Let’s be honest- fashion after 50 stops being about what’s trending and starts being about survival. Can I bend over in these jeans without cutting off circulation? Will this dress hide the fact that I had cold pizza for breakfast?
Every season, some 22-year-old fashion guru tells us what’s “in”. Cropped tops? Unless we’re poolside that’s a hard pass. Micro-mini skirts? Nope, Thats fancy talk for ‘You will not be sitting down today’. Mom jeans? Wasn’t flattering in the 80’s, isn’t flattering now.
But here’s the good news: Just because we are over 50 doesn’t mean we are doomed to a life of beige cardigans and orthopedic shoes. Unless of course, they are cute orthopedic shoes! Fashion after 50 isn’t about giving up- it’s about leveling up.
It’s about knowing what works for you, what’s comfortable on your body, and how to look fabulous without dislocating a hip. So lets dive into the Do’s, the Don’ts, and Do Not Cares of dressing after the big 5-0!
1. The Great Denim Debate:
Once upon a time, we squeezed into skinny jeans so tight they doubled as shapewear. Now? We’ve learned the importance of a good fit. That doesn’t mean giving up real denim for pull on pants, (unless we want to), it just means we no longer tolerate jeans that require deep squats and a prayer to get into.
So, where’s the debate, you ask? The debate is in which style of jeans are the most flattering? Straight-leg, bootcut, wide-leg, and boyfriend fit jeans are flattering to the widest range of body types, because they tend to balance out the hip and the mid section. Bonus points if they have a little stretch, because, you know. Snacks!
Everyone has a preference on rise, but a mid-rise offers the most balanced fit that is great for all body types. Low rise is generally too low for women of a mature age. Face it, no one wants to see your underpants peeking out or the muffin sitting on top.
And high-rise pants sit above the natural waist, emphasizing the mid-section, calling attention to the mom pooch, (who wants that!) and can make a short torso appear even shorter. If not tailored properly high-rise pants may gap at the back or feel excessively restrictive while breathing.
Here are a few options worth consideration. My personal go to’s are the Lucky Brand Jeans. I have several pairs.
2. Chic Sneakers vs. Stilettos
Rember when we were 20 something and wore heels so high we needed an emergency contact on stand-by? At 50+, we have one golden rule about shoes. Can I walk in these without questioning my life choices? But just because a shoe is designed for comfort doesn’t have to mean it’s boring or it sacrifices style. Chic sneakers with arch support? Check. Cushy loafers in a fun color? Check. Super cute wedge sandal? Check Check!
3. The Battle of Prints and Bold Colors:
There seems to be an unspoken law that the older you get the wilder your prints become. Leopard print is a classic. But done well you should not match Grandma Yetta from the Nanny!
Animal prints and bold colors actually contrast beautifully with light or greying hair, adding vibrancy to your overall look.
Wearing bold colors adds a youthful and energized look that prevents a washed out look that sometimes happens with muted or neutral tones. Strong colors naturally pull the focus upward, highlighting your hair, face, and features rather than blending in with the background.
4. Trendy vs. Timeless: High Quality Basics
Instead of wasting your hard-earned money on fast fashion that falls apart after the first wash, invest in a few classic pieces that you will get more use out of, like soft cardigans in a bold color, a cute, tailored jacket and few pairs of jeans that actually fit our bodies, without requiring advanced yoga poses to get into.
The goal is fewer clothes, better style. And remember life’s too short for itchy fabric and broken zippers. I actually have the cardigan below in three different colors! And a great denim jacket is a must!
5. The Effortless Cardigan:
A long flowy cardigan is basically the adult version of a security blanket. It adds a touch of sophistication, keeps us cozy, and conveniently hides the fact that we may be wearing a tank top older than our kids, underneath.
6. Spandex: Performance Wear or Public Indecency
Spandex is like that one friend who is amazing at the gym but a little too much everywhere else. It can make you feel like an actual athlete mid jumping jack in your living room but also clings to every curve and crease, and bad decision you made at the buffet. Let’s just leave spandex where it belongs, in the gym, on superheroes, and in 80’s workout videos.
The new loungewear trend is all about looking polished while feeling like you’re still in pajamas. Think matching knits sets, stylish joggers, and soft, drapey tops. Bonus, it’s safe for running to the grocery store at 6 a.m. when you realize you’re out of coffee. True story!
7. Midi and Maxi Dresses:
These dresses are pure magic: they hide bloating, flatter every figure, and require zero effort. Just throw one on, add a cute cardigan or denim jacket, a wide stretchy belt, and BAM- you’re fabulous! Which leads to our next topic…
8. Statement Accessories and Sunglasses:
Earrings that match our personality (and, or mood swings), giant handbag that could fit a small child, and the famous wide stretchy belt are the secret weapon to grownup fashion. They say, I made an effort, even when we didn’t.
Need to hide tired eyes? Big sunglasses. Didn’t do your makeup? Big sunglasses. Avoiding someone at the grocery store? Bigger sunglasses. They are like social invisibility cloaks, don’t ever give them up.
9. Hair: To Dye or Not to Dye?
The great thing about getting older is you realize you don’t have to follow anyone’s rules. So rock that platinum bob, get the blue streak you always wanted, grow it, chop it, it doesn’t matter.
Some embrace the silver fox look, others pretend they’ve had the same chestnut brown hair since 1983, and my blonde highlights are natural …as far as you know. Theres no judgement here, just make sure your roots aren’t telling a different story.
10. Confidence: aka The Best Fashion Statement
Trends come and go, but confidence is forever. The real trick to looking amazing after 50 is owning your style. Wearing what makes you feel great and remembering that fashion should be fun- not stressful. So whether you’re rocking a bold statement piece or more like me and leaning hard into comfy chic, wear it with pride.
Final Thoughts: Slay with Style and a Side of Sass
Ah, fashion after 50. That magical time when you realize that comfort is just as important as looking fabulous and you finally understand why your mom had “good shoes” and “walking shoes.” But don’t be fooled- style doesn’t have to retire just because you’ve been on the planet for half a century. If anything it should get a little more refined, a little rebellious, and a whole lot more fun.
In summary:
- Mid-rise, Bootcut, straight-leg or wide leg Jeans are your friend
- Replace all uncomfortable shoes with cute sneakers, loafers, and wedges or sensible dress shoes.
- Bold color in tops or sweaters.
- Buy higher quality classic pieces like tailored jackets, cardigans, and jeans.
- Long cardigan in a neutral color that goes with everything.
- Flowy midi dresses.
- Accessorize with statement pieces.
- Keep your roots and the rest of your hair the same color.