Q&A: How to Dress to Look Older
October 21st, 2008
Q: I’m 22 years old and only 5 feet tall. I also have a very young looking face, so whenever I go out, people ask me how old I am. It’s an odd request, but how can I dress to look older when I go out without trying too hard?
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by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: It’s an odd request, but it’s a valid one. Looking more mature will not only reduce the "how old are you?" questioning, but it’ll also help you to be taken more seriously at work. We have a few quick tricks to add age to your look:
Balance out your Round Face: I’m guessing that the youthfulness in your face comes from a round shape; the rounder your face, the younger your look. To counterbalance the roundness, look for geometric shaped earrings, pointed collars, and more angular clothing.
Wear Structured Clothes: The more structure in your clothes, the more mature the look. I’d recommend building your wardrobe around tailored garments and accessories - double breasted coats, belts, blazers, and other fitted items.
Drape Yourself in Jewel Tones: Bright primary colors are youthful looking, but deeper jewel tones like emerald or turquoise are more refined. Neutral colors will also add to the maturity of your outfits.
Wear Makeup: The key here is to wear makeup that’s not too heavy. Try makeup that’s sophisticated, like a soft smoky eye for evening.
Slip on a Pair of Heels: Since you’re only 5 feet tall, you’ll also benefit from a couple of inches of extra height. Height will help you add years to your look, especially if the shoe is in a sophisticated style.
Last but not least, exude confidence through your posture and smile - act as though you absolutely belong where you are (which you do!). Carriage reflects maturity, and this will take you further than anything you’re wearing.
Have a great tip about how to dress to look older? Share it with us in the comments!
Entry Filed under: Q&A,Ready Made Outfits,Women,Women's
4 Comments
1. mimi | October 21st, 2008 at 8:48 am
an updated, sophisticated hair cut does wonders. A lot of younger women are still wearing their high school hair. A fresh change makes you see yourself in a new light, and that’s a confidence booster, too.
2. Trisha | October 22nd, 2008 at 10:38 pm
Great tip, Mimi. A fresh haircut really does make a difference!
3. Vanesa | December 29th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Thanks for the great advice Coleen. Great post!
4. Krystal | May 28th, 2011 at 11:25 pm
I’m 22 going to be 23 and I get mistaken for 15-16 all the time. Unfortunately it’s in my genes and I can’t afford make up, sophisticated outfits and hair cuts. What can I do?