Reader Request: How to Look Older in Casual Attire

Reader Request: "I'm a 23 year old 5ft 90lb Asian girl who often gets mistaken for a 15 year old (or an 18 year old on a good day). Can you offer any fashion advice on how to look more your age? Specifically when it comes to casual clothes. I'm in grad school in the sciences and don't have the benefit of wearing nice professional clothes."

Being the approximate age and size of this reader, I set out to illustrate her situation. I put on my "grad student of the sciences" ensemble: sweatshirt, jeans, sneaks, and a curious face. I avoided makeup and pulled my hair back into a simple ponytail. I pictured my parents nodding vigorously in approval (their mantra is: a minute wasted on makeup, hair, or fashion is a minute that could've been better spent on studying). End result - below left.

Before (left): Ready to get carded for a PG-13 movie.

After (right): A few changes make a big difference in age.

 Left: Gap hoodie PXS, A&F kids tee sz M, True Religion "Joey" kids sz 12, New Balance sneaks kids sz 4

Right: BR top PXXS, J.Crew cardigan XS, True Religion "Stella" kids sz 12, Cole Haan flats sz 5

To keep casual and grad school-appropriate (I'm picturing long treks across campus and hours studying in the library), I avoided high heels. I wouldn't call myself fashionable, so keep in mind these aren't tips to look more stylish, or taller - just more mature:

And although this isn't fashion advice - I feel that looking more mature or sophisticated truly starts at one's face. Asians, especially, tend to have young baby faces that can really be transformed with a little eyeliner, mascara (on curled lashes), and bronzer. I am wearing the products from my "5 minute face" video except NYC liquid eyeliner instead of pencil. Huge difference:

Continue reading for more suggestions...

I decided to put together another outfit for casual weekend-wear:

Before (left): going to jump rope in the park

After (right): going to an outdoor bistro lunch w/ handsome date (yea yea, humor me)

Left: Abercrombie tee XS, A&F kids shorts sz 12, Old Navy flip flops

Right: Gap white tee sz XS, H&M shorts sz 2, Alfani sandals (Macy's) sz 6 "borrowed" from Mom, BR earrings

You'd be surprised at how many people I see around Boston donning jorts (jean shorts), a graphic tee, and rubber flip flops. What could look acceptable on a normal sized woman, though, is devastatingly childish on a tiny petite. My tips for the casual "tee and shorts" outfit:

Low wedges and strappy sandals are my must-haves for summer. I love strolling around Boston, but I don't enjoy doing so tottering in heels or flopping around in rubber thongs. I've amassed several pairs of summer "walking shoes" from Macy's and Target at decent prices.

Hope you guys found this post somewhat helpful, or at the least - entertaining! I also hope I didn't offend any grad students. I have no idea how the reader in question dresses typically, so just gave it my best shot.


Readers - please share your tips on looking or dressing your age : )