Age Appropriate Dressing

Helen Mirren at the British Academy Film Awards

I wish some authority  would tell me what is appropriate dressing for my age.   I am still attracted the styles I was attracted to in my 20′s, but now more of my body looks better with some sort of coverage on them.  It seems as if no one markets to middle-aged women who still want to be stylish.  Even Eileen Fisher, whom I used to love, has gotten box and big-shirty.  There is no shape to her clothes.  I don’t want skin tight, but I want shape.

Helen Mirren manages to do it and look spectacular.  Does she have a stylist who tells her what looks chic and age approriate, or does she just know it?   Jane Fonda and Suzanne Sommers also know how to look hip and age-appropriate.  But for most of us, it seems like the choices are Mother of the Bride fashion or stuff that looks way too young.  Or wears too young.  Anyone tried on a pair of jeans lately?

Suzanne Sommers

Recently, I tried on a short dress.  I love the dress, but I thought it was too short for my age.  I happened to be with a couple of friends who said, yes, without hose, or sheer hose, it doesn’t do it.  But with boots and shape control leggings (which are thick, and more like pants), it’s killer.  They were so right!  It made all the difference in the world.  And I found the BEST LEGGINGS from Wolford (check them out http://www.wolfordshop.com/Hosiery-Le...).

Here are some other things I have learned:  1) sheer coverings when you don’t want to show TOO much arm; 2) soft structures, but not too boxy.  Clothes need a little shape if you want to have shape; 3) Muted colors are better than super bright, which tend to make your under eye dark circles and wrinkles show up.

What are some of your age-appropriate clothing changes?  What things do you find yourself wearing that might be too young?  What about too old?

Share this: