Age Appropriate Chic | Fashion When You’re Over 50

How do I rock ‘age-appropriate chic’ without looking like I raided a Gen Y closet, you might ask. Is this possible when so many stores cater only for the younger generation?

Today we’ll take a look at some fabulous pieces you can buy online, and also share some tips for women over the age of 50 who want to look suitably ‘in’ fashion, and classy, but who don’t want to look like mutton dressed up as lamb.

How to Rock Age Appropriate Chic When You’re Over 50

Ah, the fabulous over 50s club! We’ve rocked through our younger years like a boss, and now it’s time to show the world that age is just a number, especially when it comes to style. 

So, grab a cuppa and let’s look at some age-appropriate chic for the seasoned and stylish woman over 50.

Does Body Shape Matter?

No not really. But first things first, your body type is unique and it does matter what clothes you choose to make it look its best.

You know your curves better than anyone else, so don’t hate them, but rather pander to them like your long-lost best friend. 

Whether you’re an hourglass, apple, pear, or anything in between, dressing for your body shape is important to finding clothes that flatter. But if you’re not sure which shape you actually are, and let’s face it we can be a bit of this and bit of that, just remember to find styles that fit you, styles that flatter you and styles you feel good in. Then you will be dressing for your body shape right without even knowing it.

Stop buying at stores or online that do not cater for your particular shape. Instead, stick to those that do. Yes, everyone deserves to look fabulous, it’s just a question of finding which brands are cutting outfits to fit you.

Now, personal style – this is where the fun begins! 

Age-appropriate dressing doesn’t mean sacrificing your individuality. Whether you’re a lover of classic pieces or bold patterns, wear what makes you feel like your most fabulous self. After all, fashion is about expressing who you are, not conforming to strict rules set by the fashion police.

Classics Are Here to Stay

Lifestylers! Let’s talk classics! A tailored blazer, a crisp white shirt, a pair of well fitting jeans, classic kitten heels, white sneakers, a statement hat – these are the timeless items that will never go out of style, no matter what the current trends are. 

Invest in fewer clothes. Buy quality pieces that will stand the test of time and make you feel like a million bucks every time you slip them on. This might mean an additional cost in the initial outlay, but you’ll be quids in at the end because wear for wear you will have a much better return on your money.

Age-Appropriate Fashion – is it even A Thing?

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the horrible wording : “Age-appropriate fashion!” 

Forget what the fashion industry tells you about dressing your age. You’re a grown woman who knows what she likes, so I always say wear whatever makes you feel confident and fabulous.

Have fun with fashion! Whether it’s well fitting skinny jeans, a beautiful top, treggings, or a leather jacket, the only rule is to wear it with flair and wear it with confidence. Personally, I’m not keen on spaghetti straps and micro minis now that I’m over 60. But that’s my choice.

Speaking of confidence, let’s also mention stepping out of your comfort zone. Trying new styles and different colors is a great way to keep your look fresh and exciting. 

So go ahead, experiment with bold colors, daring silhouettes, and maybe even that animal print skirt you’ve been eyeing. After all, life is too short to play it safe with your fashion choices.

But just don’t buy styles which are obviously meant for nubile nymphets and 20 somethings! Honestly, they just won’t have the cut and the fit for you.

And last but certainly not least, remember that age is just a number. Whether you’re 50, 60, or beyond, you deserve to feel fabulous in your own skin. Find out what your body loves, and wear this with aplomb!

So LOVE your age, FLAUNT your best features, and ROCK your unique style like the fabulous fashionista you are.

15 Top Tips : Age-Appropriate Guidelines

Of course, age-appropriate clothing means different things to different people, and older women don’t always have to stick to a classic style to look elegant. Nor do they have to follow fashion trends in order to look ‘trendy.’ 

We can experiement with different looks and different sytles whatever age we are, the trick is to avoid looking like we’ve raided our daughter’s closet.

Here are some common-sense tips gleaned from friends and fashion icons around the world to help you rock your 50s and  beyond.

1. Avoid super skinny jeans and crop tops unless you want to look like you’re auditioning for a ’90s boy band revival. Opt for classic cuts with a twist – think slim, straight-leg jeans with a funky patterned blouse.
2. Beautiful soft scarves wrapped around an ageing neckline can distract from any ‘time-traveling to the wrong decade’ moments.
3. Say ‘no’ to neon! While Gen Y might be all about those bright, eye-searing colors, we’re aiming for a more sophisticated palette.
4. Stick to timeless soft hues and neutral colours– they’re flattering at any age and won’t leave you feeling like a misplaced highlighter.
5. When in doubt, channel your inner Audrey Hepburn – classy, elegant, and perpetually chic. Exude timeless glamour without looking like you’re trying to reclaim your youth at the local disco.
6. Ditch the mini-skirts, unless you’re auditioning for the role of Tinkerbell at Disney World. Aim for hemlines that say ‘I’m classy, not trying to re-enact my youth.
7. Say goodbye to neon spandex, unless you’re aiming to glow in the dark . 
8. Going out for lunch? Opt for comfortable yet stylish athleisure wear that says ‘I’m ready for brunch,” not a Zumba class.
9. Leave the glitter eyeshadow for your granddaughter’s dance recital. Embrace the natural look that says ‘I woke up like this… after my 3 cups of coffee.’
10. Banish the idea of squeezing into those skinny jeans like a tube of toothpaste. Go for denim that’s forgiving yet flattering, because nobody needs to hide a muffin top with their morning coffee.
11. Forget about piling on every accessory you own like you’re a walking jewelry store. Less is more, ladies. Choose one statement piece that says ‘I’m fabulous’ and leave the rest in the jewelry box where they belong. A statement handbag or a hat are winners in this department.
12. If your jeans are tighter than your teenage daughter’s and you have to lie on the bed to get them on, it might be time to invest in some stretchy, forgiving denim.
13. Say no to tiny crop tops that show unless you’re gardening. No one needs to see a midriff that hasn’t seen a sit-up since the ’80s.
14. Remember, matching your lipstick to your nail polish is timeless. Just make sure it’s not the same shade as your grandson’s crayons.
15. Opt for sensible shoes. Sure, stilettos are sexy, but have you ever tried running errands in them? It’s like participating in a real-life game of ‘The Floor Is Lava.’ Stick to flats, classic white sneakers, well made sandals and ankle boots with a small wedge heel – your feet will thank you.

Shopping List

Denim Jacket – or a Stretch Denim Jacket always classic, always useful.

White button down shirt – you’ll reach for this time and time again.

Corduoroy blazer – so on trend.

Not Your Daughter’s Jeans – these are a favorite.

Maxi Dresses and Boho Styles – This is one of my favorite go-to online stores. Use code LIFESTYLEFIFTY10 at checkout for 10% discount.

Clothes cut for Curves – If you are curvy, you will love the non-boring basics at Styling You. Use my code JOCSTYL for a nice discount on orders over $150.

What I’m Wearing in the Video

Fella Hamilton, age appropriate chic separates that are designed for style and also comfort.

Somerset Print Sweater/Pastel Mix Size 10. Somerset Print Scarf/Pastel Mix. Half Rib E2E Cardigan/Sage Size S. Suzy Stretch Jeans in Indigo and White Size 10. Gifted Products

Fella Hamilton is an Australian company. Established in 1969. Designing and making quality clothing for women seeking elegant and contemporary everydaystyle.

Now, go forth and conquer the world, one chic outfit at a time. And remember, the best time to start dressing age-appropriately is always right now.

Cheers to looking fabulous at any age!

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Disclaimer:This post “Age Appropriate Chic” contains affiliate links from which I stand to earn a small commission but at no expense to you. Any gifted items are marked with an asterisk *.  Lifestyle Fifty Website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.  Some images in my blog posts may have been sourced with permission from (affiliate partners) Styling You The Label and Salty Crush websites. Please read my full disclosure here.