Fashion doesn’t have an expiration date, but some style choices might need a refresh as we age gracefully. I’ve spent decades in the fashion industry, watching trends come and go, and I’ve noticed certain missteps that many fabulous women over 60 continue to make. Let’s explore these common fashion faux pas and how to avoid them while embracing your unique style journey.
1. Clinging to Outdated Eyewear
Those massive frames from the 80s aren’t doing your beautiful face any favors! Outdated glasses can instantly age your appearance.
Consider refreshing your eyewear with contemporary frames that complement your face shape while providing proper function. Modern options balance style with comfort perfectly.
2. Drowning in Oversized Clothes
Though hiding in baggy garments seems tempting, excess fabric actually adds visual weight rather than concealing it. Your gorgeous figure deserves better!
Instead, embrace tailored pieces that skim your body without clinging. Well-fitted clothing creates a sleek silhouette that celebrates your shape without sacrificing comfort.
3. Embracing Elastic Waistbands Exclusively
While comfort reigns supreme, surrendering entirely to elastic waistbands limits your style potential. I’ve seen too many women stuck in this comfortable rut!
Mix in some structured pants with stretch fabrics or hidden elastic panels. These modern alternatives offer comfort without announcing your preference for expandable waistlines.
4. Wearing Outdated Denim Styles
If your jeans haven’t changed since the Clinton administration, we need to talk! Those tapered, high-waisted mom jeans from decades past aren’t doing you justice.
Straight-leg or subtle boot-cut jeans with a mid-rise waist generally flatter mature figures beautifully. Dark washes without excessive distressing create a timeless, sophisticated look.
5. Surrendering to Orthopedic-Looking Footwear
Comfortable shoes needn’t scream “I’ve given up on style!” Those clunky, obviously orthopedic options age you instantly.
Thankfully, numerous brands now blend comfort technology with attractive designs. Look for cushioned flats, stylish loafers, or low block heels that support your feet while complementing your outfit.
6. Overlooking Proper Hemlines
Hemlines matter tremendously at any age! Skirts and pants dragging on the floor collect dirt and create a frumpy appearance that nobody deserves.
Take time to hem garments properly for your height. Generally, pants should break slightly at the shoe, while most skirts look best ending at or just below the knee.
7. Choosing Unflattering Necklines
Though turtlenecks might seem like safe options, they often accentuate neck changes that come with aging. Similarly, extremely high necklines can appear matronly.
V-necks, scoop necks, and open collars typically create more flattering lines. These styles elongate the neck while drawing attention to your face rather than problem areas.
8. Ignoring Color Psychology
Black might feel safe, but wearing exclusively dark colors can drain vitality from your complexion. I’ve seen too many vibrant personalities hidden behind all-black wardrobes!
Introduce colors that enhance your skin tone. Soft blues, teals, certain pinks, and warm neutrals often bring life back to mature skin and reflect your dynamic personality.
9. Wearing Outdated Prints
If your closet houses large floral prints reminiscent of 1990s sofas, it’s time for an update! Certain dated patterns instantly age even the most youthful spirit.
Consider modern prints in appropriate scales. Small to medium geometric patterns, subtle animal prints, or contemporary florals add interest without overwhelming your frame or looking stuck in time.
10. Neglecting Proper Jacket Length
Jacket proportions can make or break your entire look! Too-short jackets cut your body at unflattering points, while overly long ones can swallow your frame entirely.
The most universally flattering jackets hit at mid-hip or just below the waistline. This length creates balance while minimizing attention to the midsection and hips.
11. Forgetting About Proportion
Wearing voluminous pieces together creates the dreaded tent effect that adds visual pounds instantly. Balance matters tremendously in creating flattering outfits!
If wearing something loose on top, pair it with slimmer bottoms. Conversely, wide-leg pants or fuller skirts need more fitted tops to maintain proportion and showcase your shape.
12. Dismissing Modern Accessories
Clinging exclusively to accessories from decades past dates your entire look unnecessarily. Those heavy gold chains from the 80s aren’t doing you any favors!
Update your jewelry box with some contemporary pieces. Modern, lighter-weight accessories in mixed metals or with subtle details can refresh your entire wardrobe without major investment.
13. Wearing Inappropriately Youthful Styles
Attempting to dress like your granddaughter creates a disconnect between your authentic self and your appearance. Crop tops and mini skirts rarely translate well after 60!
Instead, find age-appropriate interpretations of trends that interest you. A cold-shoulder top offers a hint of skin without the inappropriate exposure of a tube top.
14. Overlooking Handbag Proportions
Tiny purses or massive totes can throw off your entire silhouette! Your handbag should complement your frame, not overwhelm or disappear against it.
Medium-sized bags generally work best for most women. Choose structured styles that stand on their own rather than slouchy options that can appear casual or dated.
15. Misunderstanding Makeup Evolution
Applying makeup exactly as you did in your 30s ignores how skin texture changes with age. Heavy foundation settles into lines, while frosted eyeshadows emphasize crepey lids.
Embrace lighter formulations with hydrating properties. Cream blushes, satin-finish foundations, and subtle neutral shadows typically flatter mature skin much better than heavy, matte products.
16. Wearing Consistently Heavy Layers
Bundling up in multiple heavy layers might feel cozy but often creates unnecessary bulk that hides your lovely figure. I see this mistake constantly during cooler months!
Consider thinner, technical fabrics designed for warmth without volume. Modern thermal options, fine merino wool, and thin down alternatives provide warmth without the marshmallow effect.
17. Neglecting Proper Sleeve Length
Sleeves that hit at unflattering points draw attention to areas you might prefer to downplay. Three-quarter sleeves ending at the widest part of the forearm rarely flatter anyone!
Full-length sleeves or those ending just above the wrist bone tend to be most flattering. For short sleeves, those ending mid-bicep generally create the most pleasing line.
18. Avoiding Tailoring Services
Off-the-rack rarely means perfect fit, yet many women accept mediocre fit rather than seeking alterations. Even expensive garments look cheap when they don’t fit properly!
Find a good tailor and budget for basic alterations. Simple adjustments to shoulder seams, hemlines, and waistbands transform ordinary clothes into custom-looking pieces that flatter your unique proportions.