<!–
–>
I’m not gonna lie: Dressing in your 20s is tricky. It is when you make the most mistakes with colors and patterns. It is also the time when you can wear pretty much anything you want – the time to experiment with trends before having to stick to “grown up” workwear most waking hours. You tend to forget that you won’t be 25 forever and that some outfits won’t always look cool on you.
In the spirit of making the most of your youth, try these looks now if you haven’t. Work out what looks good on you!
1. Spaghetti-Strap Dress with Ruffled Hem from chuu
It is hard to pull off the skimpier spaghetti-strap dress without looking underdressed or overexposed. There is no time like the present to try out this carefree look, for it is very much in trend now. The ruffled hem and midi length of this one add sophisticated details, making it a sexier alternative to average day dresses. Layer over an oversized sweater when the temps drop.
2. Crop Top with Cold Shoulders from Dabuwawa
The crop top trend is not going anywhere anytime soon, but I believe belly-flaunting plus shoulder-baring is socially acceptable as a day look only when you’re in your 20s. Keep the rest of the look more covered up with pants or a midi skirt for a sophisticated feel.
3. Short Shorts from Chlo.D.Manon
Ditto as the crop top, very short shorts are wearable beyond the festival season only when you’re in your 20s! I love the excessive fraying and fitted cut of this pair. Just keep it classy and effortless with a loose sweatshirt and sneakers.
4. Distressed Jeans from CHICFOX
Likewise, it is harder to pull off that “loungey not sloppy” look in distressed denims later in life. Counter the rips with a crisp blouse and heels.
5. Floral Maxi Wide Leg Pants from Richcoco
Wide leg pants are so easy and much more fun to style than my usual black skinny jeans, and they work for essentially every occasion when styled right. As we dig out those cozy (and at times boring) sweaters for fall, these billowing bottoms featuring cute ditsy florals are perfect for enlivening the look.
6. Rib-Knit Pinafore Dress from TriStyle
Just when I thought retro was already at its peak, this hybrid of overalls and rib-knit dress arrives, giving my summer tees a much-needed fall overhaul with simple layering. I love it with off-the-shoulder tops especially. You’ll get a lot of use out of this style.
7. Faded Wash Denim Overalls from ssongbyssong
As with all the other pieces on this list, overalls can start to look like you’re trying too hard after a certain age. But you can still own the style when you’re 20-something. Finish with sophisticated separates like a crisp collared blouse and loafers.
8. Jeans-Style Leggings from CHICFOX
The first years in the workforce are the time to get away with jeans at the office. This sleek pair makes you feel polished 9-to-5 when paired with a light blazer and chiffon blouse. For the cooler months ahead, wear with ankle boots for a semi-formal look.
9. Maxi Ribbed Cardigan from DABAGIRL
Maxi length is the modern treatment to a cozy cardigan. Whether with skinny pants, edgy skirts or lazy tunics, the longline layer screams off-duty chic. Let it drape and flow behind you for a dramatic sweep. Belting it with a short dress is also worth trying.
10. Over-The-Knee Boots from CITTA
When tastefully styled, these statement boots can accompany you well beyond your 20s, but there is no better time to try them out than now. Be sure you’re well covered on top and keep accessories to a minimum.