Ask Amanda

Ask Amanda: How to Look My Age?

posted on March 18, 2014 | by Amanda Holstein

Ask Amanda: How to Look My Age?

The advice column features questions submitted by actual readers.
Their questions are only featured with their permission.

Question:

I’m 20, but most people think I’m anywhere between 14 and 17. Very rarely do people think I really am in my 20s. Mostly, it’s my height (I’m 5’1”), but it’s also because I have a “baby face”, and wear just normal jeans and a t-shirt. I also don’t do much with my make up. (Mostly eyeliner and mascara; sometimes eye shadow depending on my outfit and mood, very rarely lipstick).

I was just wondering if you had any advice on how to dress for my age and how to wear my hair and do my makeup so people don’t mistake me for a teenager?

Answer:

I think changing up your clothes is the best place to start. Jeans and a casual t-shirt can definitely look too young, especially if you’re already short. I would update your jeans to dark wash skinny jeans. They’re classic and look sleek and mature. I would also update your cotton t-shirts to silk blouses. There are lots of silk blouses right now for us girls in our twenties – try Madewell or Piperlime. Next up are your shoes – these are super important. Wearing casual shoes like converses can make you look younger. Try something more sleek like feminine flats, or if you’re more of a tomboy (like me), try booties! They can really make an outfit look edgier and more grownup, yet still casual. Piperlime has a great selection.

As for your makeup, definitely keep it simple yet mature. This means focus more on your skin and your face, and keep your eyes simple. One thing teenagers usually do that adults don’t is wear a lot of eye makeup and nothing on their face. I actually have a post going up tomorrow with tips on face makeup that might help you, so be sure to check it out!

I would also focus on your hair. Throwing it up in a ponytail or bun can make you look young. Try styling it up a bit more, whether it’s touching up your natural waves with a curling iron or blow drying it straight. Having your hair nice and sleek can really amplify your look.

Need advice? Submit your anonymous question here.
And don’t worry, I’ll only feature your question with your permission!

image via