Getting older is something we all go through; it’s perfectly normal. For whatever reason, some guys have certain views about what makes a lady appear “older.” That doesn’t imply they’re correct, and it certainly doesn’t mean anyone should alter to suit them. Still, it’s intriguing to hear what people have to say, especially when it’s about minor details that you may not have considered. It is not about harshly evaluating ourselves; rather, it is useful to understand how other individuals think.

At the end of the day, what matters most is how you feel about yourself. Being satisfied in your own skin is always preferable to striving to fit the expectations of others. But, if you’re wondering (and perhaps a little nosy like me), let’s look at the things that some men claim make women appear older than they actually are. Take it all with a grain of salt, because no one knows you better than yourself.

1. Dressing too safely. As women get older, they tend to dress more conservatively, which some men believe might age them more. For example, if you’re constantly wearing beige or hiding under overly baggy garments, you’ll appear older. There’s nothing wrong with being comfortable, but when costumes become more “practical” than personal, you may be underestimating yourself.

Clothing does not have to be tight or flamboyant to appear youthful; it simply needs to feel contemporary and fit properly. Even a pop of color or a stylish pair of jeans may make a difference. You do not have to follow every fashion trend, but don’t be scared to switch things up. Wearing what makes you feel good demonstrates confidence, which people notice quickly. How you hold yourself reflects how you feel about yourself. That is what truly makes someone seem vibrant—not their clothes, but the enthusiasm they exude.

2. Applying too much makeup. This is a common misconception among men: wearing excessive makeup makes women appear older. It’s amusing because many of us apply makeup to appear younger, not older. However, when foundation becomes cakey or creases form thin lines, it might bring attention to what we’re attempting to conceal. A research even discovered that when women wear too much makeup, people believe they are older. Isn’t that wild? Soft, natural makeup looks more youthful—think tinted moisturizer, mascara, and blush. To be honest, sometimes less is more. Of course, if you enjoy strong makeup, wear it! Just keep in mind that what we think looks wonderful may have the opposite effect. If you want a new look, keep the layers to a minimum and experiment with lighter tones.

3. Outdated or worn-out shoes. This startled me, yet several guys claimed that shoes create a big impression. It’s easy to ignore, especially if you’re more concerned with your clothes or hair. However, aged or clunky shoes appear to date the overall outfit. You don’t have to wear heels or anything expensive, but clean, well-maintained, and attractive shoes do make a difference. Even something as simple as white sneakers or ankle boots can completely transform your look. Shoes may bring everything together or detract from it. Some men even claim to detect when shoes are scuffed or out of place. So it may be worth inspecting the bottom of the wardrobe and replacing any pairs that are past their prime. Little things like that can have a big impact with little effort.

4. Holding on to an Old Hairstyle. Some guys state that one of the first things they notice is hair. Not necessarily color, but style. When someone has the same hairstyle for years, it might make them appear older—as if they’re stuck in time. It doesn’t matter whether you have short or long hair; it’s more about how contemporary or fresh your cut seems. Consider fashion: trends fluctuate, and a little tweak may go a long way. Layers, bangs, or even a side part may change the entire look. Hair grows, so you may experiment and see what works best for you right now—not what worked ten years ago. You don’t need a huge makeover, just a quick refresh. Plus, altering your hair can be enjoyable and make you feel completely new with little effort.