs to be carefully considered before actually worn.
Female empowerment means different things for different people, but when it concerns how old you want to look, it might be best to go a bit too conservative as opposed to the opposite.
Non-Tailor Made
Having a nice suit is an essential addition to any wardrobe. It can be a chic choice for interviews or business functions or even important family events. But, that’s only if it’s the right color and silhouette for your body.
A poorly-tailored suit can make you look sloppy and even hide some of your figure — all of which may make you seem a little older than your license says you are.
Can You Turn Your Nails Down?
It’s tempting to go for fun colors at the nail salon when getting your nails done. But, if you are an older woman, you may want to stay away from the exceptionally bright colors or ones that have sparkle.
This will draw attention to your hands — one of the places that reveal your age more than other parts of your body. By donning the bright color, you may just be saying, look at my hands. Now ask me how old I am?
Strut On
So, let us preface this by saying if you wear this style of heel because you can’t walk in anything taller than this, then, by all means, go with it. Just dress it up with some more stylish outfits.
That being said, the kitten heel is way past its expiration date. If you have a problem walking in heels as we mentioned above, you could always go with a more wedgy heel instead of kitten heels. This may help move your outfit into the trendy column.
Eyeshadow Blues
Not all blue eyeshadow is terrible, but some shades could help in aging your face a little. The worst is the lighter blues. The hue of the shadow you choose can affect your overall look more than you know.
In fact, many makeup experts suggest that if you want to do a colored eye shadow, go for a darker, less pigmented color. This will keep it from making you look older.
Something Is Off
You may have put together a killer outfit that makes you look and feel young. However, if you don’t put that face together, all your hard work might go down the drain. One of the big mistakes is choosing the wrong foundation.
The wrong shade can either make you look weirdly tan or like you’ve just seen a ghost. So, choosing the right shade is crucial. The best way to do this is to use the back of your hand and see if you get a close enough match.
We all want to look youthful and vibrant, regardless of how old we actually are, and the trick is to make the necessary lifestyle changes as early as possible. Prevention is easier to manage than correction, so it’s best to start thinking about the “future you” now. Whether you’re in your 20s or 40s, or already a beautiful 60-year-old, these tips and tricks will help you look like you’re aging backward!