How to Look 10 Years Younger

I can’t imagine there are very many of you who aren’t intrigued by the title of today’s post, of course unless you’re in your early twenties. Most of the time the “10 year promise” refers to skin care, but not today. I’m talking about dressing to appear 10 years younger. And it’s so much easier than you think!

 All right, I’m just gonna say it! To look 10 years younger in your clothes, you need to dress in a modern way and adopt fashions that are new to you, styles that may feel foreign to you. For example, the other day I was working with a client in a fitting room. Her personal style is fairly conservative and traditional. And we found her some wonderful, fresh clothes that felt true to her essence. Then I wanted to push the envelope a little and gave her a pair of skinny jeans and a tunic sweater to try. My eyes popped out of my head when I saw her! She literally looked at least 10 years younger with this youthful style.

 I work with my clients extensively to develop their personal style, so I’m not suggesting you abandon your personal style completely. I’m merely encouraging you to experiment with some new things.

 Here are a few more tips to create a more youthful image:

First, be prepared to show a little skin. Note, I said a little bit…keeping things completely age appropriate. Covering up from head to toe is neither youthful nor flattering. If you always wear high necklines, play with a lower neckline (keeping it business appropriate, of course.) If you’re a little uncomfortable with this, fill in the area with a necklace.

Yes, midi skirts are very stylish right now, but perhaps you’d look a bit younger showing off your fabulous legs. I’m not suggesting a mini skirt, but perhaps to the tops of your knees or a little shorter, especially if you’re petite. Contrary to what you may think, there is nothing wrong with your knees!

Next, it’s extremely important to dress for your body type for a modern, youthful look. In general, fitted clothing is more flattering to most body shapes than shapeless clothing. Tailored, fitted clothing (not tight) is also more professional than look baggy clothing. I specifically remember working with a plus sized client who although in her forties was wearing straight cut tops that were too tight and shapeless gauzy tops that weren’t doing her any favors either. What I discovered is that she has an amazing, hourglass figure. We chose dresses and tops that weren’t too tight but highlighted her waist. Finally, she’s dressing for her body type and looks like a million bucks!

 Lastly, there are a lot of styles that are considered trendy right now that are re-runs of classic styles from a few decades ago. It’s usually best to avoid these. For the most modern look, it’s best to stick to trends you haven’t worn before.

 To wrap things up, even if your personal style is classic and conservative, it’s imperative to add in some modern, even trendy touches to remain youthful looking. You never want others wondering if that brand new, uber-classic blouse you just bought is new or one you’ve had for years on end.

 If you want to look 10 years younger, you can start by simply following today’s tips. There are tons of fabulous, spring styles out in the stores right now. If it’s been a little while since you last shopped, I encourage you to take a little shopping trip and try on some new styles you might not normally choose. You’ll have fun, and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with your results.

 If you’d like to learn even more about how to look 10 years younger, please join my good friend Tamara Hutchins, LAc., M.S. and I on April 21 for a fun evening gathering called Look 10 Years Younger Naturally. Click through for all the details and to register.