Some men seem to carry around an invisible checklist of random things they claim make women look older, and while none of these opinions are hard facts or beauty rules, they’re definitely entertaining to hear. This isn’t about telling women to change who they are or to live up to someone else’s standards.
It’s simply a playful peek into how certain guys perceive signs of aging in women. So if you’re ready to roll your eyes, laugh a little, and take it all with a healthy dose of sass and salt, here are 15 surprisingly specific things men say make women appear older. First, we’ve got the “grandma’s garden party” fashion sense. While there’s nothing wrong with comfort, men often associate overly conservative outfits—like beige everything, shapeless sweaters, and ultra-practical shoes—with looking older.
They say adding a bit of color, modern cuts, or something that reflects personality can freshen your vibe instantly. Next is makeup, which ironically is meant to help you look younger, but guys say heavy foundation, overly penciled-in brows, and matte lipstick can do the opposite. They seem to prefer light, glowing skin with a touch of blush and mascara, which comes off more youthful and natural. When it comes to shoes, clunky, outdated footwear doesn’t go unnoticed.
Men don’t expect heels, but they do seem to notice when shoes feel more about function than style. Even a clean pair of white sneakers or sleek booties can elevate an outfit. Hair also sends signals—hanging on to the same haircut for decades is often seen as being stuck in time. Just changing your part or adding soft bangs or layers can bring your look up to date. Skin is another focus, not because of wrinkles but because of glow. Dry, flaky, dull skin tends to catch their eye as a sign of aging. A little moisturizer and SPF can go a long way. As for lipstick, deep, dark shades like wine or plum can make lips look thinner and highlight lines, while softer shades like coral or pink with a satin finish come across as more youthful and approachable. Shoe shape comes up again—bulky soles and orthopedic-looking shoes may be comfy, but men say they throw off the proportions of your outfit.
There are plenty of stylish and supportive options available that still show you care about how you look. Perfume is another area men have opinions about—specifically powdery, old-school scents they associate with their grandma’s house. They recommend fresher, subtler fragrances that make a modern, inviting impression. Constantly talking about being tired or complaining about aches and pains might be relatable, but men say it gives off an “I’m old” energy. Balancing that with some humor and joy can shift the mood entirely. On the flip side, trying too hard to act chill or be “one of the guys” can seem inauthentic. Whether you’re into sports or stilettos—or both—being yourself is always more attractive. Wearing outdated clothes, like jeans from the early 2000s, is another thing guys notice. Even adding a trendy bag, print, or modern silhouette can make a huge difference. Posture matters too—slouching is often linked with low energy and age. Standing tall projects confidence and vibrancy. Complaining about getting older may feel like harmless venting, but repeating it too often can make you seem like you’ve given up. Owning your age with confidence is far more empowering. And finally, negativity of any kind—gossip, constant complaints, or a pessimistic outlook—tends to be the biggest age booster of them all. Men say that a woman who radiates optimism, curiosity, and kindness always feels younger and more magnetic. So what’s the takeaway here? You don’t have to change a single thing to meet anyone else’s expectations. Your joy, confidence, and self-love are more powerful than any opinion, trend, or beauty hack. The most timeless thing a woman can wear is her power. And now, ladies, let’s turn the tables—what do you think makes men look older? Share your thoughts and pass this along to your friends. Let’s hear what everyone has to say!
