40+ Fashion Mistakes That Are Making You Look Like a Frumpy Mom

Yoga pants, jeggings, and leggings. For some, this is a staple part of their wardrobe but should be ditched completely. Leggings scream “lazy” and seem to be the first thing many women grab when they’re getting ready in the morning.

We get it, leggings are comfortable, but they do nothing to help you look well put together and often just end up making you look frumpy.

Stripes will always be on trend, but be careful about the type of stripes you choose. Vertical lines will help you look taller and slimmer and should be opted for over horizontal stripes. For those that carry a little bit extra in the tummy, horizontal stripes only make you look wider and shorter and are unflattering at best.

Never wear stripes on stripes; consider a monochromatic color scheme if you want to wear stripes well. All we can say about stripes on stripes is that it’s an attack on the senses. Avoid!

A fussy hairdo requires more time to manage than most of us have. While we’re not saying get a boring cut, a more complicated hairdo can take the time you don’t have when getting everybody ready in the morning.

As pretty as these hairdos can look, they can be somewhat impractical. Rather go for a simple cut that flatters your face and complements your style and personality.

Low-waisted jeans might have been hot in the early 2000s, but most stores and designers go for high-waisted jeans. Let’s be real, we all need a bit of a lift as we age, and that’s exactly what a good, tailored pair of high-waisted jeans can do for you.

There’s nothing bad we can say about high-waisted jeans. And the best part? High-waisted jeans can also hide that mommy-tummy.

Thanks to Gen Z and their fashion influence, skinny jeans are a thing of the past, and many women are opting for regular cuts or mom jeans instead.

Millennials everywhere shed a tear when skinny jeans were added to the no-go list of clothes you should wear. Choose a flattering cut in a regular fit, and make sure those babies are high-waisted too.

The name ‘underwear’ gives an apt description of where you should be wearing it; UNDER your clothes. If you prefer thongs, that’s perfectly fine, but ensure you don’t let them peek out from your pants.

While this was considered a “look” in the 90s, it’s a big no-no nowadays, and it’s considered trashy to show off your thong. Unless you’re Britney Spears in the early 2000s or have a part-time job at the local gentleman’s club, choose underwear that has a good fit, and ensure that it stays under your clothes at all times.

As a mom, you spend much of your time rushing around getting kids to school, taking care of the chores, and running errands. It’s so easy to throw on a baggy t-shirt or hoodie with your leggings for comfort, but this is the easiest way to look frumpy.

There’s a time for baggy clothes, like when you’re attending your child’s sporting match and are wearing a supporters jersey, or on those winter weekends spent indoors playing board games with the family.

Maxi dresses are great for hiding those unflattering bits on a hot day but can quickly make you look frumpy if the dress doesn’t have a flattering cut or has a large, loud print. If you love a good maxi dress and can’t see yourself going without one, choose a dress in a plain color and avoid prints and textures that could make it seem too busy.

Add shape to your maxi dress by cinching in the waist with a belt, and remember to cover those bra straps or wear a strapless bra.

You rarely find a pair of jeans or any other garment that fits you like it was made for you. Tailoring your clothes to suit your body is a great way to look more put-together and like you take time to choose your clothes.

Ask friends and family for advice on a tailor they would recommend and consider getting your clothes altered to avoid an unflattering look. There’s nothing more annoying than a pair of jeans that’s just too long for your legs.

Sneakers are great for comfort, but if worn incorrectly, they can quickly make even the most stylish outfit look casual and frumpy. Paired with jeans and a hoodie or sweater, sneakers are the go-to for many women, but even sneakers should be chosen with care.

Wear sneakers on the days you’ll be on your feet, like when buying groceries and running errands. Pumps are a great alternative to sneakers. They’re comfortable and add subtle glamor to any outfit.

Nothing’s worse than wearing an ill-fitting bra under a fitted t-shirt or sweater. If you’ve never been measured for the correct bra, you need to get it done soon. A well-fitted bra can change up your whole look.

Say goodbye to your boobs spilling out of your bra or riding up and causing those horrible lines on your back, and get measured today. Most lingerie and department stores offer this service for free.

Designer clothes are great for a spoil and a special occasion. But if you wear your Gucci jeans with a Louis Vuitton shirt or head-to-toe designer clothes to do the school pick-up, you might be overdoing it a bit.

Pair your designer clothes with comfortable classics to tone down the look a bit, and use accessories to spice up your outfit. Save your designer clothes for when you need a pick-me-up or are going to dinner with your partner.

Keeping on trend with ever-changing fashion trends can be tricky and cost you a ton of money. Buy key pieces, and pair them with your everyday essentials like jeans or a good pair of fitted trousers to bring a bit of glam to your outfit.

Wearing all-new trends always has the opposite effect of looking stylish and could convey a rather different message that you’re trying too hard.

Opening your closet in the morning and choosing an outfit shouldn’t cause panic. Rather than buying clothes for the sake of having something new, invest in a few classic items that you can mix and match to look good and feel comfortable.

Pinterest, fashion blogs, and even fashion magazines are great sources of inspiration when choosing items for a capsule wardrobe. Research, learn how to put different outfits together, and focus on the basics.

Neons, shirts with rips and cuts, and pants that are too short or skin-tight will certainly gain attention, but perhaps not the attention you want or need.

Nothing shouts “mutton dressed as lamb” more than a bright outfit or clothes that are designed for the younger generation. Sure they’re not frumpy, but you should be dressing for your age.

Dropping your kids off at school? A pair of jeans, a classic white t-shirt and a pair of pumps are perfect. Meeting with the principal or a meeting with the boss? A more put-together look of a pair of black trousers and a white button-up shirt would be more appropriate.

Dress for the occasion. Nothing’s worse than being over (or under) dressed for any occasion. Consider where you’re going, who you’re seeing, and the kind of impression you want to give when choosing your outfit.

Fashion trends are fleeting. What’s considered on trend today can be outdated tomorrow. Buying clothes that are on trend is dangerous, and so is wearing clothes that aren’t on trend. This sounds complicated, but you can make sure you put your best fashion foot forward and invest in classic items, rather than those on the hot lists right now.

Jeans, blazers, t-shirts, and button-ups are always trendy and can be glammed up or worn for a casual look based on the occasion.

Another ‘lamb dressed as a mutton’ fashion piece, the crop top isn’t designed for the older generation. Sure, crop tops are great for the gym, but nothing screams “young” like wearing a crop top with jeans to the grocery store.

Leave the crop tops to the youngsters, and focus on tailored, well-fitted clothing that gives you an elegant and well-put-together look.

Matching mommy-and-me outfits are super cute, and many designers keep this in mind when designing clothes. Many stores sell the same outfit in both adult and kids sizes, allowing you to dress up to match your little one.

What’s not cute is matching your partner. We’re not talking about wearing the same colored top or sweater, but head-to-toe matching looks gross and can make you look old way before your time.

Summer can be brutal, and the temptation to wear as little as possible to keep cool increases when the temperatures rise. You can look great while staying cool by wearing light fabrics and textures.

No one wants to see the bottom of your bum cheeks peeking out from under your shorts, so always try on the shorts before you buy them. Skirts are great for beating the heat and are available in various lengths, styles, and fabrics.

Choosing comfortable footwear that still looks great is a challenge we have all faced at one time or another. Winter brings snow and is a time when many women look for warm, comfy footwear that will help protect them from the elements.

Ladies, we’re here to tell you that Ugg or Sherpa boots are a no-no and should only be worn around the house! Invest in a good quality pair of leather boots and rock the cold in style.

Your choice of clothes says a lot about your personality. If you’re quirky and want to bring that across into your wardrobe, do so with subtlety. Light, bright colors, and designs might be your thing, but remember to tone it down and focus on one bright or loud piece at a time.

Jewelry is a great way to add that extra spice to your outfit and can reflect a bit more of your personality and style with a few statement pieces.

Bronzed skin is great when you go to the beach for a vacation or have a special occasion that you want to look amazing for. Unfortunately, many turn to self-tan products in a bid to achieve that bronze glow.

Using makeup and watching a few online tutorials can help you achieve a natural bronzed look without the need for messy self-tans that make you look more like a carrot than a bronze goddess.

One of the biggest problems with mom jeans is how to style them to avoid looking frumpy. With mom jeans on the hot list this year, many fashion bloggers, influencers, and fashion magazines have tips on how to style your mom jeans correctly.

Look for ideas on Pinterest, and rock your mom jeans the right way. Who says you can’t be comfortable while also looking stylish?!

Learning to do our makeup correctly is one of the easiest ways to look great, regardless of age. Rather than piling on the products, use only the products you need, and adapt your makeup to suit the occasion.

Makeup is used to ENHANCE your features and shouldn’t look like you’re trying to change your natural appearance.

Capri’s are not the most flattering pants on earth. Depending on where they end, they can make your calves look enormous and also add unnecessary weight to the thigh area.

Rather opt for a great pair of fitted pants in a ¾ length, or wear culottes if you don’t want to do long pants.

Pastels are one of the most feminine colors you can wear, but they can also age you significantly. Choose one pastel piece and pair it with fun accessories rather than an outfit of head-to-toe pastels.

A pastel camisole under a dark blazer or jacket can add a hint of color and femininity to your outfit.

A great way to keep your neck warm without the added layers that a scarf adds to your outfit is by wearing a polo neck or turtleneck, depending on where you’re from. But choose your polo neck carefully. Large cowl-necked sweaters are great for any age, and so too are thicker chunky polo necks.

Avoid slim polo necks that end up looking like they’re too tight and enhance those frown lines on your face. While they help hide wrinkles in the neck area, they have a habit of highlighting the rest.

Buying cheaper clothes might seem like a good idea, but it can cost you more as the need to replace them more often increases. Invest in good-quality pieces that’ll last you for a few seasons.

Great classics include a good pair of jeans, black sweaters, a blazer, a white button-up shirt, and a great handbag or purse.

Those in-between days where the sun is out and the air is cool are hard to dress for. Many women tend to grab a cardi to wear over their t-shirt or shirt. Cardigans are considered outdated and old-fashioned and would be better worn by your granny.

A lightweight jacket or blazer in a neutral color can keep you warm while not too heavy and add instant glam to your look, depending on how you style it.

College sweaters will always be popular, but be careful how you style them and what you wear them with. A logo sweater with matching track pants might seem like a great outfit for a Saturday morning running errands, but this is the easiest and most common way to look frumpy in an instant.

Pair your baggy sweater with a pair of jeans or shorts, and yes, even leggings. Wear a contrasting color to avoid looking like a piece of fruit, and remember to keep your shoes casual.

If you don’t have a belt in your closet, you must rush out and get one. Belts are no longer used just to keep your pants up but can be used to cinch your waist when wearing a dress or even as a tie to add more shape to an oversized cardi.

Keep it neutral and purchase classic blacks and tans that can be used on any outfit you own.

We all have that pair of jeans that we keep at the back of our closet for “when we lose weight.” This can be a good motivator to get you to the gym or eat healthily, but it’s a waste of money.

Buy clothes that are the right size for you, and always try any item in the store before purchasing. Sizes of clothes are not the same at all stores, and a six at one store could fit like an eight from another.

While the 80s were great and saw some of the brightest makeup looks, dark shadows and bright lipsticks should be kept in the 80s where they belong.

Choosing neutral shades that complement your skin tone and eye color can do more for you than a bright eyeshadow that’ll clash with your look. Lipstick is also tricky to match, and neutrals are the best shades for any outfit.

Hair trends change as quickly as fashion trends do. Do you remember the big hair from the 80s? More modern hair trends focus on sleek cuts that are easy to manage and style.

Choose a hairstyle that’ll flatter your face shape and get a more age-appropriate cut. Skip the perm and opt for a long-bob instead.

Florals are one of the most feminine prints, but choosing the wrong florals can drastically change your look and make you appear frumpy and older than you are.

Avoid floral prints that look like your granny’s curtains, and say hello to small floral prints like daisies or tropical flowers to add pizzazz to your outfit. Pick one flower and go with it, rather than choosing a too-busy design.

Yoga pants are another firm favorite for many women and are great for the gym. But that’s where they belong… in the gym. Yoga pants might seem comfortable but can become a bit of an eyesore when they cause that dreaded camel toe that generally comes with wearing them.

Pairing yoga pants with a thong only makes matters worse and should be avoided completely. Keep your yoga pants for when you do yoga, and rather choose a pair of comfortable pants in a more flattering fabric.

The right accessories can change up and add glamor to any outfit. But beware of large statement pieces that can be too overpowering. If you’re wearing small earrings, a larger necklace will balance out the look, but be careful of wearing large earrings and a large necklace simultaneously.

Choose your accessories wisely and select those that highlight your outfit, rather than overpower it.

Highlighting your hair is a great way to add some tone and color, but it should always be done by someone who knows what they’re doing.

Large highlights look trashy and are generally the go-to style for “Karens.” Add subtle highlights and lowlights to your hair in a similar shade to bring depth and warmth to your hair.

In the “olden days,” stockings were considered classy and were worn with dresses and skirts to add elegance. But the younger generations have done away with sheer stockings, and many prefer a bare leg.

With some pigmented creams and lotions available, stockings are outdated and are no longer the go-to fashion accessory like it was when our grandparents were young.

One of the hardest makeup decisions is selecting the right color foundation for your skin tone. This is where speaking to a store assistant can help you make the best purchase decision. Foundation shouldn’t cover your freckles and other beauty marks and should only be used to hide blemishes and provide an even base for your makeup.

If you’re lucky enough to have clear, great-looking skin, you can skip the foundation completely and opt for a tinted moisturizer.

As you age, the need for glasses might increase. Choosing the right pair of glasses can be tricky as you try to match them with the style or look you’re going for. Choose glasses that accentuate your eyes, are not too bulky, and that can be worn daily with any outfit.

Glasses can be seen as a fashion accessory, so choose a pair you know will complement your overall look.

If you’re out and about and suddenly feel hot in your sweater, please don’t end up tying it around your waist. This is a great look for teens and skateboarders but can look frumpy and add bulk to your hips.

Rather, opt for a light jacket or sweater. Or choose layers that can be removed if necessary.

Choosing a purse is a big decision. Depending on your career, what you use a purse for, and the occasion, a purse can instantly make or break your outfit. Going to a cocktail function with your large mom-tote hanging off your shoulder can quickly take away from the elegance of your outfit.

So does a glamorous bag while out shopping for groceries. Invest in a quality neutral-colored bag for smarter events, and choose a larger bag with pockets and dividers for day-to-day use.

There’s a fine line between dressing too casual and too flashy or fussy. For stay-at-home moms, a pair of jeans and a jumper or white t-shirt is perfect for running errands, fetching the kids from school, and the all-too-familiar dreaded chore of cleaning the house. We all want to feel great when doing the same old thing every day, but nothing is worse than feeling restricted in your clothing and getting irritated with extra frills or fussing.

Avoid wearing clothes that have frills and over-fussy designs and will be uncomfortable to wear after an hour or two. Being a stay-at-home mom is an important job, and comfort is key when you’re racing from one errand to the next and driving your kids to all their extracurricular activities.