Style Rules and Fashion Trends Women Over 50 Should Master
Follow along for style rules and fashion trends all women over 50 should master.
I’ll share practical and empowering tips to help you feel comfortable, wherever you are on your fashion journey.
Once you learn these fashion rules, you can confidently create your own personal style (and bend the rules, if it suits you!)
1. Dress for your body, not your age
Once, “dressing for your age” was acceptable. But luckily for us, style influencers are embracing an anti-ageism approach to fashion.
When you free yourself from ageist dogmas, you are free to show off what you’ve got!
Ultimately, your priority should be finding styles that flatter and fit you, rather than adhering to social norms.
2. Try it on
Trying on clothes before buying is an excellent way to avoid a cluttered wardrobe. It also helps prevent decision making fatigue when compiling your outfits. Keep in mind that clothes look different on the hanger.
3. Wear the right length for your shoes
A common mistake is not wearing the right length pants for your shoes. To fix this, hem for either flats or heels. Keep in mind that acceptable hems tend to be a little longer than in the past, for a chiller look.
Avoid hems right at the ankle. This cuts your leg at a point that isn’t flattering for most people (except for those who are very tall). Either pull the pants up and roll the hem slightly or hem them around the calf.
4. Accessorize with brights
This is my favorite tip, especially if you have a closet full of neutrals, like black, navy, beige and gray. Add energy with boldly hued shoes and bags. Try wearing a neutral base with shoes and a bag in 2 different, complimentary colors.
5. Check the rise
The rise refers to the distance from the top of the waistband to the seam where the crotch meets the legs of the pants.
This typically ranges from 7-12”.
The rise is important because it determines where your pants will sit, creating a perceived waistline. It’s also something that’s not easily altered, so be sure your pants are neither too snug or too droopy in this area.
When you choose the right rise for your body’s dimensions, you’ll appear taller and more polished.
If you’re below average height or have shorter legs, it’s not recommended to buy low rise pants.
If you have a short torso, a high waistband can make you appear taller and slimmer. This can suit a curvier body as well. Mid rise tends to work well for many body types, especially those with slender, petite figures.
For me, a low rise is a no-no. Below, the pink waistband elongates my legs and is on the verge of being too high. The jeans are a regular high rise and a perfect fit for me.
The midrise, combined with the wrong length, shortens my legs.
6. Mixing contrasting elements
The true magic of style lies in the ability to juxtapose unexpected elements and create unique outfits that tell a story.
Here, for example, a statement skirt finds companionship with a structured blazer:
The rigidness of a leather jacket can balance out a delicate, silk blouse:
A flowing maxi skirt combined with a cinched belt balances comfort and structure:
Similarly, a fitted top juxtaposed with wide leg pants radiates chicness and confidence:
The key is to harmonize contrasting elements to create a cohesive ensemble that captures attention.
7. Know how to employ the finishing touches
Every outfit should feel complete. Achieving the perfect balance requires harmony and moderation. For example, you can pair a chunky bracelet with delicate earrings:
Or cinch a fabulous dress with a belt without overpowering the ensemble:
Let an amazing item shine by simplifying the rest of the outfit. To achieve this you have to keep the other elements of the outfit basic.
8. Bonus tip: Show some skin
Keep it elegant by balancing cropped pieces with longer pieces underneath.
The same goes for seductive, high slit skirts – wearing it with a high neck and long sleeves will make for a stylish combination.
9. Balance and proportions
If you have an oversized piece on top, keep the bottom sleek and simple:
If you’re sporting a fuller silhouette below, try pairing this with a basic, bodycon piece on top:
Finally, no outfit is complete without a signature scent! A clean, pleasant fragrance or perfume can make you feel fabulous, elegant and confident.
Just follow some basic rules: never let your perfume arrive before you. Apply perfume at your pulse points and never rub it in. Always start with a small amount.
Style rules
In a world where trends constantly change, these principles are pillars of consistency, reminding us that true style transcends fads.
Let me know in the comments which of these style rules was the most useful for you.
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