If your wardrobe and beauty look haven’t evolved in decades, you might be unintentionally aging yourself. It’s easy to stick with what you know, but some of your go-to beauty and fashion habits might be keeping your look in the past. Avoid these outdated trends to keep you and your style current.
1. Cheap Chunky Necklaces
Outdated jewelry styles, like chunky necklaces or colored bangles, can instantly make your outfit look old-fashioned. Instead, go for minimalist pieces like fine gold necklaces, small hoops, or simple rings that keep your style polished and current.
2. Oversized Colored Eyewear
Eyewear can dramatically change your look. If you’re still rocking glasses you bought years ago, they could be dating your entire appearance. Outdated frames in retro shapes, tacky colors, or exaggerated sizes can drag down your look. Modernize your eyewear with slim, chic frames that flatter your face for a subtle, stylish update.
3. Long Shapeless Hairstyles
If your hair is long, overgrown, and has no shape or style, add some soft layers and go a little shorter to rejuvenate your appearance.Skipping regular hair trims can result in frizzy, split ends and an unkempt appearance. Keep your hair looking fresh and healthy with trims every 6-8 weeks. This simple act prevents breakage and keeps your hairstyle polished rather than overgrown.
4. Going Au Naturel Gray
If you’re letting your gray roots grow out unchecked, it may give off a neglected vibe. Embrace your gray if that’s your choice, but keep it looking intentional. Alternatively, regularly touch up your roots with plant-based dyes or tinted dry shampoos to keep your hair fresh and well-maintained.
5. Dull Makeup Shades and Textures
Heavy powder can settle into fine lines and give your skin a flat, matte look, emphasizing aging. Instead, opt for a light dusting of finely milled powder or skip it altogether for a more youthful, dewy finish. Use a setting spray or hydrating mist to keep your makeup looking fresh without needing layers of powder. Dull eyeshadow shades like brown and taupe are also aging and outdated.
6. Heavy Matte Foundation
Matte, full-coverage foundations can settle into wrinkles and highlight imperfections, making you appear older. Switch to a hydrating, satin-finish foundation that works with your skin, not against it. Lightweight formulas enhance a youthful glow and prevent caking around fine lines.
7. Orange and Blue Red Lipsticks
Heavy, dark lipstick shades like blue, red, plums, and oranges can bleed into fine lines around your mouth, drawing attention to signs of aging. Opt for hydrating, creamy lipsticks in neutral tones that keep your lips plump and fresh. Don’t forget to line your lips with a matching lip liner to prevent feathering.
8. Thin Overly Lined Brows
Thinning or overplucked brows can age your face. Keep them well-groomed, and consider filling them in with a brow pencil to create fullness and definition. A well-groomed brow can lift your face and give it a more youthful, refreshed look. Heavy or frosted eye makeup can also emphasize wrinkles or droopy lids. Opt for neutral, soft shades that highlight your eyes without drawing too much attention to any fine lines.
9. Gray Weathered Skin
Your skin may appear dull, dry, and aged if you’re not following a daily skincare routine. Keep your routine simple but effective: a good cleanser, anti-aging serum, moisturizer, and SPF are non-negotiable. Exfoliating regularly removes dead skin cells and helps reveal a fresh, youthful layer of skin. Skipping this step leads to a dull complexion, making you look older. Aim for a gentle exfoliant with enzymes or acids 2-3 times a week to keep your skin smooth and radiant.
10. Tacky Fanny Packs
Fanny packs can come off as more touristy than trendy. Ditch them for a sleek leather crossbody bag that carries all your essentials hands-free. A minimalist design will enhance your outfit and marry style with functionality.
11. Slouchy Oversized Bags
Slouchy, unstructured bags might be handy, but they can make you look sloppy. Ditch your big casual bags for a structured bag in a neutral color to elevate your look. A timeless leather handbag in a structured satchel or doctor bag will add a polished finish and work back with everything.
12. Child-Like Hair Accessories
Forget the playful bows, crunchies, and butterfly combs unless you’re in elementary school. If you are a fan of hair accessories, opt for sophisticated hair clips or elegant headbands to add a touch of glam to your look.
13. Shapeless Maxi Dresses
Their loose silhouettes and dated prints make prairie-style maxi dresses look frumpy and unflattering. Instead, choose more modern, sleek midi or maxi dresses that accentuate your figure. Or, if you do like a flowy dress, add a statement belt to keep it chic.
14. Platform Flip-Flops
Casual sandals and flip-flops may be comfy but lack style, especially in bright shades and platform heels. Keep your casual footwear chic; sleek slides, classic loafers, or ballet flats provide comfort and style.