How to Look Older (for Pre Teens)

Wear classic clothing styles that fit you well.

Simple, classic pieces make you look polished. Black jeans, collared shirts, button-downs, pea coats, and leggings are just a few examples of classic pieces that always look good. To look older, choose items that fit you well. Try to avoid clothes that are super baggy or too tight. If you like wearing skirts, try a long, flowing skirt instead of a shorter style. A short-sleeved polo shirt tucked into khakis is a clean-cut and polished look. Invest in a couple of sophisticated and stylish but classic jackets. Avoid the trends and go with classic tailoring, classic lines, and classic fabric.

Wear an all-black outfit.

Black is best, but wearing any head-to-toe color looks mature. Wearing monochrome outfits make a stylish statement and shows everyone that you put thought and effort into your look. Black always looks stylish and grownup, but you can try other neutral colors, too. Neutral colors: black, grey, tan, cream, white, navy, and brown. See what shoe colors you have first since they need to match, too. You probably have mostly black, white, and/or brown, so build your outfit from there.

Avoid clothes with bold graphics and prints.

Little kids love wearing shirts with big, bright graphics. Stick with simple clothes, especially shirts, without graphics. Avoid anything with huge logos or cartoon characters on them. Wild prints can also make you look younger. Avoid sports team T-shirts and jerseys when you're trying to look older. Striped tops are great, just choose subdued, neutral colors. For example, try a white and navy striped T-shirt.

Iron the wrinkles out of your clothes.

Wrinkled and torn clothes can make you look young. See if your parents have a clothing iron or steamer around the house and ask them to show you how to use it. Hang up your clothes when you're done ironing. That way, they'll stay wrinkle-free until you put them on! It's easy to burn yourself, so be sure to ask your parents for help.

Swap your sneakers for flats or boots.

If you do wear sneakers, go with brands/styles that teenagers like. For example, sneakers can be cool if you rock a pair of Converse, Jordans, or Vans. Otherwise, stick with a cute pair of flats, loafers, or boots. Shoes with low heels are also good since they make you look taller. Skip tall heels—they’re too hard to walk in and can look costume-y.

Trade in your backpack for a nicer bag.

Older kids love carrying cool purses and handbags. Stick with simple designs in classic colors like black, cream, or brown. Leather (and faux leather) handbags are always a good choice. Leather messenger bags are also great—college kids use those a lot.

Wear simple jewelry.

Stick with a nice wristwatch or necklace. Big pieces of jewelry and bright-colored watchbands can look childish, so stick with gold or silver. Leather watchbands are nice, too! Avoid piling on the accessories and go with one simple piece that you really like.

Update your look with a new hairstyle.

Switching up your hairstyle can give you a whole new vibe. Some styles, like blunt bangs and ponytails, can make you look younger. To look older, opt for a side-swept fringe or use a curling iron to create loose, carefree waves instead of putting your hair up, if your hair is too short add different clips or DIY it. You can also try looks like: Flat ironing your hair for a smooth, polished look. Wispy, 70s-inspired bangs instead of short, blunt bangs. Edgy, spiky styles or deep side parts for short hair.

Experiment with makeup looks.

Natural-looking makeup looks more youthful than heavy makeup. For example, darker lashes that contrast a bit with your hair color can make you look slightly older, so try applying a thin coat of brown or black mascara to your your top lashes only. You can also: Curl your lashes if you’re not ready to wear mascara yet (or if your parents won’t allow it). Your lashes will look way longer, which emphasizes your eyes. Skip heavy foundation and use a tinted moisturizer instead. Just spread it all over your face with your fingers like regular lotion! Swipe on a little clear or tinted lip gloss. A pretty rose tint can enhance your features.

Stand tall and sit up straight.

Good posture makes you look confident and mature. Lift your chin a bit, roll your shoulder back slightly, and keep your back straight so you look confident and strong. When you’re standing and sitting, try to remind yourself not to slump or hunch your shoulders.