In general, do you have tips for presenting a youthful appearance?
I was asked this question during a virtual styling presentation and I think it hits to the heart of what many people feel: the desire to look modern and current without looking like you’re trying too hard and definitely not feeling ridiculous in clothing that reads “too young.”
In my experience, a simple way to achieve a youthful appearance is to update your basics on a regular basis. Nothing says out of touch more than dated garments and older clothing fabrics and combinations.
Here are 3 guidelines for achieving this
1) Determine what “basics” means to you. Most people think of T-shirts + jeans or trousers and sweaters as basics. This may be true for you but depending on your lifestyle—what you do every day—your definition of “basics” may be more expansive. Don’t forget shoes and handbags and also workout gear and leggings when updating your basics.
2) Just start—don’t overthink the shopping part of this. Start buying updated pieces a bit at a time and by category. Let’s take the denim category as an example: you may feel that you have great basic jeans, but if you haven’t bought anything new for a few seasons, then your silhouettes and fabrics are going to start to feel dated. Adding in one or two new pairs of jeans each year ensures that your wardrobe and your everyday look stays updated and youthful. This doesn’t mean you have to stop wearing your older jeans—though you may want to once you feel how great a new pair of denim wears on a daily basis. Adding new, basic garments (jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, sweaters) into the rotation keeps everything else looking fresh.
3) Re-style your favorites. If you have items that are many seasons old but still in great shape and make you feel great when wearing, then in your mind move them to the ‘classic’ category. Here’s an example: you have a fabulous black blazer (this definitely qualifies as a basic). It’s from the early 00’s but looks and feels great on you. You don’t wear blazers often but when you need it, it’s a great go-to piece so why buy another? You always wear it the same way—with trousers also from the early 00’s or any other piece that is not from a relatively current season. That’s going to look dated. Instead, pair it with some updated jeans or a new midi-length skirt or cropped faux leather trousers. Think of it as vintage (in the best way) and highlight its specialness by pairing it with newer items. Re-styling this piece is a great way to keep using it while still looking relevant and modern, i.e. youthful.
I’ve added several boards of basics onto my Virtual Storefront (including Petite and Tall sizes!) and you can click the image below to shop it as well.
Click on this image to shop!
Final Thought:
I notice that people can get caught up in the idea of classic pieces. For example, they think “I spent a lot of money on this” or “This is a classic silk blouse that should go with everything” but for some reason they aren’t wearing the items. If you’re not wearing your pieces and you can’t figure out how to re-style them, then let them go. Focus on what your lifestyle calls for right now and dress for that rather than any kind of “shoulds” or rules of what is a great and classic piece.
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Want some help with all of this? Give me a buzz! A short session with me either virtually or in person can give you lots of new information and ideas of how to look and feel great while wearing the things you love. Happy New Year!