Sometimes a lot, sometimes not so much. In areas of clothing and fashion, usually just some common sense is all it takes to be considered age appropriate. But, many times we lose our objectivity and just wear something so,so wrong. And truthfully, I believe as many people dress too old for their age as they do too young. Although, the ones that go in the young direction can be really disturbing!!
In all seriousness, I think I get asked this question maybe the most, “is this too young for me?” There’s not a quick answer. My general advice is, after the early 40′s it’s time to start using a very critical eye with your clothing. Unfortunately, that is hard to do and it helps to enlist an objective person (hence, my job). Another thing to consider is your overall appearance. If a hair style change is in order, do it. If you need to have some one show you some make-up techniques, do it. If you want an objective opinion, ask me. And for sure, start taking care of your skin! Please understand that when I mention make-up and hair I am not talking “made up”, I mean a lifestyle friendly, natural look and knowing how to play up your features. You’ll see why I mention this below.
As far as clothing rules are concerned for more mature ladies, there are a handful of them. But first let me say, there is nothing wrong with accentuating your best assets be it legs, waist, shoulders etc. That being said a few tips to remember are, generally:
Skirts, no shorter than around 2″-3″ above the knees, petites have more room to play with
If you are going bare on top, keep the bottom half more modest
If you are wearing a short skirt, keep the top half modest
Robust cleavage is not an appropriate thing
Pants should always fit nicely and this DOES mean they will touch your body; pulling at the pockets, crotch, or rear end is always a no-no; they should sit slightly below the belly button
Pleats on skirts and pants, generally no
Skinny jeans are fine for certain body shapes; straight or slight boot cut jeans are just universally more flattering
Moderate frills and ruffles are ok if anchored with tailored pieces
Tights, skirts, and boots are ok
Shorts are fine and if you’ve got good legs ( no prominent veins or cellulite, sorry!) you can stand to go a tad bit shorter than a skirt; again, an objective eye may be needed
Heels are always a good thing; be careful not to go too little girl with flats though
Moderate shiny pieces are ok for day, less I think into your 60′s and above
There are more details we could go into but this list covers the main questions I think. And now, for the secret. Looking fabulous always includes another element that too frequently we lose as we age. A confident attitude. And if you’ve never had one well it’s long past time you did!
Look at these pictures below. Yes, a couple are celebs and I’m showing them to show mainly the hair and make-up….it’s done. But the two women in Milan, what a pair. Soooo pulled together and very simple. Plus they paid attention to details, it matters. But they all have such a radiant confidence.
Check out the sunglasses, bracelet, belt, up turned collar, and general “yes….may I help you” look. Great picture.
shopping ladies in Milan/ courtesy the sartorialist
Look at the length of Glenn’s pants below, they create a nice long line ending in a pointed toe. This detail is so important, especially for petites. Too often our pants are too short and shoes, well, they can just be awful. You don’t have to go this pointy for sure, but please update your shoes if needed.
glenn close
Love the jacket here over an untucked, probably fitted white blouse. Simple black straight skirt….. too bad we can’t see the shoes. Pair this jacket and blouse with black pants for lunch out. You just have to put the effort into finding the pieces.
Helen Mirren/ NYC
Again, so much of the way we look is more than our clothes. Tangibles….hair, skin, make-up, and of course what we wear. Non-tangibles…..health, attitude, self-esteem, and lifestyle.
Ladies, you can do this. My desire is that we all feel good about ourselves and the way we look. But, even as a stylist I will say, if you’re happy and living as you believe you should, that’s all that really matters.
Have a great Labor Day Weekend!
