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You've seen her: the woman of a certain age who seems to be trying just a little too hard. You may have laughed to yourself when you saw her makeup that was a little too sparkly, her trendy skirt that was a little too short, and her hairdo that was a little too girlish.

Experience shows us that some women's attempts to look younger can completely backfire, heightening their age even more. You might even be one of them without realizing it. Think about it. Have you significantly changed your makeup routine since high school? No? Uh oh.

Before you start to panic and dial up the local Botox injector, take a deep breath. There are things you can do to look younger, and they take a lot less time than surgical procedures. Save your time, save your money, and most importantly: save the teenybopper looks for the teenyboppers.

#1) Invest in Shapewear

Even if you do your best to stay in shape, your body changes in ways that are beyond your control. Slim that slightly-rounded tummy with a bodyshaper to its before-the-kids flatness, and you'll look like you've shaved off years along with the pounds. A good bra with a little lift can defy your age as well as gravity.

#2) Ditch the Old Lady Shoes

The only excuse for wearing sneakers is if you're on your way to the gym. And matron shoes? There is no excuse for dowdy flats, especially now that designers are smart enough to make comfy shoes that look the same as their killer counterparts. Even a small heel will elongate your leg, look more stylish, and lift your spirits too.

#3) Groom Those Brows

Nothing ages you more than a scowl-ish furrowed brow. Perk up your whole face by giving your eyebrows an instant lift with the tweezers. Remember to arch them upward, and you'll have the equivalent of a facelift in the next five minutes. While you're at it, use a pencil to darken in the grays.

#4) Update Your Eyewear

It's okay to admit your vision isn't what it used to be. What isn't okay is looking like the spinster librarian. If you're still wearing the same style you wore ten years ago or more, it's no wonder Boy Scouts are helping you across the street. Choose a hip pair, consulting fashion mags if you need pointers, and go from uber-frumpy to uber-smart-and-stylish in seconds.

#5) Tone Down the Makeup

It's hard to get it through some women's heads that, just at the time when their faces are less youthful, they should scale down their makeup look. However, too much, too bright, and too glittery is just one step away from a monster movie when it's on an aging face. Lighten up: choose neutral shadow shades, tone down the lipstick from red to pink, and see your face glow rather than glare.

Aging with beauty and grace is all about accepting who you are. You're not a crone who has to dress in little old lady garb, but you're also not a teenager who can buy the trend-of-the-moment off of the Junior racks. Save the costumes for the actors. Embrace these little changes that will help illuminate the wonderful woman inside.

Learn more about this author, Elizabeth Kelly.
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