Age is Just a Number
Let’s kick off by debunking the myth that age should dictate your fashion choices. Your style is a reflection of your personality, and it’s time to embrace your unique self. Instead of conforming to what used to be style rules and societal norms such as having to cut your hair short and no longer wearing jeans or leather, let your fashion choices be an expression of your true essence. Whether you love vibrant colours, bold prints, or timeless classics, the key is to wear what makes you feel amazing. Remember, age is just a number, and style knows no bounds. So, let go of any self-imposed restrictions and embrace your unique style with confidence.
I know so many women through my 7 Steps to Style program who are way more stylish now, in their 50s than they were in their 20s and 30s. There is no age limit to style!
Wear Your True Colours
Colours have the power to transform your look and uplift your spirits (in fact, wearing colour rather than all neutrals may give you a hit of dopamine, one of our feel-good hormones, and it can also spark joy in others as well). Discovering your ideal color palette is like uncovering a secret style weapon. Embrace shades that complement your skin tone and make you radiate with confidence. Finding your perfect colours will revolutionize your wardrobe. Consider getting your own personal colour analysis to unveil the palette that will transform your wardrobe and leave you feeling empowered. When you’re wearing your best palette of colours in your ideal value, value and colour contrast, you’ll radiate beauty and embrace a style that is uniquely you.
Check out the Trends
You don’t want to be a fashion victim, but it’s worthwhile checking out what the current fashion trends are now to make sure what you’re wearing isn’t looking dated (looking dated makes you seem older than you are, and that your ideas are out of date), the simplest way is to go into a large department store and take a look around at the general women’s fashions. If what you’re wearing (or is in your wardrobe) looks very similar to a bunch of things in the store, it’s still in trend, if you couldn’t find a replacement unless it’s a really creative garment, then most likely it’s dated. Check out this post to help you discover when it’s time to let go of the trends you love.
Step Up Your Shoe Game
Finding stylish and comfortable shoes became a priority for me when I underwent bunion surgery. I had to rethink my style choices and make adjustments to accommodate orthotics in my shoes. During the recovery process, closed high-vamp shoes that could accommodate my orthotics became my go-to choice. It was important for me to find shoes that not only provided the necessary support but also made a positive fashion statement.
I discovered that there is a vast array of trendy flat shoe options available that combine both style and comfort. From chic ballet flats to trendy sneakers, I found stylish pairs that suited my taste.
Dealing with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis or chronic shin splints doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. I found comfort in footwear brands that specialize in fashionable yet comfortable options. Supportive flats with cushioned insoles and stylish sneakers with arch support were game-changers for me.
Let’s not forget the power of nude shoes! These versatile footwear options not only provide comfort but also visually elongate your legs and add a touch of sophistication to any outfit and won’t draw attention to your feet if you don’t want to make your flat comfy shoes a focal point.
Comfortable and Stylish
It’s easy to end up in frumpsville when comfort becomes a priority and driver of your style (which as we age, is not uncommon). But these two things – comfort and style can be found in the same outfit as with modern fabric technologies that mean stretch is added to so many fabrics increasing their comfort level, which means you don’t have to resort only to oversized clothing, activewear or sloppy garments to be comfortable throughout your day. Apart from fit and fabrics, which make a difference to the overall look of your outfit, also consider body shape and proportions, getting your silhouette in harmony with your current body (which may have changed over time) so that your clothes are working with you, rather than against you.
I’m a big fan of comfy stretch-fabric dresses like this one, as a dress is such an easy option, you don’t even have to coordinate it with anything else if the weather is right!
Length Matters: Skirts and Proportions
When you have shorter legs, choosing the right skirt length can work wonders for your proportions. Opt for skirts that hit above the knee or on the knee to create the illusion of longer legs as longer skirts can have a dowdy appearance if you’re not wearing heels. Avoid overwhelming frills and flounces if they don’t align with your personal style. Instead, focus on clean lines and streamlined silhouettes that flatter your figure. Remember, it’s all about balance and proportion. By choosing skirts that accentuate your assets, you’ll exude confidence and elegance. Learn more about The Best Skirt For Your Body Shape
Dressing with Personality
Fashion is a powerful tool for self-expression, so why not define your personal aesthetic and let it shine through your style? Take the time to explore your likes, dislikes, and personality traits. Are you edgy, feminine, bohemian, classic, or, like most of us, some sort of mix of personality styles? What colors, patterns, and textures do you naturally gravitate towards? Are you drawn to bold, vibrant pieces or do you prefer understated elegance? Understanding your unique style preferences will help you curate a wardrobe that truly represents who you are. Understanding the impact of your personality on your style is imperative in nailing down your style and making you feel mentally as well as physically comfortable in every outfit, and it’s why it’s Step 1 in my 7 Steps to Style program because, without this knowledge, you’ll find you have a hit and miss approach to style as you don’t have the education and understanding of how to express your personality through your clothing so you make the right choices every time.
Accessories are an essential part of every outfit, and shouldn’t be an afterthought, as they really do provide the icing on your sartorial cake. Accessories such as scarves, necklaces, and earrings can provide an essential focal point up near your face, drawing our attention there.
And as I always say “If you’re looking in my eyes, you’re not looking at my thighs”.
Your personal aesthetic should align with your lifestyle and the activities you engage in daily. If you have a more casual and relaxed lifestyle, incorporating comfortable yet stylish pieces into your wardrobe would be a priority. On the other hand, if you have a professional or formal setting, investing in more polished and tailored ensembles may be what’s required.
Creating a versatile wardrobe is the key to endless outfit possibilities. Invest in garments in your colour palette made with quality as you’ll find that it creates your most versatile wardrobe, one that can be mixed and matched effortlessly. Focus on quality over quantity and choose pieces that flatter your body shape. By building a versatile wardrobe, you’ll have a range of stylish options at your fingertips, making getting dressed a breeze every day.
Getting the knowledge and education in colour and style you need means you can build a wardrobe that works for this phase of your life, giving you the confidence to step out and do everything that you want to do.
Further Reading
Your Ultimate Flat Shoe Wardrobe and Where to Find Those Elusive Perfect Shoes