As we age, fashion can be a great way to express ourselves and show off our personal style. But it’s important to keep in mind that fashion for women over 50 is different than fashion for younger women. It requires clothing items that are both stylish and comfortable so you look your best without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re ready to take a few risks on some eye-catching items or opt for less adventurous staples, we’ve got five must-have wardrobe items every woman over 50 needs to up her style game. Here are five must-have wardrobe items every woman over 50 needs in her closet!
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What is fashion for women over 50 mean?
Despite what an online search might have you believe, your over-50 wardrobe does NOT have to be dull, unflattering, or outdated! The key to nailing fashion when you’re over 50 is to look past the youthful trends in fashion articles and store displays. Like a treasure hunt, you seek pieces that will flatter you and best express your style personality.
Fashion for women over 50 is less about your clothing and more about you. You are not just wearing the latest style; your clothing expresses who you are. Which means you have the freedom to decide: how do I want to show up?
How to pick flattering items that fit your body type
Finding clothes that flatter your body type can be tricky. With the right knowledge, though, you can easily select clothing that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
- Start by knowing how to dress your body shape.
Become familiar with the types of clothing that flatter you.
- Should you highlight your waist?
- Downplay your hips or accentuate your legs?
- Will a particular neckline broaden your shoulders or minimize ‘the girls’?
With this knowledge about yourself, seek out styles that look good on you. Find shapes and colors that flatter you, fabrics and styles you feel comfortable in, and pieces that are formal enough or casual enough for your daily life. Only buy clothes you love; don’t buy an ‘okay’ piece just because it’s on sale.
- Make sure your clothes are the right size.
When we’re over 50, we may find that our body size and shape have changed. Don’t hide inside clothes that are too big. Learn how to flatter your new silhouette. You can waste months, even years of your life, being invisible while waiting to ‘get in shape’.
- Emphasize your best features.
Can you list your three best features? Often we fixate on an area of our body we dislike, thinking that our large feet, short torso, or curvy derriere are the first thing everyone notices. Determine your best features (ask a friend if you need help) and focus on accentuating those in your outfits.
- Choose quality.
As you become less distracted by trends, your clothes will serve you longer. If it’s a style you love and will frequently wear, invest in quality. It’s easier for you and better for the planet to have a core of go-to pieces in your closet when building your outfits.
Classic pieces to add style and versatility
Fashion publications regularly publish lists of classic pieces that a stylish woman should own. These lists typically include items such as a structured blazer, trench coat, little black dress, and white blouse.
Do these lists feel out of step with your lifestyle? Especially with fashion for women over 50?
Then, repeat after me, “It’s not a classic if I won’t wear it.”
Don’t buy a white cotton shirt if you hate to iron or a trench coat if you love all things bohemian. Create your own list of classics!
The 5 Categories you need in your wardrobe
Starting with these five categories, personalize your list using pieces that fit your body shape and complement your style.
- Neutral bottoms: Many lists start with black trousers, but your go-to might be navy, cream, or white. Do you prefer wide leg, straight leg, or ankle length? Or perhaps skirts? Your classic is going to be the bottom half of an outfit that can be assembled quickly and is versatile enough for various occasions.
- Layering tops: Your list should include tops that pair with your bottoms to create a neutral backdrop for the statement piece in your outfit. These will typically be solids or small-pattern prints. They can be in a neutral color like black/white/cream/gray or a color that supports the statement piece.
- Denim: Just like the music of the ’60s and 70’s that our parents thought wouldn’t last, denim is now a classic. Put it to work in your wardrobe. Find brands and styles of jeans that flatter you. Include a mix of dark wash, light wash, and white denim, depending on the season, the occasion, and your mood. Expand your denim wardrobe to include jackets, shirts, and skirts.
- Statement pieces: Every outfit should have a ‘hero’ piece, a standout item that makes a bold statement and elevates your overall look. Your statement piece can be a stylish jacket, brightly patterned blouse, colorful scarf, eye-catching shoes, fun sunglasses, or a bold necklace. Let it be the star of your outfit while keeping your supporting pieces (bottoms, tops, accessories) simple and understated.
- Something new or trending: To keep your wardrobe fresh, add something new each season. Not every trend will be for you, and that’s okay! Look for one or two items that complement what you have or fill gaps. Is there a style this season that you love: wide-leg trousers, short jackets, or a particular color? Trends are a great way to add fresh pieces to your wardrobe in silhouettes that aren’t always easy to find.
Tips for accessorizing the right way: fashion for women over 50
Accessories can make or break your look. Don’t let your shoes, jewelry, and handbag be afterthoughts on the way out the door!
Choose accessories that are in proportion to your body and clothing, such as smaller earrings for a petite frame or larger statement pieces for a taller frame.
When keeping fashion for women over 50 in mind, accessories should complement and not overpower your clothing.
Shoes, in particular, can be too ‘sensible’—take the time to find flattering shoes that are comfortable but not frumpy.
The #1 fashion tip for every woman over 50
Fashion over 50 can be rewarding and fun if you follow this one tip:
Make your own rules!
You’ve spent much of your life listening to someone else’s advice. Now it’s your turn to pick what you want to wear and how you want to show up. Stop waiting for your body or your life to change. Determine what works for you NOW, and enjoy getting dressed!
Enjoy other articles about fashion for women over 50:
- Spring Into Style After 50: How to Transition Your Wardrobe for Warmer Weather
- 5 Ways to Make Better Fashion Choices From a Wardrobe Stylist
- 5 Notable Wardrobe Items Every Woman Over 50 Requires in Her Closet
- How to Create a Travel Capsule Wardrobe
- How To Dress For Your Age: Everyday Style Tips For Women Over 50
