Your outfit choices are very important because whether we like to admit to it or not, fashion does matter. What we wear can affect the way people perceive us and we carefully choose outfits for different occasions. Why? Because first impressions matter and because we know that a simple tweak in our outfits can help us appear sophisticated, formal, in-trend, hip, and more.

So, how do you know if your outfit choices are adding years to your look? Here are 8 telltale signs to be mindful of.

1. Hemlines that are too long. By rule of thumb, you should always cut-off hemlines at the thinnest part of your leg (no longer), so look for dresses and skirts that stop right there. Anything longer can sometimes make you look a little frumpy.

2. Cropped pants. If you’re a fan of this look, go for a slim-fit pant which gives a more chic vibe, else, you’re pretty much entering aunty central.

3. An ill fitting bra. Believe it or not, this does have an impact on your overall look. Make sure you go for a fitting every year and find the right support for you.

Related: 5 Tips and Hacks for your Next Bra Purchase

4. Balance proportions. If you’re wearing a loose pant, wear a fitted top and vice versa. Going for a loose top and bottom can add years to your look.

Related: Embrace your proportions and dress for your body type

Still looking fab! Image: theodysseyonline.com
Still looking fab!
Image: theodysseyonline.com

5. Don’t wear the same colour head-to-toe. Break it up a little bit or add a different shade of colour through your accessories.

6. Declutter. Another reason this is so important is that your clothing may be outdated in terms of style and look. You know how some dresses look worn? It’s time to throw that out. Don’t keep replying on your same staple pieces that once worked for you 10 years ago. Move on and move up.

Related: Decluttering your wardrobe can be easy, here’s how!

7. Go easy with oversized. Boyfriend jeans are hot, and sometimes an oversized T can be too. But be careful not to overdo it. A tailored outfit and slim fit look will shed years from your look. When you try to cover up too much of your body, this translates to appearing more conservative / older.

8. Dress age appropriate. With this list, we’re not endorsing to dress like a teenage girl, but rather to embrace your age and dress to fit. Dressing overly sexy or like a teenager will make you appear to look like you’re trying too hard, which adds years to your look.

Image: harpersbazaar.com
Image: harpersbazaar.com