Dressing tips to help women avoid the aging trap

As you get older, it can be hard to keep up with changing fashion trends while still dressing age-appropriately. What once worked can suddenly seem out of place—and navigating that change isn't always easy. In fact, many women fall into common, and potentially unflattering, style pitfalls. This guide will help you spot and avoid those fashion pitfalls, so you can feel confident, fashionable, and totally yourself at any age.

Replace chunky earrings with a more delicate design

Heavy, oversized earrings can pull on your earlobes and accentuate sagging over time, especially if they're made from older materials. While bold jewelry may have once been your signature look, it can now draw attention to areas you'd like to soften.

Today's lightweight earrings come in all sorts of beautiful, modern designs. Whether you prefer delicate studs or elegant hoops, you can express your style—without weighing yourself down.

Choose flattering over loose

Baggy or shapeless clothes may seem like a safe bet for comfort, but they often hide your shape and add unnecessary bulk. While the intention may be to hide certain parts, the result can unintentionally make you appear less confident in your body.

Structured pieces, like tailored jackets or fitted dresses, flatter your natural curves in the most flattering way. They help you feel pampered while still allowing you room to move comfortably and confidently.

Choose a lighter makeup look

Heavy makeup may seem like a way to cover up wrinkles or age spots. But in reality, heavy foundation, dark eye shadow, and bright blush can ruin your natural beauty by sitting on wrinkles or looking too harsh.

A light, fresh, lightweight foundation will go a long way. Creamy, neutral-toned products and subtle contours can brighten the face, accentuate features and give you a healthy, radiant complexion.

Brighten up your outfit with a pop of color

Wearing all black can create a classic and slimming feel, but too much black can actually wash out your skin tone and make your facial features look more serious. A monochrome black look has the potential to highlight dull skin and signs of fatigue.

Try incorporating colors that warm up your skin tone and bring life to your look. Even a colorful scarf, a patterned top, or a jewel-toned accessory can make a striking difference.

Don't let the pastels dull you.

Pastel colors can look soft and pretty, but worn head to toe, they can take away from a fair complexion.

The key is balance. Pair bright tones with bold tones to ground your outfit and create contrast, or tone down the cool tones of pastels with pale neutrals. A pastel pink top with beige pants or a lilac blouse under a navy blazer would work well.

Choose simple, elegant clothing instead of revealing styles.

Fashion items like crop tops and short shorts can feel playful, but they often reveal more of your body than you'd like and don't fit your personal style as you get older.

Instead, opt for stylish pieces that offer coverage, style, and UV protection without sacrificing your sense of fun. Think slim-fit jeans, stylish tunics, or midi dresses that are both modern and comfortable.

Choose shoes that combine comfort and fashion

Older shoes, like orthotics or outdated loafers, may support your feet, but they can quickly drag down the rest of your outfit. They convey a message of practicality rather than personality.

Luckily, there are stylish options that don't sacrifice comfort. From cushioned loafers to sleek walking shoes, you can be comfortable on your feet while still looking polished.

Put away your cardigans and wear something more trendy.

Items like long cardigans, boxy silhouettes, tweed dresses, and vintage prints can quickly become 'granny style'—but not in a trendy way. These items, while cozy, can age you more than you realize and create a silhouette that doesn't reflect your energy or confidence.

Micah Soto

Update 26 May 2025