by Cydne Logan

Created on: December 12, 2007

We all have that women in our life that refuses to comply with the laws of stylish aging. You know the one-she wears high heels and shorts, or pink lipstick and teased hair, cleavage popping t-shirts or carries teeny bopper handbags. Or maybe she is at the opposite end of the spectrum, dressing too mature and years beyond her birth certificate. Long shorts, and dowdy Birkenstock sandals, you wonder if she's in the witness protection program. Why else would she be trying to disappear?

These are, of course, very extreme cases of Not Dressing Your Age. There are various levels of committing this offense, none of which you want to be counted guilty of. Fashion faux pas change as we mature, and following a few simple guidelines can keep us from aging ourselves. Remember- dressing too young may make you look older than you are. No one wants to see someone with crow's feet with butterfly clips in their hair. It only highlights that you have them.

This is not to say that once you hit the big 3-0 or 4-0 your fashion sense has to morph into that of your Mother's. We hope that the essence of your style can remain the same, with a few updates and accents to highlight your newly acquired maturity. After all, your style reflects YOU, and as you age, you should only become more of yourself. Fashion can be fun at any age, and as long as you have the voice of reason whispering in your ear, it can also help you present your best self to the world around you. Like it or not, people judge you most on your appearance, so let's give the best impression we can.

Here are just a few guidelines for dressing most appropriately for your age.

In your 20s

Your twenties are a time for defining your fashion sense. This is a decade where following many of the trends is most acceptable, since the fashion industry is directed mostly to your generation. Wear what you love, and if you feel great in it, take note. This could give you much insight that will guide you throughout your fashion timeline.
Animal prints, brightly colored tights, large headbands, flowing fabrics, tailored trousers, or polo shirts; experiment and find what you feel most comfortable in. Don't settle on sweats or unflattering fits that are unfeminine. This is not the time to fall into a pattern of being lazy.

What you are attracted to now will most likely be what you are drawn to in your 30s, so have fun and be open to new looks. What you get complimented most on is likely what is most flattering. Unless the compliment is from

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>