Defining Your Style at 50+ was written by Paisley Hansen
Defining Your Style at 50+
Women over 50 have seen decades of fashion trends come and go—and sometimes come around once more. They’ve also had time to figure out what kind of clothing they like, and what they’d never put on again, as their lives and circumstances have changed over the years. The middle years are a new beginning for women as their bodies and lifestyles evolve. At this point in life, many women find themselves reevaluating their style and personal identity to better reflect who they are now. No doubt your tastes have changed since you were younger, but has your wardrobe kept up? Maybe you’ve spent years focusing on your career, or put time and effort into your family’s clothing as children grew. Now is a great time to define or even redefine your look. Putting some effort into your wardrobe will increase your confidence and make it easy to put together outfits you love, no matter your age.
Choose Quality
Affordable style and inexpensive style are not the same. While it might be tempting to load up on low-priced pieces, clothing that is poorly made isn’t the best way to spend your hard-earned money. Bargain items will tear or wear out quickly. Take time to inspect clothing as you shop. Look for seams that lay flat and don’t pucker. Check buttonholes for neat stitching and make sure buttons are sewed on tightly. Choose long-lasting metal zippers over plastic ones. If the fabric has a pattern, it should match up at the seams. Natural fibers, such as cotton, wool, and silk will last longer and look nicer over time than synthetic fabrics. Stick to your budget, but don’t be afraid to spend a little more on your seured credit card on quality clothing that you’ll wear time and again. Certain pieces, like a well-made linen blazer, sturdy shoes, or classic jeans, are worth investing in because they offer durability and long-term value.
Buy the Classics
Call them staple pieces, call them a capsule wardrobe. Whatever you name these versatile items, they are the foundation on which a stylish wardrobe is built. Mid-waist, dark denim jeans are flattering and look great dressed up or down. Pair them with a classic white button-down blouse and add a statement bracelet or scarf in your favorite colors. Find a smooth-fitting tank top you like and buy it in several colors to layer with jackets and sweaters. Sheath dresses, fit-and-flare skirts, pencil skirts, and suits in neutral colors create a backdrop for accessories in your favorite textures. Don’t forget the shoes—choose stylish footwear, such as a well-made pair of black pumps, which look great with everything from skirts to jeans.
Shop at the End of the Season
Stores are ready to switch up inventory at the season’s end, and it’s a perfect time to find deals during a sale. However, be mindful not to buy items just because they are on sale—focus on intentional purchases that truly add value to your wardrobe. Look for markdowns on coats in January or February. Swimsuits become clearance items around September — and buying one in the fall might be great motivation to eat healthily and exercise all winter long. Shop for athletic shoes in spring, when outdoor exercise picks up, and again in late fall when sneakers make way for winter boots.
Notice Favorite Pieces
Before buying new items, start by shopping your own closet—you may already have what you need. Your clothing has changed through the years, but most women have favorite colors, fabrics, and silhouettes that they purchase again and again. Many women tend to wear the same things repeatedly for comfort and simplicity. Look through your closet and find those pieces you choose to wear most often, even if some are a bit worn from frequent use. What do you like about them? The clothes that make you feel great about yourself are the essence of your style. That’s what you want to look for when shopping for new items.
Realize What You Don’t Like
In addition to those favorite pieces, most women own clothing they wore once or twice, or maybe never. Accumulating ‘stuff’ you don’t love can clutter your wardrobe and make defining your style harder. Even if the fit was good, something just didn’t look or feel right. Notice those pieces, too. What doesn’t work for you? When you’re defining your style, it’s important to know what you don’t love. Then you won’t waste time or money looking at those colors or silhouettes.
Pay Attention to the Waist
Tops and dresses that are fitted in the waist are more complimentary than an oversize, baggy shape, especially when considering different body shapes and how the right fit can flatter them. Even if your waist is undefined, it’s easy to create a silhouette with the right fit. A wrap dress creates a waistline, while the V-neck accentuates the bust. Pair a sheath dress with a slim belt to visually break up the midsection. Find pants that fit smoothly and get them tailored if needed to achieve a good fit for your body.
Go for the Bold
If you have spent years secretly craving bright colors or fun pieces that didn’t fit into your previous wardrobe, now is the time to buy them. Defining your style at 50+ is a journey of self expression and embracing your unique identity as an older woman. Think of that neutral wardrobe staple as a blank canvas for adding splashes of color. Accessories like colorful scarves, statement earrings, and chunky necklaces are less expensive than foundation pieces, so have fun with them and use thoughtful styling choices to elevate your look.
Seek inspiration from fashion magazines, social media, or even a recent post on this blog for fresh ideas. Try to define your style in three words to help guide your shopping and outfit choices, and stay focused on your personal style goals rather than chasing every trend. Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident, and be intentional in what you’re wearing to reflect your personality and own style.
Now that you know the basics of finding your style, give yourself permission to invest time and effort in your wardrobe—it’s definitely worth bothering with at this stage of life. Take a friend shopping so you can get advice and a second opinion, or seek professional style advice tailored for women over 50 to emphasize your individuality. Remember, as a woman, your style journey is unique, and you should discover your own style rather than copying others. Support your favorite brand or brands that align with your style—brands like John Lewis are great examples of those that listen to their customers. I’ve heard from many women about their style journeys, and their experiences have inspired several posts here offering further style tips and inspiration. Finding the clothing that works for you lets you feel good about yourself, and gives you the boost you need to take on your next adventure.
Understanding Your Body Type
Understanding your body type is the foundation of developing a personal style that truly flatters and empowers you, especially after 50. Every woman’s body is unique, and recognizing your shape—whether it’s hourglass, pear, apple, or rectangle—can make all the difference when choosing clothes that highlight your best features. Take a moment to assess your proportions and think about which areas you’d like to accentuate or gently downplay. For example, if you have a defined waist, wrap dresses and belted jackets can showcase your curves beautifully. If you’re tall and lean, try experimenting with layers and textured fabrics to add dimension. The goal is to build a wardrobe that makes you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin, no matter your body type. Embracing your shape and dressing with intention will help you create a style after 50 that feels authentic and uniquely yours.
Comfort and Practicality
As you refine your personal style after 50, comfort and practicality should be at the heart of your wardrobe choices. There’s no need to sacrifice feeling good for the sake of fashion—today’s styles offer plenty of options that are both chic and comfortable. Invest in comfortable shoes that support your feet throughout your busy day, and look for clothes made from natural fibers like cotton, silk, or wool, which are gentle on the skin and breathable in any season. Think about your daily activities and choose pieces that move with you, whether it’s a soft t-shirt for running errands or a flowy dress for a lunch date. Prioritizing quality over quantity means your wardrobe will not only look great but also stand the test of time. When you feel good in what you wear, it shows in your confidence and zest for life—proof that style after 50 is all about living well and dressing for the life you love.
Accessorizing with Intention
Accessories can make all the difference in expressing your personal style after 50. The right statement necklace, a pair of bold earrings, or a chic scarf can instantly elevate even the simplest outfit and reflect your unique personality. When choosing accessories, think about the style words that resonate with you—are you drawn to classic, bohemian, or modern looks? Let these words guide your choices and help you curate a collection that feels true to you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures, colors, and sizes until you find what makes you feel stylish and confident. Remember, accessorizing is about balance: a single standout piece can be more impactful than piling on too many items at once. With a thoughtful approach, your accessories will add polish and flair to your wardrobe, making every outfit feel special and uniquely yours.
Mixing Old with New
One of the joys of personal style after 50 is blending the best of your existing wardrobe with fresh, on-trend pieces. There’s no need to part with beloved clothes that still make you feel great—mixing old favorites with new finds can create outfits that are both timeless and current. Try pairing a vintage printed dress with a modern denim jacket or updating a classic blazer with trendy jeans and a bold accessory. Even small changes, like swapping out buttons or hemming a skirt, can breathe new life into older pieces. This approach not only keeps your wardrobe interesting but also allows you to express your creativity and stay on trend without starting from scratch. By mixing old with new, you’ll craft a style that’s uniquely yours and always evolving.
Staying Current with Trends
Staying current with trends is a fun way to keep your personal style fresh and exciting after 50, but it’s important to do so on your own terms. Browse fashion magazines, follow style bloggers, and seek out style tips that inspire you, but remember that not every trend will suit your taste or lifestyle. Focus on trends that align with your personal style and make you feel confident—maybe it’s a new color, a modern cut of jeans, or a statement accessory. Invest in quality pieces that can be mixed with your existing wardrobe, so you always have a go-to outfit that feels both stylish and comfortable. By selectively incorporating trends and staying true to yourself, you’ll receive more compliments and feel good about your fashion choices, proving that style after 50 is all about confidence, creativity, and having fun with fashion.
How do you define your style after 50? Let us know in the comments at the bottom of this page!
Paisley Hansen is a freelance writer and expert in health, fitness, beauty, and fashion. As well, when she isn’t writing she can usually be found reading a good book or hitting the gym.
I buy what I like no matter what is trending. After all if it has never been a trend, it never goes out of fashion. My wardrobe is a mix of local designers, bridge sportswear, and old navy mixed with vintage pieces found at used clothing stores. It works for me and I love my look.
You are pleasing you and that counts, big time. Warmly, Honey
Great article!! I, like the other woman who commented, already have defined my style over the years. I know what I like, what I think looks good on me and have not been a follower of “the latest style” for probably 30 years or so, as I don’t want to look like everyone else — just myself! Love your advice though, Paisley!
You are true unto yourself. That is a blessing. I applaud you. Warmly, Honey
Glad you enjoyed. Best, Honey