Fashionistas and friends, talking today about key pieces and trends in fashion for women of a certain age. Ways to remain stylish and self-confident over 50…heck, who am I fooling? In my case, over 60!!
Fabulous After 50: Key Pieces for Your Wardrobe
It is unfortunate that most women over 50 think that because of their age, they have to give up their stylish wardrobes and choose clothing that is more “age-appropriate”. But what is age-appropriate? It is possible to look effortlessly elegant, trendy and stylish. There are several age-defying styles out there with new trends coming up now and then. The imaginary dos and don’ts in clothing choices are getting blurred by the day. Thank goodness!! Therefore, women have a wide choice of what pieces make it into their wardrobe. Here are a few suggestions for a stylish wardrobe for 50+ women.
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This post was written in collaboration with Mary Johnson.
You can Never Go Wrong with Denim
Those denim pieces do not get old. Go for the dark wash, breathable ones with an elastic waist so that they do not come hard on your tummy. Some brands specialize in clothing for women over 40, like Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ) and also Levis. They have mommy jeans styles that look great on older women from hues to allowances and elastic waists. Drop your old versions and pick some of these new styles. Have never tried NYDJ jeans but I have my eye on some light wash NYDJ wide leg little numbers.
One of the pieces from the Get Your Pretty On fall 2019 capsule wardrobe that have enjoyed wearing most was the wide leg jeans that are trending again now. I found mine at Banana Republic, bought a dark wash and a lighter wash. Have paired them with booties, flats and tennies. Dressed them up and down. And PC really likes them.
Pastel Colors and Prints
When choosing colorful blouses and shirts, it is important to choose wisely, avoiding shades that are too light for your skin tone. When looking for tops, go for vibrant and classy prints that will make a statement but are still understated and elegant. At fashion stores like Luisaviaroma, there are many great brands that fit into this category, for example Gucci that is famous for its iconic prints. Some of the best prints and color choices include golden prints, bold yellows, polka dots, pleated clothing and embellished black.
Snakeskin, animal print and camouflage are still popular ‘neutrals’ that are fun-to-wear. All 3 made an appearance on the fall 2019 capsule wardrobe. My naturally introverted, librarian sensibilities struggled a bit with the suggestion of leopard print pants. But I tried on the leopard print Winnie pant from JCrew Factory and fell in serious like. Not quite love because I still felt a little timid wearing them the first time. Planning to wear them again soon.
Seeing a lot of Fair Isle and plaid among the patterned pieces on the winter 2019 capsule wardrobe shopping list. Discovered this Fair Isle sweater at Loft Outlet. The bright colors caught my eye. Tried it on with my Loft Outlet faux leather mini and promptly put it in my shopping cart!
While my sweater is bright, pastels are also big this season. Especially pink. I’ve seen lots of pink plaid. Maybe this winter, I can finally figure out a way to style the pink plaid pants I bought last year.
Long skirts and long dresses
After a certain age (some) legs are best covered, at least partially. However, this does not mean that you can’t look stylish. Play with maxi dresses, one-piece dresses, mid-length denim skirts and ankle-high little black dresses. During summer, you can go for floral prints to give you an edge in warm weather. Always go for dresses that drape around you, rather than clinging ones. However, always ensure that they are the right fit.
I debated over buying this H&M leopard midi-length pleated skirt. Tried it on but PC was not as impressed with it on me as I was. Ha!! Of course, trying it with the right top might have helped. Wound up going back to get it a few weeks later and buying a winter white beaded sweater to wear with it.
Tell me, what do you do when you really like a certain piece but your significant other does not? Do you buy it anyway?
Fitted Pants
Fitted pants give you a sleek and smart look. They flatter your figure, which makes you look super stylish. You can wear fitted pants with a wide range of tops that include silky blouses, T-shirts, jackets and cardigans. If you intend to shop online, have your tailor make measurements beforehand.
Because I am not working much, my fitted pants don’t get a lot of wear these days. Should break them out for church. The Express mid-rise ankle columnist pants look polished in a variety of colors and a wide range of sizes and lengths. And on sale right now, 50% off.
Complete the look with Cardigans and Scarfs
Cardigans, if styled correctly, are appropriate pieces for any outfit. They are a stylish option for keeping warm in the cold weather and cover your arms when wearing sleeveless tops or dresses. Therefore, you can wear them all-year-round with a wide assortment of clothing. Scarves complete the look by adding a touch of class and extra elegance in addition to keeping you warm.
Even my granddaughter Lucia is wearing cardigans this fall. Isn’t this pumpkin-colored open-front cardigan cute?
I have purchased a couple of new scarves this fall. This one below, more like a kerchief scarf, is small, and lighter weight. It ties neatly into a knot at my neck and is less bulk on my already bulky bust!! Cardigans are something I wear faithfully, long and short, button-up and open front, with and without pockets.
Go for Long or Mid-length Sleeves
Long sleeves hide the little imperfections on your arms and cover them during cool weather. Mid-length sleeves also look stylish as they give a voluminous look if you have slender hands. You can wear cardigans and boleros if your dress is sleeveless. I have a friend whose style trademark is the different sleeves on her beautiful blouses. They can add interest to an otherwise simple piece. Cold shoulder, off the shoulder, bell, cuffed, butterfly, angel, kimono sleeves.
This spring I worked hard on toning my arms and for the first time in quite awhile, I felt comfortable wearing sleeveless tops. Hope I can keep up the good work and do the same thing this coming year. This fall and now winter, I am so glad to see the turtleneck’s return to popularity. Funnel, mock and turtlenecks can be very flattering for women of a certain age. Me, included!!
One Last Look
This last outfit was one I wore to church. It features subtle pattern mixing with a kind of monochromatic color scheme. Loft Outlet faux leather skirt and textured tights, Express long-sleeve utility blouse, H&M black and white plaid blazer and black boots. The plaid blazer from the fall capsule wardrobe was a big hit with me.
Of all the blazers I considered, I thought the ones at H&M were the nicest for the money. Double-breasted, lined, and the fabric was the perfect weight for under $50.
Your Turn
No matter your age, you should always wear in a way that you feel confident or good in your skin. Do away with (quote quote) age-appropriate dressing and revitalize your looks with the tips discussed above. What’s your favorite suggestion?
Winter 2019 Capsule Wardrobe
And the Get Your Pretty On winter 2019 capsule wardrobe is the perfect way to try some of the new trends and add a little pizzazz to your existing cold weather pieces. Registration is now open.
Upon registering, you will receive immediate access to the following tools to update your winter wardrobe with time-honored faves and new trends:
● A capsule wardrobe shopping list of on trend items and classics basics (you’re free to shop where you want and spend as much or as little as you want!). SHOP YOUR CLOSET FIRST! You will discover new ways to wear perpetual favorites.
● Links to shop for recommended items online or in store (we’ve done the work for you by choosing items to suit every budget and body type and age group!) EVEN GRANDMAS CAN BE STYLISH!
● A beautifully designed printable outfit guide so you can hang it in your closet when you need inspiration. And a host of new Facebook fashionista friends to share your new looks with!!
Come play dress up with me!
Hugs and kisses,
em
Hello, Fashionable friend!
I’m grateful for all your style advice here…very helpful. I bought a basic white blouse after seeing you wear yours under sweaters…so much more refined!
I would love to try a wide leg or flare hem jean one of these days… I think it’s probably better for my shape than skinny jeans (thought I have gotten used to the cut on me by now).
Noticed that the winter capsule is happening. I haven’t connected with much of what I saw already, but may jump in for the whole year…will your code work for that?
Finally, to answer your question: Although he’s usually very supportive of my clothing experiments, there are a few trends Mr. does not love… Leopard being the main one. He’s pretty much gotten used to it…the only real line crosser is leopard pumps (which is ridiculous, btw). So…I just “save them” for non-Mr wearing. Dinosaur!
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Hey doll, I just bit the bullet and signed up for the whole year of style challenges. I have really enjoyed the fall and now, winter capsule wardrobe pieces. Winter had some carry-overs from fall, but Alison likes to do that so we have staples to build on. Lots of years, I pass on the winter challenge because we have such lame winters that I can wear fall clothes through spring. Well, at least through winter.
I think women are a whole lot more excited about the leopard and animal print trend than men are. Or at least, more than your husband and mine, because PC doesn’t like it either. Except the leopard heels. He did become a fan of those.
Nancy
I love all the pieces you’re wearing. Especially the blazer. I tend to not buy it when my partner doesn’t n like it. But…. I think that skirt is wonderful so I would buy it.
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you so much, Nancy. You understand how I felt when PC didn’t like the skirt on me. It was hard for me to be excited about it. But then I showed the pictures to some friends and they did like the skirt, so I went back and bought it!! Now to get all dressed up and try to persuade PC to like it, too.
Ruth Josey
These are great tips, Leslie! I still have things in my closet from 15 or 20 years ago and I’m still wearing them. So there. I don’t mind wearing shorter skirts because I know I can wear leggings or tights or tall boots and it’s just not as obvious that the skirt is a short one. Thanks so much for reminding me of The Columnist pants from Express. I love that style and they do come in long, too. I’m the same way you were about the printed pants. I keep flirting with them in the stores but have yet to pick up a pair. I’m going to try some on this weekend. Maybe. Probably. And I love the pleated leopard skirt. Maybe your hubby would have liked it more if you weren’t wearing black tights and shoes with it. Put on that white sweater and some metallic slingbacks and see what he has to say then. I tend to not buy if mine doesn’t like something. So I usually just don’t take him shopping or show it to him until I’ve got all of the pieces figured out. Your little granddaughter is just adorable in her mini cardigan. I wish I had one that color!
Ruth
https://voguefauxreal.com/2019/12/01
Leslie Roberts Clingan
You are so clever to not take the hubs shopping!! Or at least wait to purchase without him, and then put together your complete look before he sees any of its parts. I think PC will like the leopard skirt when I style it. Hope so anyway. Going to try it this weekend. I didn’t feel 100% comfortable in my leopard pants or in my broad plaid pants last year.
I have no metallic shoes but love the idea of a pair of metallic sling backs. Thank you for the suggestion. I just love having fashionistas give me ideas. I tend to struggle thinking outside the box, beyond matchy-matchy. Going to look for those shoes now.
Bri
Great pieces! You have fun style, and you do not look like you are 50, Leslie!
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you so much for the sweet words. I often wonder if I have a me-style at all. And then I will kind of throw some outfit together and feel good in it and realize that I do have some kind of style…good or bad!!
Terri Webster Schrandt
You look great, Leslie, and I can see you rocking those leopard slacks! My biggest problem is finding clothing that is not too hot for indoor wear but can be easily layered for foul weather. I end up choosing leggings or jeans paired with a lightweight long-sleeved shirt or sweater for indoors. I also wanted to let you know that I won’t be posting for Sunday Stills on Dec 29. Hugh Roberts will be taking the challenge for me January 5 & 12. https://secondwindleisure.com/photography/sunday-stills-photo-challenge/
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you for the heads up about Sunday Stills. So glad the challenge will continue into the new year.
It is often winter in the morning in El Paso and spring in the afternoon. I wear layers, too. Have really enjoyed
the fall and winter style challenges. Tried some trends I wouldn’t have otherwise.
Retirement Reflections
Hi, Leslie – All of these pieces look great. And, your granddaughter is absolutely adorable!
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you, Donna. I have been out of town to care for my mom and MIL, and missed being with Lucia so much. Today was the first time I have seen her in 2 weeks. She announced we are BFFs. So precious.
Cindi
Love the clothes. You look fab in them all!
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you, sugar foot!!
Shugunna Alexander
OK, first you did not look like you’re in 50s, so you go lady! Next, I like all the looks especially baby girl, she’s rocking it. I really like through blazer and booted. I typically buy what I like, my husband supports that and rarely interjects his opinion unless it looks really good!! Lol, take care Leslie
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Shugunna, you warmed my heart. I am 61 and your comments about me not looking like I am in my 50s was so precious. Holding that one near, my friend. Thank you for the swee words. I am going to wear my leopard skirt to church this week and hopefully changed PC’s mind about it.
Carrie @ Curly Crafty Mom
I think I’m more of a cardigan person over scarves, but I do have a lot of scarves! Lucia is a doll in hers. I just love these looks on you, Leslie! You look great. I would love to get a patterned/leopard print skirt. I love how you paired pink with it!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you so much, my sweet friend. The pink with the leopard was an accident – it was the sweater I had on and I failed to take something into the dressing room that I thought would match the skirt, so just put it on with the sweater. And then I thought, ‘huh, it kinda looks ok with the skirt’. Glad you thought so, too. Now to get PC on board with the skirt. Or wear it when he isn’t around. Tee hee.
jodie filogomo
I love how you still bought that skirt Leslie. Sometimes our hubby’s just don’t see it the way we do. Mine keeps wondering why I bought a tulle skirt…but when I wore it, he actually liked it.
XOXO
Jodie
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Ha!! Thank you, Jodie. I was too chicken to buy the skirt when PC was with me and clearly wasn’t a fan but hope to style it well and convert him.
Amy Johnson
I have such a hard time commenting on your blog. I write my comment, hit submit, and then it just freezes. I tried with both my iPad and my laptop, now I’m trying with my brand new Apple desktop and we will see what happens. Fingers crossed. Anyhow, LOVE your outfits, especially that leopard print skirt outfit.
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you, doll, for persisting at trying to comment on my blog. Not sure why it is trouble. I am having a few glitches and had hired someone to check things for me, which I don’t think they have done yet. I will mention that to my IT guy!
I think I will bust out the leopard skirt for church Sunday. Glad you liked it. PC made a face so I didn’t buy it the day I tried it on. He prefers animal print on animals!! I went back and bought it another day. Now to wear it and hopefully change his mind about it!
Liz Klebba
Love the blazer with a leather skirt! Send me a picture of the pink plaid pants, and I’ll throw some styling ideas your way… Lucia’a cardie look is spot on! And YES Grandma’s can be stylish! I’m always saddened when women OR men “give up” on themselves. Dressing well is an act of self-care; there is plenty of peer-reviewed, replicated data confirming that when we feel like we look good, we feel better about ourselves. AND we perform better. As for hubby, if I’m happy with a purchase, he’s happy. He just wants me to feel confident and good in my skin.
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Love everything you said in your comment. Will send you a picture of the plaid pants. Need to try them on. Have lost about 10 pounds and that may make them so big they are even more distressing to style.
After I retired, I settled into a routine of wearing unattractive active wear even though I was being athletic or active!! When I discovered the style challenge, it was perfect timing to help me rejoin ‘life’, encouragement for getting dressed, looking and feeling my best. We do perform better, feel better when we are confident in how we look!!
Liz Klebba
I’ll keep my eyes open for it!
Amy Johnson
I love the leopard print skirt outfit!
Leslie Roberts Clingan
Thank you!! The pink sweater was not planned to be paired with it the skirt but kind of works, huh? Going to wear this to church this weekend. Hope PC will decide he likes it.