Believe it or not, not every aging fashion item is near your face. We've discussed colors that can age you and a very specific shirt style that one editor (me) avoids after 30. But what about shoes? Sure, of what you wear every day, physically they're the farthest thing from your face, but the impact that they have on your outfit as a whole is significant. Below, we've pinpointed a few shoe styles we think have the highest look-aging potential, but that's not to say that you should flat-out stop wearing them if you love them. (This especially applies if you're wearing the shoes with something especially youthful like, say, denim cutoffs or a romper.) But in general, if you're in doubt, these five shoe styles are best avoided if you're seeking a more youthful look.
Read on to find out which shoes could be making you look older and then see and shop the styles we recommend wearing instead.
Trade Round-Toe Pumps for V-Neck Pumps
Round-toe pumps can feel a bit dated and "frumpy" with certain outfits. On the flip side, pointed-toe V-neck pumps look of the moment and cool.
Shop V-Neck Pumps:
Trade Wedges for Block-Heel Mules
While wedges are certainly having a moment right now, they're tricky to get right. A safer bet? Block-heel mules. They look good with everything—trust us.
Shop Block-Heel Mules:
Shop more sizes.
Related: A French Style Icon Says Wearing This Can Age You
Trade Brogues for Sneakers
Brogues have a tendency to look a bit clunky and serious unless you pair them with something light and fun, like a floral-print minidress. Sneakers, on the other hand, give an effortless, light quality to any outfit.
Shop Sneakers:
Trade Peep-Toe Heels for Ankle Boots
The reign of peep-toe heels has passed (for now, at least). Instead, we recommend continuing to invest in ankle boots—they'll always make jeans, trousers, skirts, and dresses look fresh.
Shop Ankle Boots:
Trade Footbed Sandals for Pool Slides
Sandals with footbeds are tricky to pull off, but on-trend pool slides lend a sporty, youthful feel to outfits both casual and polished.
Shop Pool Slides:
Next, find out which fashion items a celebrity stylist says are aging.
