From The Straits Times    |

what to wear when you hit 30

Photo: sheila_sim/Instagram

Your 20s are a period when you feel invincible — you can do anything and wear anything with little consequences; after all you can just chalk it all up to #Yolo. But the years have whizzed by and suddenly, you find yourself in the realm of the 30s, knee-deep in #adulting with important responsibilities and decisions to make.

It goes without saying that this is the time you’d have to leave your 20s fashion behind. Still, it doesn’t mean you’d have to make the transition from youthful to snooze-worthy fashion. Here are some tips from us that will allow you to avoid fashion faux pas and emerge from the new era stylishly.

 

YAY: Elegant sundresses

NAY: Tight bodycon dresses

We’ve all owned one at one point in our lives. The bodycon is a perfect party outfit, especially when you want to flaunt your curves loud and proud. But now is the time to project a more classy elegance. We say go for breezy sundresses that reveal an enticing bit of skin, such as your back or your collarbone. It’s way sexier that way.

 

YAY: Pencil skirts

NAY: Micro mini-skirts

We do love a short hem. Still, donning too tiny a skirt puts you at risk of revealing more than you should (no one wants to see them butt cheeks!). Instead, go for decent lengths like a pencil skirt — it’s stylish and multi-occasion, allowing you to dress up and dress down as you see fit. Go for skirts with cool details like checkered or leopard prints to avoid looking prudish.

 

ALSO READ: FASHION MASTERCLASS PART 1 OF 3: HOW TO SHOP BETTER FOR SECOND-HAND DESIGNER GOODS

 

YAY: Simple necklaces

NAY: Too much layering of chunky accessories

Remember those days when you would throw on multiple necklaces like cross rosaries and faux pearl chains for a grunge effect? Ditch that. Instead, remember that it’s quality over quantity. Choose just one statement piece — it’s enough to transform your outfit from drab to fab. If you must layer, it’ll only work if you go for dainty chains. Keep it to two pieces max, and make sure the rest of your look is minimal.

 

YAY: Comfortable yet chic heels

NAY: Sky high stilettos 

We know the mantra “The higher the heel, the closer to god” gives you a perfect excuse to purchase that pair of impossibly high platform heels. But you’re no longer at an age where you can afford to forgo comfort just to make a statement. We’re not asking you to bid farewell to style either. Go for a pair of classic pointed-toe pumps in suede: It’s something that lasts forever. Or opt for a pair of sleek sandals. Your feet will thank you for it.

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YAY: A leather jacket

NAY: A faux leather jacket

Faux leather jackets are for 20-somethings looking for a bit of edge without wanting to splash out too much. But while these pieces are good for the moment, you get what you pay for — they wear out and start peeling pretty quickly, especially in our humid weather. It’s high time you invest in a solid piece that will last you a good number of years (provided you take care of it). Trust us, it’s a worthwhile wardrobe staple.

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ALSO READ: FASHION MASTERCLASS PART 2 OF 3: HOW TO GET THE BEST BESPOKE JEWELLERY