Dress to look younger
Take years off your age with the right outfits -- for work, fun and a night on the town
Toss off a casual look. Make the top a tee. You can't go wrong with a clean white T-shirt in quality cotton that won't loosen and sag. It looks youthful but not juvenile.
Choose chicer shorts. Cut-off Daisy Dukes are too sloppy once you're out of your teens. Pick shorts the way you do pants -- go for a good fit in the waist and hips. Make sure they're not too short; they should hit around mid-thigh.
Skip the trashed sneakers. They'll make your feet look frumpy! Opt for trendy sneakers or a pair of thong sandals.
Work it with style. Rely on a button-down. A crisp, classic button-down shirt has fresh yet professional appeal. Get one that's neatly fitted -- too loose looks dumpy, but too tight looks trashy. And the space between the buttons should not gap.
Slim with slacks. Choose trousers without pleats in black or in neutral colors to slenderize. Pinstripes also will make you look thinner.
Pare years with accessories. Your shoes and purse can really enliven your look. Swap "sensible" shoes -- without sacrificing comfort -- for a sleek pump or mule with 1 ½-inch heels. Carry a bag in a bright color for a youthful touch.
Go out with a bang. Keep it sleek. The best bet for evening is a simple dress that flatters your assets and disguises what you want to hide. Something with a sash camouflages a tummy; three-quarter sleeves cover upper arms stylishly.
Think less is more. Piling on accessories can make you look old-fashioned. A simple strand of pearls and an elegant satin clutch are all you need to complement your dress. If you prefer more glitz, try a necklace, bracelet or earrings that sparkle -- but not all of them at once.
Slip on heels and sexy hose. A pair of high heels will elongate your legs and give you a more pulled-together look. Some patterned tights give your look a young feeling -- they're so much "cooler" than panty hose.