10 Unexpected Style Mistakes You're Making As A Millennial
As millennial women, we’ve truly been through the wringer when it comes to being criticized for our appearance! We had to survive the 90s and early 2000s glorification of thinness. (Just watch one episode of America’s Next Top Model from that time period and you’ll understand!)
And now fast forward to today and our fashion choices are mocked left and right by Gen Z on the internet daily. Plus, with a society obsessed with looking youthful, we have this constant pressure to keep our bodies in shape and wrinkle-free.
So I write this blog post today to let you know this is not about fashion rules at all. It’s about feeling confident, leaning into your personal style, redefining our definition of beauty and style.
So let’s get into the top 10 style mistakes you’re making as a millennial, and get you dressing to become your best self!
The Top 10 Style Mistakes You’re Making as a Millennial (& How to Fix Them!)
1. Not Embracing Your Body Type
❌ Mistake: Trying to force yourself into trends that don’t suit your body shape.
✅ Fix: Instead of dressing for a trend, dress for what makes you feel confident. Find silhouettes that highlight your best features and invest in staple pieces that flatter your shape and make you feel amazing.
2. Following Gen Z Trends Just Because They Said So
❌ Mistake: Feeling pressured to adopt every new TikTok trend (ultra-baggy pants, ballet flats, indie sleaze revival).
✅ Fix: Instead of chasing every passing trend, curate a wardrobe that feels true to you. Pick and choose the trends that enhance your personal style while keeping your classic millennial favorites. Ankle socks, skinny jeans, side parts can stay!
3. Thinking You Have to Dress “Young” to Stay Stylish
❌ Mistake: Assuming that dressing stylish means looking like you did at 21.
✅ Fix: Great style isn’t about looking younger—it’s about looking effortlessly put-together. Focus on elevated basics, well-fitted pieces, and quality fabrics that make you look polished at any age.
4. Avoiding Basics Because They Seem Boring
❌ Mistake: Thinking that basics (white tees, blazers, structured denim) are too simple.
✅ Fix: The best-dressed people master the art of styling basics. A great pair of jeans and a classic trench coat can look effortlessly chic with the right accessories—don’t underestimate the power of simple, well-made pieces!
5. Letting Society Tell You What You “Should” Wear at Your Age
❌ Mistake: Feeling like you have to dress a certain way because of your age ("No more crop tops at 30!").
✅ Fix: The only rule is to wear what makes you feel great. Love bold colors? Rock them. Prefer a timeless neutral palette? Own it. Style has no expiration date!
6. Holding Onto Fast Fashion Pieces That No Longer Serve You
❌ Mistake: Holding onto trendy, low-quality pieces that fall apart after a few wears.
✅ Fix: Invest in quality over quantity. Transition to timeless staples that will last years instead of fast-fashion buys that only last a season.
7. Neglecting Accessories That Can Elevate Any Outfit
❌ Mistake: Wearing the same minimal pieces every day without experimenting.
✅ Fix: Accessories are an instant outfit upgrade! A bold handbag, statement earrings, or even a structured belt can transform a simple look into something polished and intentional.
8. Forgetting That Comfort and Style Can Coexist
❌ Mistake: Assuming that looking stylish means wearing uncomfortable clothes.
✅ Fix: You don’t have to suffer for fashion. Invest in high-quality, well-fitting pieces that feel just as good as they look—think tailored wide-leg pants, elevated knitwear, and stylish sneakers.
9. Thinking You Have to Follow a Single “Aesthetic”
❌ Mistake: Feeling like you need to choose between “minimalist,” “boho,” “edgy,” etc.
✅ Fix: Your style can evolve daily. You can wear tailored neutrals one day and an edgy leather jacket the next. Mix and match styles to create a wardrobe that reflects every side of your personality.
10. Not Dressing for Your Own Happiness
❌ Mistake: Prioritizing what’s “in” over what actually makes you feel amazing.
✅ Fix: The best style choice you can make? Wear what makes YOU feel confident, comfortable, and happy. Fashion is about expressing yourself! Not impressing others.
If you learned one thing from this list it’s that millennial style isn’t about trends, rules, or age! It’s about feeling confident in what you wear. I encourage you to have fun with fashion, experiment, and embrace your evolving style.
Remember that fashion is personal, so ditch the pressure and wear what makes you happy!
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