Tips To Make Your Favorite Trends Age Appropriate

By Brian Maynor

 

Runways are great for checking out your favorite designer’s latest offerings, but they aren’t the only place we see looks we want to adopt.

Now that social media has become the new runway, we are constantly able to have inspiration delivered right to us, but when it’s on someone considerably younger incorporating it into your wardrobe can be a bit tricky.

Here are a few of the hottest trends hitting social media and stores and tips on how to age them up so you can stay on trend, feel comfortable wearing them and most of all look age appropriate:

1.    Graphic Tees.  A teenage staple, when you’re no longer a student you can still pull them off if you make a few tweaks.  Instead of skinny jeans and sneakers, pair it with a midi-skirt or chino and a casual, but more sophisticated shoe like chukka boots or mules.

2.    Classic sneakers.  No matter what brand you choose, sneakers and shorts or jeans may be great for your child, but not so much for an adult.  If you just can’t kick your Vans or Converse, try pairing them with dress pants and t-shirt or even a full suit.  Depending on how clean your shoes are will affect the level of casualness your outfit carries.

3.    Bomber Jackets.  Another huge trend carrying over from last year, bomber jackets are a perfect blend of functional and personal style.  Fabric choices like a silk; velvet and suede are much better choices than nylon or cotton if you want to claim an elevated piece.  Also don’t feel you have to only wear them on the weekends.  Throwing one on over a suit or dress and tie will instantly give your look a cool, independent vibe.

4.    Sweatshirts.  This longstanding casual classic is now being seen with shirts and ties, under blazers and even with pencil skirts, in a play on a relaxed office look.  To pull this off not only do you want to leave the logos, university mascots and any other screen-printing or embroidery off, you want to look for slim cuts in a lightweight cotton.  That way you cut out the bulk but none of the style.

Don’t feel bad if you like the style of a teenage model, blogger other social media ‘celebrity’.   Inspiration comes from all sources.  Just be sure you play around with the looks to find the best way to wear them that is both flattering and appropriate for you.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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