Stylists explain how millennials can get Gen Z fashion makeover

Stylists explain how millennials can get Gen Z fashion makeover

• Updating millennial outfits is a hot topic on social media - now stylists weigh in
• Read on for an easy swap for a denim jacket to the best way to try barrel jeans
• READ MORE: Do YOU dress like a millennial? TikTok breaks down the differences

Have you been wondering how you can ditch millennial outfits for cooler, Gen Z-approved trends this summer?

It's a hot topic on social media, as fashionistas like Sarah and Leah (better known as Two Scoops of Style) show easy swaps in their 'millennial outfit makeover' series.

Many millennials question if they should swap no-show socks for tube socks or burn their skinny jeans so they're not seen as 'cheugy,' or dated.

But even if you want a major wardrobe makeover, you probably don't want to spend big bucks shopping.

To find out how to upgrade your style and stay on-trend without looking too young, FEMAIL talked to stylists about easy swaps you can make, pairing them with items you already own.

Give your jeans a much-needed glow up

Skinny jeans are obviously a much-maligned denim option - but how do you give them up without feeling way too trendy?

Forty-something sisters-in-law Danielle and Rebecca Peplinski founded the online boutique Glow Fashion in Syracuse, New York, where they help women build capsule wardrobes tailored to their lifestyle.

The co-founders have worked with many millennials on updating their 'very dated' wardrobes, starting with denim.

Danielle and Rebecca are all for tossing jeggings, which are a 'tell-tale sign' of a millennial.

Instead, it's all about classic denim or wide-legged jeans.

South Florida-based denim expert said Ashley Catronio agreed, telling FEMAIL, 'Super stretch jeans need to exit the building.'

'The only reason I ever had them in rotation is when I was pregnant and couldn't give up my classic white tee and jeans safety net,' Ashley, who owns denim-focused boutique Room Eight Studio in Delray Beach, Florida, admitted.

'You are rarely seeing them in any style scenario,' Ashley advised.

One way to embrace newer trends, like barrel jeans, is by fully tucking a button-down or T-shirt and wearing it with a standard belt andmesh ballet flat.

For a night out on the town in a trendier, looser pair of pantaloons, Ashley is all for a silk camisole and a cropped cardigan.

And she said it's easy to start slowly.

For example, with a pair like the Dahlia from Citizens of Humanity, which has a tapered bottom but isn't too snug, or the Raw Hem Ayla from the same brand, which has been 'universally adored' at her boutique for its cropped wide leg.

Say goodbye to dated cut-off jean shorts

Another trend you'll want to avoid? Jessica Simpson-style Daisy Dukes, which are best left in the early aughts.

Danielle and Rebecca are all about a more relaxed fit when it comes to jean shorts, or jorts.

Shana Draugelis, founder and CEO of approachable style site The Mom Edit, told FEMAIL, 'I've been happily wearing short denim cut-offs since high-school, so the Gen Z jorts trend is… daunting.'

But that doesn't mean you have to buy a whole new outfit to pair with your new shorts.

'I've started thinking of jorts as something akin to a denim pencil skirt, and pairing them with slightly more refined pieces: kitten heels, a structured bag, a real top,' Shana said.

'The resulting look still feels like me, yet has been approved by my teenager, too.'

'That said if jorts still feels like a bridge too far, another solid swap for denim cut-offs are black, tailored shorts,' Shana advised.

Ditch your fitted denim jacket

As for every millennials beloved denim jacket, the stylists explain you don't have to burn it, because it can still be a staple - just in a different way.

It's time to give the staple a new life by trying out different shapes and colors.

Shana said, 'While I'll forever be grateful to my trusty denim jacket (thank you for your service, Joe's Jeans) denim jackets over dresses is another classic millennial look that's long overdue for an update.'

'Instead of a denim jacket, the easiest swap over dresses is an oversized bomber jacket,' Shana advised.

'It has the same sort of classic roots, but a much cooler vibe,' Shana continued.

Upgrade your go-to sundress

There's been a massive debate about what, exactly, 'sundress season' entails on social media, as men call for women to wear more milkmaid-style dresses that emphasize the waist and bust.

'The structured silhouette makes this wardrobe staple a one-stop-shop you'll be sure to wear time and time again.'

But whatever you do, don't pair it with a corked wedge shoe.

This one is best paired with chunky sandals or sneakers.

Bid goodbye to heels - it's all about sneakers

One simple way to avoid looking older? Your shoes.

Hailee is a huge fan of the Adidas Gazelle, which 'comes in an array of rich colors which elevates it from a traditional sneaker, but if you can only chose one I'd recommend my clients start with grey.'

'It also feels very European which I always love.

'If you are still wearing low ankle boots, you may want to reconsider a new style,' Danielle and Rebecca begged, offering a swap for a classic boot instead of booties.

'But if you are trying to blend in with Gen Z, opt for sneakers and wear them with just about everything.'

Trade your simple jewelry for loads of layers

It might not just be your outfits that are aging you - your jewelry could be out of date, too.

Guy Cohen, CMO of Keyzar Jewelry in New York City, told FEMAIL it's best to swap '90s chokers for layered necklaces for a more multi-dimensional look and ditching rose gold for good.

He also encouraged mixing metals, instead of adhering to outdated rules and exclusively wearing gold or silver.

Additionally, Guy said it's time to ditch the minimalist studs you've had in for years.

'Larger, eye-catching earrings, such as diamond crawlers, are more on-trend,' Guy announced.