I want to let you in on a not-so-secret secret: I’ve discovered five fashion principles that will boost any woman’s personal style. If you build your wardrobe on these cornerstones, you’ll succeed wearing trends when you’re over fifty.
We all know that woman – the one who consistently looks sensational. She is stylish without being teeny-bopper trendy. How does she do it? What are some of the secrets to looking fabulous over fifty?
I can’t claim to be an expert. I haven’t slept in a Holiday Inn Express for a while. But I know it when I see it!
I’ve mulled it over, studied some of these stylish women, and done a little research on the internet. Here’s what I’ve observed in each woman…
She is comfortable with herself
She understands what her assets are and plays them up. But also, she knows where her weaknesses are.
It’s a total game-changer when you accept yourself as you are. None of us is perfect. The older I get, the more secure I am acknowledging that.
Heck, the models and influencers we often try to emulate aren’t perfect. They’ve learned what works for them and embrace it.
That and they have professionals taking their pictures and doctoring the results. LOL.
She is willing to take risks
The most stylish women I know have added one or two of these trends to their wardrobes, but haven’t gone over the top doing so.
She understands balance and proportion
And, no, I’m not talking about her yoga class.
The woman who rocks style knows her body proportions. She pays attention to where clothing “starts” and “stops.” If she’s short-waisted, she probably won’t tuck a top into high-waisted pants.
She knows how to balance layers, colors, and patterns. If she wants to wear a statement piece, she pairs it with something more subdued. That’s why your LBD is so beloved. It is a base layer that shows off jackets, jewelry, or other accessories that need to shine in the spotlight.
She knows how to accessorize
You can read all sorts of “rules” about how many accessories to wear, but the common thread of advice is:
Do NOT overdo.
From what I’ve observed, it’s hard to pull off a statement necklace, big chunky earrings, a fancy purse, bold shoes, AND layered bracelets. It can be done, I guess. But it’s tricky. You run the risk of looking like you rolled through Elton John’s closet.
Accessories are the perfect place to add some trendiness to your outfits. I remember when scarves came in as the must-have accessory. I felt like if I wasn’t wearing one, my outfit was not complete. (I think Dr. Birx of Covid-fame still subscribes to this philosophy.)
This year you might add a chunky gold chain with a bold pendant. Or dip into the colorful bead trend. I hear mismatched earrings are quite the thing, too. And we haven’t even mentioned straw totes or phone cases and lanyards…Or SHOES! So many wonderful shoes! Have you worn your sneakers with a dress yet?
These “extras” make wearing trends when you’re over fifty so much fun.
She is particular about her clothes
I’ve done it. You’ve probably done it. But we really shouldn’t.
“What?” you ask.
Wear something that doesn’t fit just right or maybe has a little stain where you’re sure no one will notice. Or maybe it needs to be ironed. (This is being written by a woman who does not own an ironing board. So, no judgment here.)
My point is that the sharpest outfit can be upstaged by the dullest details.
So, what do you think all women who consistently wear good-looking, stylish outfits have in common?
How comfortable are you wearing trends when you’re over fifty?
Leave a comment!
Donna Libby
yes some of us struggle but sometimes we get it right
I personally have always loved getting an outfit together
I love this blog & You!
Tracey Buchanan
Thanks, Donna! Yes, sometimes we do get it right!
Betsy Powell
At 5 foot 3, 99% of clothing I buy has to be hemmed or “lifted” at the shoulder so the waist and hips hit at the right spot. A good alterations person is worth their weight in gold!
Tracey Buchanan
That’s true no matter how tall you are!!
Brenda McElroy
We all need a little fashion encouragement after getting comfy in our “work out” clothes through Covid! Thanks for aiming it at all of us over 50! Love you pic!
Tracey Buchanan
Thanks! “Pandemic-wear”remains a temptation, doesn’t it?!