Clothing update for a lady in late 20s?

Question

I'm gradually getting rid of some old clothes that I've had since my college days or possibly before (*blush*). I'm typically a t-shirt and jeans gal, but I don't want to make myself look too young. I'm about 5'8 and approximately 135 pounds. so I have a VERY long torso/back. I'm also small chested. Pant size, I'm generally an 8. I also have very short hair, which adds to my youthful appearance. I don't want to look any younger as I already find it annoying enough that people don't believe that I'm actually over 21.

What are some your recommendations on styles (and brands)for someone like me that's in a "in-between" stage of being out of college, yet not quite having a career just yet. I do have some basic career clothes, although that's also VERY limited...2-3 long skirts, a 2-3 blouses, onepair of docker's khaki pants, and a black interview suit.

I feel like I'm stuck in a rut and could really use the help.

Answer 1

The following stores are wonderful for twenty-somethings: New York & Co., Express, Ann Taylor Loft, Jcrew, and The Limited. All are great brands. Express and NY&C carry pants in tall if you so require. Look for modest-cut blouses that don't show too much off but still look cute and youthful. The stores I listed tend to run on the longer side for shirts so you could probably find something flattering for your body type. Basically look for styles that are classy but at the same time cute. It's a bit difficult to put into words, but I'll give you a few links to some styes that are cute and age-appropriate...

Tops - remember modest cuts, think sexy-sophisticated. Something like these:

http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=7593&N=1200005&pCategoryId=199&categoryId=204&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_204&defaultColorNameFromCategory=Black&defaultSizeTypeFromCategory=Misses
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=5159&N=1200004&pCategoryId=199&categoryId=201&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_201&defaultColorNameFromCategory=Copper%20Rose&defaultSizeTypeFromCategory=Misses
http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=8158&Nr=AND%28CAT_SALE_FLAG%3aY%29&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_272&N=1200056&Nty=1&categoryId=270&defaultColorNameFromCategory=Arabian%20Camel&defaultSizeTypeFromCategory=Misses

Dresses - again, think modest but still flirty and feminine.

http://www.anntaylorloft.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=4752&N=1200012&pCategoryId=199&categoryId=211&Ns=CATEGORY_SEQ_211&defaultColorNameFromCategory=Indigo&defaultSizeTypeFromCategory=Misses
http://www.jcrew.com/catalog/product.jhtml?id=prod84047387&catId=cat90226
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_15/602-9348021-4669414?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B000OR51DU

For pants, look for flattering bootcuts which emphasize curves without overdoing thm. Bootcuts flatter everyone and look great dressed up or casual. Dark was jeans are very in for fall and winter, so I would definitely suggest them.

Obviously you might not like all of the specific things I suggested, but just to give you an idea of what kind of styles would be both flattering and age appropriate. I'm 21 myself and I have a difficult time convincing anyone I'm over 16 and ready to go to law school so I definitely understand where you're coming from. I make up for my youthful appearance by maintaining a dressy-casual wardrobe. There's nothing wrong with jeans and tees, I love them too! Just make sure that when you buy them they aren't too big. Tees should be form fitting but not tight. Also if you wih to emphasize your bust, I would suggest tops with ruffles or other detailing around the neckline. It draws attention and can often make a small chest appear larger. Good luck and I hope you find some clothes that work for you!

Answer 2

You might want to try shopping at places like Express, New York & Company, J. Crew, Ann Taylor, and so on. Look for nice dresses that can be either worn out to dinner or parties. Also look for colorful skirts and maybe a camisole or sweater that can be worn with them. Since you like jeans, maybe find jeans in colors like black or dark blue, which look sophisticated and can be dressed up or down.

If your budget allows it, you may try upscale boutiques to find unique pieces to add to your wardrobe. Of course, department stores like Macy's always have a great selection.

As for shoes, ballet-style flats are in right now for women of all ages, and you can't go wrong with a nice pointy-toed shoe with a slight heel. For going out, try heels or boots...but if you're uncomfortable, shiny flats work too.

Answer 3

I really do enjoy using long skirts once in a while. They may be actually more comfortable than Jeans and not as hot to wear also.