Aging is a gift—and so is personal style. But let’s face it: some outfit choices can unintentionally age us. Whether it’s a dated silhouette or overly safe color palettes, the good news is that a few thoughtful tweaks can make all the difference. Here’s how to keep your style modern, flattering, and full of confidence—without chasing every trend. Here are 7 style mistakes that make you look older and who wants that?!
7 Style Mistakes that Make you Look Older: Wearing Dated Silhouettes
Mistake: Holding on to the same cuts and shapes from a decade ago can quietly date your entire look. This is definitely 1 of 7 style mistakes that make you look older.
Fix: Embrace modern tailoring with clean lines and updated proportions. Think: wide-leg trousers, cropped barrel jeans, or an oversized linen blazer that adds structure without stiffness. A few current silhouettes will breathe new life into your closet.
Playing It Too Safe with Neutrals
Mistake: Relying too heavily on safe colors like beige, black, and navy can wash you out—especially in warmer months.
Fix: Incorporate soft pastels and vibrant accents to add energy and dimension to your wardrobe. One of my favorite combos this season? A mint linen sweater paired with matching wide-leg pants from Banana Republic. It’s fresh, feminine, and incredibly chic. Or a beautiful pastel pink midi dress I wore to my daughter-in-law’s baby shower. It was a hit!
ICYMI: recent posts
Spring Dresses for Any Occasion: Petite & Regular
Weekend Getaway Capsule Wardrobe
Pastel Pink Midi Dress | Similar Patent Leather Sandals | Caviar Hoop Earrings | Similar Patchwork Handbag
Avoiding Denim—or Wearing the Wrong Kind
Mistake: Outdated denim styles or avoiding jeans altogether out of frustration.
Fix: Modern denim is all about flattering fits and intentional structure. Try Madewell’s barrel jeans or AGOLDE straight legs for an updated silhouette. Style them with a fitted tank or slouchy button-down for a look that feels effortless and elevated.
Being Overly Matchy-Matchy
Mistake: Over-coordinating everything from head to toe can feel stiff instead of stylish.
Fix: Aim for thoughtful contrast—pair a romantic sheer lace-trim blouse with a sequin-striped chiffon slip skirt, or balance a boxy blazer with slim trousers. Mixing textures and shapes brings dimension and visual interest to your outfit.
Denim Jacket | Cotton Sweater Shell | Cropped Linen Pants | Metallic Cork Sandals | Gold Belt | Gold Link Necklace | Hoop Earrings
Skipping Accessories
Mistake: Avoiding jewelry or accessories because they feel “fussy.”
Fix: Accessories are the finishing touch that tell your story. Whether it’s a silk scarf, bold sunglasses, or a standout belt, the right accessory elevates your basics. Don’t underestimate the power of statement earrings or a layered necklace to frame your face and add polish.
Choosing Comfort Over Style—At the Expense of Both
Mistake: Prioritizing comfort so much that it sacrifices structure, shape, and polish.
Fix: Look for elevated comfort pieces that feel as good as they look. Who says you have to sacrifice one for the other? These days, comfort is the new luxury—and luckily, brands like Varley and Spanx are delivering elevated essentials that feel as good as they look. From Spanx’s smoothing tech-fabric pants to Varley’s luxe loungewear with polished silhouettes, comfort has never looked chicer. Pair that with Frank & Eileen’s ultra-soft sweaters and perfectly broken-in denim, and you’ve got a uniform that works just as beautifully for errands as it does for brunch. It’s proof that you can lean into laid-back without looking like you’ve given up.
Letting Hair or Makeup Age You
Mistake: Sticking to the same hair or makeup routine from years past can subtly age your overall appearance.
Fix: A modern cut, glowing skin, and soft makeup can do wonders. Think creamy blush, lighter brows, and a hydrating lipstick in a fresh pink or coral. Consider this your reminder to refresh your beauty routine as your style evolves.
A few of my favorite products.
City Lips Plumping Gloss | Pat McGrath Lip Gloss (Divine Rose) | Luminous Silk Foundation | Nars Blush | Gimme Brow (Gray) | Revlon Eyeshadow | Two Faced Mascara
Closing Thoughts: Age with Intention—Not Insecurity
Fashion over 50 isn’t about rules—it’s about refinement. If you’ve fallen into one of these style ruts, don’t worry. A few smart swaps and updated staples can have you feeling confident, chic, and very much of the moment.
Looking for more style inspiration? Browse the latest outfit formulas, trend edits, and timeless pieces I’m wearing this season at LTK.
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