Fashion Tips to Help You Look Younger

What’s Aging You: Wide-Leg Cropped Pants

These flares “hit you at the worst possible spot between the knee and the ankle, shortening legs and adding bulk,” says Krupp. Even Heidi Klum’s limbs would look like tree trunks in these.

The more youthful approach: Channel Audrey Hepburn with slim-cut Capris that are as sleek as possible. (Really, would the Funny Face star have been seen in anything with cargo pockets?) Keep your body type in mind: Curvy figures benefit from a straighter leg, while slender frames can pull off pegged cuffs. Five inches above the ankle is a flattering length for most women.

What’s Aging You: Certain Pastels

If you’re not careful, these soft and sweet shades end up reading girlie or Golden Girls-y—neither of which is the goal.

The more youthful approach: Jewel tones are a safer bet. They look modern and tend to flatter multiple complexions, hair colors, and ages, says Boston. However, you don’t have to rule out pastels, especially since they’re a big trend this spring. It’s about wearing them in a cooler way. Pair them with subdued neutrals—try mint green with either gray (in the winter) or white (in the summer). “This looks fresh and makes the pastels pop,” says Rothman. Another good idea: Choose a streamlined garment, like a Jackie O.–inspired shift, instead of something with fussy ruffles.

What’s Aging You: Workout Clothes When You’re Not Working Out

There’s a time for fleece jackets, white cross-trainers, and oversize tees—and it’s when you’re on the treadmill or repainting the den, not when you’re doing activities that don’t make you break a sweat.

The more youthful approach: Thanks to long jersey tops, knit dresses, stretch jeans, and leggings, you can be comfortable without resembling a mall walker. However, if you want to be able to shoot straight from Pilates to lunch with the girls, go with workout gear from style-savvy brands like Lululemon and Beyond Yoga. And always apply the same rules that you would to any outfit, says Rothman: Colors (including shades of black) should match; clothes shouldn’t be dingy or beat up; and cuts should flatter your body (ditch the XXL college T-shirts, boxy zip-ups, and awkwardly short yoga pants). Another thing: All-white sneakers can have an orthopedic look, so choose a pair with color.

What’s Aging You: Matchy-Matchy Jewelry

Sure, the heart pendant, bracelet, and earrings were sold as a set, but should they all be worn at the same time? “That totally dates you,” says Gross.

The more youthful approach: Go for contrasting yet complementary baubles. “You want to be a little ‘off,’ so that people wonder, Where did she get that?” says Krupp. Let one item be the focal point (such as a bib necklace or oversize gemstone drops), then base others around it—don’t force bold pieces to compete. And despite what Mom might have told you, it’s perfectly fine to mix silver and gold, particularly if the pieces are worn next to one another, like stacked necklaces or bangles.