5 clothing items that quietly make boomers look older than they actually are

We’ve all had that moment: you catch a glimpse of yourself in a mirror or in a candid photo and think, Do I really look that tired? That old?

The truth is, aging well isn’t about desperately trying to look 20 when you’re 60.

Looking youthful and confident doesn’t come from chasing trends or hiding who you are. It comes from making choices—big and small—that highlight your best self.

One of the most overlooked factors? The clothes you wear.

What we wear influences how others perceive us, but it also shapes how we feel about ourselves. Psychologists call this “enclothed cognition”—the idea that clothing changes not only how people see us but how we think, feel, and carry ourselves . 

With that in mind, let’s talk about five common clothing items that can unintentionally add years—and what you can swap them out for to feel fresh, confident, and stylish.

1. Baggy, shapeless cardigans

I get it. Cardigans are cozy, practical, and easy to throw on. But oversized, saggy knits often swallow the body, making you appear heavier and more tired than you are.

Instead, try a cardigan with a defined cut, structure, or belt to create shape. Or swap it for a tailored blazer that instantly sharpens your look while still keeping you comfortable.

It’s not about rejecting comfort. It’s about finding balance between ease and polish. Structured layers can make you look vibrant and put-together without sacrificing that cozy feel.

2. Sensible orthopedic-looking shoes

Comfort is important—I’d never suggest torturing your feet in sky-high heels. But chunky “comfort shoes” can sometimes scream “I’ve given up.”

Thankfully, shoe brands have caught up with style. Today, you can find supportive sneakers, block-heeled boots, and cushioned loafers that give you comfort and modern style.

A sleek pair of white leather sneakers, for example, can take ten years off your outfit compared to those bulky, beige Velcro walking shoes.

Your posture changes too—when you feel chic, you naturally carry yourself with more confidence.

3. Outdated denim styles

Denim is timeless—but not all cuts age equally.

Ultra-baggy “mom jeans” with high waists and no stretch or those ripped jeans from the 2000’s can add years in an instant.

If you love denim (and who doesn’t?), go for a darker wash with a modern cut. Straight-leg jeans with a bit of stretch or slim bootcuts can flatter without looking like you’re trying too hard.

And no, you don’t need a closet full of trendy jeans—just one or two versatile, flattering pairs can transform your look.

4. Ill-fitting trousers and skirts

Have you ever noticed how much younger people look in clothes that actually fit?

Too-tight clothing can look uncomfortable, while too-loose pieces create a sloppy effect. Both can add years.

I’ve seen this firsthand with my mom. She used to buy trousers a size bigger because she thought it would be more flattering—or at least more forgiving. But what it really did was make her look swallowed up in fabric.

The day she tried on a pair that fit her properly (with just a little tailoring at the waist), it was like a lightbulb went off. She suddenly looked taller, slimmer, and years younger—without changing anything else about her outfit.

That’s the power of tailoring. A simple adjustment at the waist or hem can completely change how a garment falls on your body.

A crisp, well-fitted trouser or pencil skirt can instantly elevate you, making you look poised, confident, and yes, younger.

5. Outdated prints 

Alirght… let’s talk about prints.

Busy florals, old-fashioned paisleys, or shiny polyester prints often read “dated” rather than “sophisticated.” These patterns tend to cling to specific decades, which can unintentionally broadcast your age.

Of course, that doesn’t mean all prints are off-limits. A bold geometric pattern, subtle stripes, or a modern floral in muted tones can feel fresh and stylish.

And natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk not only breathe better but also look more refined.

The difference is subtle, but the impression is powerful: choosing contemporary prints and quality fabrics makes your wardrobe feel alive instead of stuck in the past.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, aging gracefully isn’t about pretending to be younger than you are—it’s about showing up as the most vibrant version of yourself.

The clothes you wear should reflect the confidence and wisdom you’ve earned, not hide it under layers of “safe” choices that unintentionally age you.

Here’s a quick audit you can do right now:

• Check your closet for saggy cardigans, clunky shoes, or outdated denim.

• Ask yourself: Does this make me feel energized and confident—or tired and dated?

• Try pairing your favorite comfortable staples with one modern, well-fitted piece.

Small swaps can create a big shift in how you look and feel. And when you feel good, you carry yourself differently.

That’s the real secret: true style is less about clothes and more about confidence. The wardrobe is just a tool to help you shine.