The Top Fashion Mistakes Women Over 50 Are Making

Fashion mistakes in women over 50 are growing at an increased rate. I see this in my styling clients as well. 50+ women really struggle with fashion. What is the cause I wonder? I suspect there is a multitude of reasons why but here is the short list. Weight gain, lack of time, money, foot pain, comfort, and being too old have all come out of my client's mouths as reasons for their struggles. Here are some of the many fashion mistakes I see women over 50 making and some tips on how to overcome them.

Women over 50 struggle with fashion. Be it age or something else finding a look is hard. Here are the top fashion mistakes made and tips for overcoming them. - Daily Fashion Muse

Believing you are too old to wear a trend
Oh pish posh. This is by far the biggest fashion mistake women over 50 make. It drives me crazy when women say they are too old to wear something. Who says? I say if something excites you or makes you happy by all means wear it. And while you are at it, read the book "Advanced Style: Older & Wiser". The women in this book are who I aspire to grow up and be. Not one of them believes she is too old to wear anything.
Always wearing black because it is slimming
While I won't argue that black is not slimming, wearing black head to toe after 50 can make you appear as if you already have one foot in the grave. As we age, our hair and skin get lighter. Many of us tend to stop wearing makeup as well. Maybe it's because the old eyesight is going making makeup application more challenging. I know that I suddenly need specs to do my eyes. Wearing black is only going to wash you out and make you look paler and older. Look to the fit of your clothes rather than the color if you are trying to look slimmer. The effect will be much more dramatic.
Wearing capris
Why is it that women over 50 suddenly decide that capris are the pants de rigor for their age group? Is it because they are ashamed of wearing shorts and this is the next best thing? Or maybe it is the ultimate casual pant? Structured pants do not mean it is for office only. Paired with a great pair of sneakers is not only a more modern look, but it is casual and comfortable. I found a great pair made of jersey.
Owning only one all-purpose bag
The basic black bag. Who believes that one black bag will serve every purpose? If you said yes, then I am hitting the wrong button. Can you hear it? At the very least, you should have a bag that works for fall and winter and one that works for spring and summer. Hint: Black is not for spring and summer. A light colored or canvas bag are both good options. The woven bag that is popular this season is also a great choice. An evening bag and a crossbody bag make for perfect additions to your collection.
Wearing only "sensible" shoes
Sensible does not start with the letter D. As in Danskos. I will give you that some of their sandals and booties are good-looking but it is time to take a break from the classic clog. There are so many great shoes out there with built-in support that are stylish. Superga makes a great sneaker that is fashionable and comfortable by providing adequate support. I suggest one in leather and one in canvas to cover all seasons. Changing the style of your shoes can dramatically change the whole look of your outfit.
Selecting glasses that are not conspicuous
Chances are good that when you got your first pair of glasses you were not exactly thrilled about the process. And chances are good you looked for something that would be inconspicuous. Don't think of glasses as something to be disappointed by. Treat them like a new piece of jewelry. There are prescription sites that allow you to upload a photo of your face and virtually try on glasses. Another option is trying on actual frames at home for free. These are fun ways to try on glasses that you normally would not consider. Bonus: if you are worried about an aging neck and dark circles, a statement pair of glasses draws the eye up so people focus on your eyes.
Haven't had a bra fitting since the 90's
News flash! Boobs do not stay the same size your whole life. They fluctuate just like your weight. Getting fitted for a bra at least every other year is an absolute must. And if you are holding onto any bras that are older than 5 years you need a replacement. I am telling you that you will be amazed at what a new bra can do. Getting the girls hoisted up can make you look years younger and 10 pounds lighter.
Believing loose clothing makes you look thinner
This fashion mistake is one of the biggest misconceptions I come across. Wearing loose baggy clothing does not make you look thinner. In fact, it does the exact opposite. Ideally, you want to create the illusion of an hour-glass shape. Structured clothing does not mean tight-fitting. A well-fitted garment will skim the body and add definition where you need it. So let's make a pact that you will throw out all of your tents in your closet.

If all of this feels a bit overwhelming and leaves you feeling as if you have nothing to wear contact me. You can schedule an appointment where I will come and go through your closet with you item by item. I will show you how to determine what works and does not work for your body type. You can even schedule an appointment where I will go shopping with you. If you are not in Greater Seattle area try downloading my workbook. It takes you through a step by step process for editing your wardrobe. Better yet, sign up for my online personal styling services. A monthly service where I will create outfits for you based on what you own and recommendations on what to add. Click here for more information.