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30 Fall & Winter Fashion Mistakes That Make You Look Older

When the temperatures drop, the layers inevitably start piling on. It's time to say goodbye to denim shorts, summer dresses, and platform sandals, and hello to oversized coats, cozy knits, and leather boots. Unfortunately, with these added layers, there are many fashion mistakes that can occur. If you're not careful, you may be making yourself look years older than you actually are. No one wants that. 

Instead of letting your fall and winter wardrobe age you, let it make you feel youthful. Here are the top 30 fashion mistakes that you don't want to make this season as per the style and fashion experts. Once you realize these are major fashion faux pas, you'll never make these mistakes again.  So, if you can, you should adhere to this advice. Of course, with any style slideshow, we suggest that you wear what makes you feel your very best, but making a few changes to your style wouldn't hurt either. If you do decide to take our advice and avoid these common fashion mistakes, let us know what you think. Do you feel younger and more vibrant? We hope so!

Not Pairing Black and Navy

Not Pairing Black and Navy

If you think black and navy don’t go together, you are mistaken. These dark hues can look incredibly chic if you pair them correctly! Start off by wearing a black sweater with dark navy jeans. Fall is normally a time of oranges, yellows, and brown neutrals, so why not change things up and try a different color scheme? 

Once you’re comfortable, you can branch out to wearing a navy blouse with a black jacket or a navy dress with black tights. The possibilities with these two colors are endless, and fall is the perfect time try something new and unexpected. 

Always Playing It Safe

Always Playing It Safe

Look at the colors and outfits in your wardrobe. Are they mostly neutrals with very few variations? If your style hasn’t changed much in the last decade, that undoubtedly dates you. Just because it's fall or winter doesn't mean you have to go the expected and safe route with seasonal colors and oversized sweaters. 

Instead, update your wardrobe with a new blouse or pair of pants, preferably something that adds color. The days at this time of year are cold and dreary, and a pop of color could be exactly what you need to lift your spirits. It's the perfect time to think outside of the box. 

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Wearing the Wrong Shoes

Wearing the Wrong Shoes

Winter is all about the booties and thigh-high boots. So put away your skinniest heels and medium-length boots, reserve your UGG boots for around the house, and soak up boots season! Boots are the best and most fashionable way to keep your feet warm in this chilly time of year. 

Boots are comfortable, warm, and perfect for the fall and winter months. They’re also super trendy and look good with almost any outfit. You really can't go wrong with boots in fall and winter, so find yourself the perfect pair and get ready to show them off to everyone! 

Thinking Winter = Long Hair

Thinking Winter = Long Hair

Long, flowing locks are the perfect winter accessory, but consider going a little shorter this winter. For one thing, short hair (the "Lob," in particular) is in right now. Plus, shorter hair actually makes you look thinner and younger. It's another opportunity to go against the grain and try something new this season. 

So, if you’re thinking about cutting your hair, do it! It will make you look and feel fresh and youthful. If you're worried about keeping warm without your luscious locks, why not pair your new hairdo with a great scarf and hat combo to keep warm? 

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Over-Accessorizing

Over-Accessorizing

There’s a fine line between wearing the right number of accessories and going overboard. Some women can wear a ton of accessories and look good – looking at you, Iris Apfel. However, it’s pretty tough for most women to pull it off. Piling on the jewelry isn't a great look at any time of year. 

The easiest way to avoid this is to only wear one or two thin, dainty necklaces, one ring, a thin bracelet, and a pair of stud earrings. When it comes to showing off your fashion sense during the fall and winter, there are better ways to do it than weighing yourself down with a ton of jewelry. 

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Not Using Winter Accessories to Your Advantage

Not Using Winter Accessories to Your Advantage

From blanket scarves to leather gloves, winter fashion accessories are the best fashion accessories. Take advantage of the season and add pops of color and flair to your winter outfits with a few stylish and seasonal add-ons to your wardrobe. You'll be staying warm while still looking great—what's not to love about that? 

If you need inspiration, look no further than Pinterest or Instagram. Pinterest has thousands of images of fashion bloggers and Instagram is filled with photos of celebrities and fashion influencers. There's no shortage of inspiration out there for those of us looking to perfect our seasonal looks!

Wearing Ill-Fitting Sweaters

Wearing Ill-Fitting Sweaters

Oversized sweaters are cute in theory and perfectly acceptable (not to mention super comfy) to wear around the house. But an ill-fitting sweater doesn't look flattering on anyone—it's really hard to look baggy andput together at the same time. So, if you're stepping out in public, you might want to change into a more lightweight sweater, like chenille.

If you just can't imagine leaving the house without an oversized sweater, you do still have some options. A sweater dress paired with a belt is the perfect way to feel cozy and comfy without looking like you're about to settle down for winter hibernation. 

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Not Tailoring Your Clothing

Not Tailoring Your Clothing

Winter clothing tends to already be bulky and oversized, but by not having your coats tailored, you're just adding extra bulk. It might feel warm and cozy under all those giant layers, but you're not doing yourself any fashion favors looking twice as big as you actually are thanks to untailored clothing. 

In addition to having winter coats tailored, you may also want to have your blazers and trousers tailored. These are other clothing items that look their best when properly fitted. Getting some top-notch tailoring done is great at any time of the year, but it's especially important at this time of year when people generally start to layer up. 

Pairing the Same Coat With Everything

Pairing the Same Coat With Everything

If it’s really cold where you live, you may be tempted to pair the same, black parka with every outfit in order to keep warm. Yet, wearing that same coat every day makes your outerwear look like an afterthought, rather than a crucial component of your outfit. It gets boring really quickly! 

Instead, invest in two or three warm, staple coats in a variety of neutral tones. We recommend buying a black puffy coat, a tan wool coat, and a bold patterned coat. With a few options at your disposal, you'll look better but won't go bankrupt trying to pair every outfit with a new coat. 

Wearing Cheap Outerwear

Wearing Cheap Outerwear

If there is one area where you should splurge, it’s outerwear. People will be able to tell if you scored your new coat for $40, so it’s worth it to pay a little more for a quality one that’s comfortable and won’t start to fall apart after a single season. 

Choose a classic style that will last, like a trench or duster coat. These are clothing pieces that are worth splurging on. They’ll be sure to last multiple seasons. It might seem like a big investment at first, but after a few seasons with it, you'll realize it's the best investment you've ever made! 

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Being Afraid to Dress Casual

Being Afraid to Dress Casual

In case you haven’t heard, athleisure and casual wear is all the rage right now in the fashion world. Comfort is becoming as important as style, which makes it perfectly acceptable to wear your sweatpants and sneakers outside the house. However, you probably don't want to roll out in that pair of sweats you've owned since college! 

Stick to modernized styles, like jogger pants and Adidas Superstars. Leave the ratty, holey sweats at home to keep from looking unpolished. There are plenty of options for fashionable and high-quality sweatwear, as bizarre as that might seem to hear to some people.

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Going Dark With Your Hair and Makeup

Going Dark With Your Hair and Makeup

Winter fashion is all about rocking black, mauve, and navy everything. So when you go dark with your makeup too, you get a harsh look that can really age you. Instead, choose a natural lipstick and pair it with bold, winged eyeliner. It will be a great twist to your normal makeup look. 

If you want to sport a red or dark lip, just make sure you go light everywhere else. This means easing up on your eyeshadow, eyeliner, and lashes. Winter is definitely not the time to try out a new goth phase! Keep things at least a little light for the best look possible. 

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Donning Ugly Holiday Patterns

Donning Ugly Holiday Patterns

Sweaters are a winter fashion staple, but opt for a nice neutral color like white, black, or gray. Steer clear of cheesy holiday patterns that feature snowflakes, reindeer, etc. They might look hilarious, but they are so overdone at this point that no one is really laughing about them anymore. 

Our go-to holiday party look includes a bright red knit and a pair of black, fitted trousers or a black leather skirt and black tights. That way, you still look like you're in the holiday spirit without looking like a tacky joke. It's the perfect addition to a fashionable Christmas. 

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Not Wearing White

Not Wearing White

“No white after labor day” is one of the most outdated fashion rules there is. Winter whites are incredibly chic, and they can make you look young and fresh. Pair your favorite white jeans or pants with a striped top, ankle booties or flats, and a gray coat for a fashion blogger-worthy look. 

Or, pair dark denim with bright, white sweaters. No matter how you wear your winter whites, you’ll be sure to look trendy and youthful. That being said, an all-white outfit might be a little overkill—especially if you get caught in a blizzard! Add a few pops of color here and there so that people don't mistake you for a snowman. 

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Wearing Baggy Clothes

Wearing Baggy Clothes

Oversized tops and sweaters are trending right now, but some people don’t realize that there’s a difference between oversized and baggy. The trick to making sure a sweater isn’t too big on you is to check the sleeves. Sweater sleeves will never steer you wrong when you're trying to find the perfect (yet oversized) fit. 

Properly oversized sweaters will come to your wrists, while baggy ones will be far too long. Pay attention to the fit before you purchase! If you don't, you might end up looking like a baggy hot mess instead of a cozy and comfortable fashion guru in a perfectly oversized sweater. 

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Wearing Turtlenecks

Wearing Turtlenecks

Turtlenecks are out (they've been out for a really long time, in case you missed it). Instead, shop for mock turtlenecks. They're a tad shorter than turtlenecks, a looser fit, and so much more flattering. You still get a bit of the turtleneck effect without feeling like your sweater is trying to choke you to death. 

If you’re not quite ready to ditch the turtleneck trend, opt for a turtleneck with personality. For example, a turtleneck sweater with oversized sleeves. Really anything that's not the same old, boring turtleneck style will be a step in the right direction for your winter fashion. 

Keeping Old Glasses

Keeping Old Glasses

Wearing your old frames from over a decade ago can save you a little money, but nothing makes you look older than glasses from the '80s. Style has changed quite a bit and your frames should too. Tortoiseshell is a great glasses style if you want a pop of fall color during the season. 

They’re often the first thing people see, and they highlight your features. You can pick up a new pair for pretty cheap online as long as you have your prescription. Tis the season for a new pair of glasses—your eyes and your fashion sense deserve it! 

Not Mixing Prints

Not Mixing Prints

Whoever said you couldn't mix prints is seriously disturbed. Leopard print looks amazing with plaid, and gold and silver jewelry is an edgy-chic combination. Mix and match all you want this winter season! We promise that Santa won't put you on the naughty list if you do. 

Start out simple. Mix vertically striped pants with a floral top or a herringbone vest with a plaid shirt. You may be surprised by how much you like your new, bold style. You might want to add a few print pieces to your Christmas list too! 

Wearing Shapeless Coats

Wearing Shapeless Coats

It’s cold out, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a silhouette! You can easily get a great silhouette by purchasing a coat that’s a little tailored in at the hips. Alternatively, you can also use a chunky belt to wrap around your waist if you know you won’t take the coat off for a while.

As fashion evolves, fashion designers evolve. Many women’s coats are pre-tailored so that they hug you in all the right places. Pay attention to all of your options when shopping for outerwear. A coat is definitely the one clothing purchase you don't want to rush or skimp on. 

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Not Moisturizing Your Hands and Chest

Not Moisturizing Your Hands and Chest

Moisturizer is essential, but never more critical than it is during the winter. Skin can become dry very quickly, and it doesn’t take long until it actually appears older than you really are. During the winter, you should moisturize much more than you do during the summer. Doctors suggest at least twice a day.

One easy way to make sure you’re moisturizing daily is to make it a habit. Every single day after you get out of the shower, slather yourself with face and body lotion. Don't let the harsh winter wind steal your flawless skin from you this season. Moisturizing is the simplest and kindest thing you can do for your skin. 

Wearing the Wrong Bra

Wearing the Wrong Bra

Ill-fitting bras are possibly one of the worst things you can do for your body. It’s winter and baggier (not shapeless, mind you) clothes are in, but a bad bra can cause pain and irritation. This goes beyond looking older and moves into what’s best for you and your body.

Victoria’s Secret is known for their accurate bra-fittings. They measure you before you buy so that you know you’re getting a bra that actually fits correctly. It might feel a little embarrassing at first, but the best thing to do is bite the bullet and ask an associate for some advice. They've got the knowledge to help you find the perfect fit. 

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Wearing Too Few Textures

Wearing Too Few Textures

With layering, you can create a look that’s completely your own through the use of various colors, patterns, and textures in your outfit. Unfortunately, many people forget the texture element. Even though your colors and patterns might be wildly different, you still end up with a bland-looking outfit overall. Texture matters! 

Rather than wearing a cotton sweater with cotton leggings, mix it up by pairing a chunky knit sweater with leggings that have a touch of leather. You don't have to go completely texture crazy, but a little pop of something can go a long way to elevating your look. 

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Wearing All Black

Wearing All Black

Black can be slimming, but if it’s the only color in your winter wardrobe, you’ll end up looking dated and a bit lifeless. Mix it up by adding a pair of colored ankle booties, a blush scarf, or a pair of statement earrings that will give your look some visual interest.

You’ll be surprised by how much better you feel when wearing a little color—even if it’s just in your accessories. Winter is already a cold and dark time enough already without dressing like you're the Grim Reaper. Get in the holiday spirit, at least a little bit, with a pop of color here and there. 

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Wearing Bulky Layers

Wearing Bulky Layers

Winter fashion is all about the layers, but believe it or not there is a right way to do it—and a wrong way. If you're wearing a bulky sweater, opt for a lightweight coat with a slender shape. Otherwise, bulky sweater + bulky coat + chunky scarf = way too much bulk.

If you’re still unsure of how to layer, remember the top-and-bottom-ratio rule: If you're wearing a loose top, wear more form-fitting pants, and vice versa. It's all about balance when it comes to layering. With a little practice, you'll be a pro at it in no time! 

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Buying Jeans and Pants with Too Much Stretch

Buying Jeans and Pants with Too Much Stretch

We want to be comfy and cozy during the winter, but there’s such a thing as too stretchy. Getting jeans and pants that are too large can get rid of your shape. They may feel warmer and more comfortable in these cold months, but they're not a great look fashion-wise. 

Alternatively, you don’t want the stretch to squeeze to your body so tight that it makes your legs look like they’re trying to break free. Buy jeans with 2% or more of elastic fiber and pants with 4%. A little stretch goes a long way—just don't overdo it! 

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Not Winterizing Your Summer Clothes

Not Winterizing Your Summer Clothes

Shorts and skirts aren’t quite as popular in the winter as they are in the summer, but they can still be made functional and fashionable. Opt for tweed, suede, or leather shorts and skirts. There are plenty of ways to make your wardrobe last all year long with just a few smart tips. 

Layer them over sheer tights and pair them with chunky sweaters or cardigans. You’ll look effortlessly sexy and still feel nice and cozy. It's always nice to have a little reminder of the summer sun in those cold winter months, and winterizing your warm-weather clothes will do just the trick! 

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Not Updating Older Accessories

Not Updating Older Accessories

While accessorizing is important to keep in mind for the summer, it’s never more essential than in the winter months. You need scarves, gloves, hats, and all sorts of items to stay warm, but wearing the same thing you've worn for three decades can age you. Plus, they might not be looking so great after all that use. 

Updating your accessories (including your handbag) is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to update your look. While it's always good to get the most use out of the things you buy, at some point, it's time to part with them, and these colder months is the perfect time to do so! 

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Wearing Chunky Shoes

Wearing Chunky Shoes

It’s the winter, so it's time to think about which shoes to wear. They can keep you from slipping on ice, but some people make the mistake of choosing really chunky shoes. It doesn't matter what the weather is like outside—chunky shoes are rarely a good choice at any time of the year. 

Chunky shoes make your legs look heavy, and that’s not something anyone needs. Instead, wear a slimming flat or a nice pair of booties. Plus, winter is the perfect time to break out those warm boots collecting dust in your closet...as long as they're not too chunky! 

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Caking on Makeup

Caking on Makeup

During the winter, you may feel the urge to wear heavier foundation. This can be a mistake because foundation can often settle into your skin and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, all those layers of makeup are not going to do any favors for your skin's health, which can be a problem in the cold months. 

Instead, try to use a tinted BB or CC cream. These can correct color or provide a slight tint that acts like foundation without all the heaviness. Anything you can do to avoid caking on layers of makeup will be something that your skin is sure to appreciate! 

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Emphasizing Your Lower Lashes

Emphasizing Your Lower Lashes

A good coat of mascara is nearly all a person needs sometimes, but there’s a fine line between looking good and aging. Putting mascara and eyeliner on your lower lash line emphasizes crow’s-feet and dark undereye circles. It's like putting a magnifying glass on everything you want to hide from view. 

Instead, put light eyeshadow on the lower lash line and forgo mascara and liner on the lower portion of your eye. It might seem a little odd at first, but it's the best way to hide nearby wrinkles and keep your eyes looking their best! 

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