Many of us just might be staring at our closet full of clothes that just don't quite feel right. As we grow older, our style evolves, and some wardrobe staples that once looked fabulous may no longer be the most flattering choices after hitting the age of 50. Today, we’re going to talk about 10 items that you may want to consider ditching from your wardrobe after turning the big 5-0. From skinny jeans to high heels, we'll explore why these pieces may no longer work for you and offer some stylish alternatives to elevate your look. It's time to reassess our closets and make some strategic edits to ensure that our style reflects our confidence and sophistication at this stage in life.
In today’s post, Beth shares the 10 Wardrobe Items to Ditch After 50
With shoppable collections of what to wear instead
Look for shoppable outfit inspiration, too
Okay, this is still a controversial subject, but dare I say you may want to reconsider keeping skinny jeans in your wardrobe post-50. While this style has been a staple for many years, it may not be the most flattering or comfortable option as we age. Skinny jeans can feel constricting as our bodies change and may not provide the most flattering silhouette. It's time to explore more age-appropriate options that still offer style and comfort. And when it comes to jeans, there are a variety of options. Opt instead for straight-leg jeans, bootcut jeans, and flares.
Wide-Leg Jeans L to R: Crop Wide Leg Jeans | Pintuck High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans | Sailor Slim Wide-Leg Jeans | Emmett Wide-Leg Crop Jeans
Bootcut & Flare Jeans L to R: Barely Boot Jeans | Demi Boot Crop Jeans | Kick Out Crop Jeans | Flea Market Flare Jeans
Straight-Leg Jeans L to R: Straight-Leg Jeans | Classic Straight Jeans | ‘90s Straight Jean | Everyday Relaxed Jean
Crop tops may have been a fun and trendy choice in our younger years, although I don’t think I ever owned a crop top even in my 20s. I’ve always been an old soul and have loved timeless style since a teen. You may have loved crop tops in years gone by, but as we age, our fashion choices should evolve with us. For women over 50, crop tops may not be the most ideal option for a polished and sophisticated look. Instead of baring your midriff, opt for tops that provide more coverage and support. A crisp button-up or silk top will never steer you wrong. For summer, a classic tee is your friend. For winter, I love to wear turtlenecks.
Pink Linen Button Up (similar color here)
Mini skirts, once a staple in our youthful wardrobes, may not be the most flattering or practical choice for women over 50. I had a jean mini skirt from Ralph Lauren I wore on style repeat all summer long. I also had a pair of paisley ballet flats also from Ralph that I wore with it. It’s the yin and yang of fashion. The higher the hemline the lower the heel height. But as we age, our bodies and style preferences change and we might not feel comfortable wearing a mini skirt.
Instead, consider opting for skirts that hit at or below the knee for a more elegant and sophisticated look. Now I’m not saying don’t wear skirts above the knee. I have countless skirts that I wear regularly that are one to two inches above the knee. But if you want an elegant, sophisticated look, then think knee-length or midi skirts which are having a moment in 2024.
Knee Length L to R: Jersey A-Line Skirt | Pleated Skirt in Crepe de Chine | Embroidered Linen A-Line Skirt | Belted Button Wrap Pencil Skirt
Midi Skirts L to R: Gingham Midi Pencil Skirt | Paisley Midi Skirt | Pleated Wrap Skirt | Striped Wrap Column Skirt
Maxi Skirts L to R: Jersey Maxi Skirt | Linen Cotton Skirt | Poplin Pull-On Skirt | Belted Button Pocket Skirt
Another item to consider parting ways with after turning 50 is overly distressed denim. While distressed jeans can add a casual and edgy vibe to an outfit, excessive rips, tears, and fraying can come across as too sloppy. Opt for a more polished pair of jeans that still offer a stylish look without the over-the-top distressing. If you like extra details on your denim, look for patchwork or appliqué styles that are playful, whimsical, and add a touch of originality to your outfit. Or if you want to dip your toe in distressed denim, try a raw hem style.
High heels, once a symbol of power and femininity, may not be the best choice for women over 50. As we age, wearing high heels can be uncomfortable and risky. Not to mention the impact that years of wearing heels can have on our joints and posture. Consider opting for stylish and comfortable flats or low-heeled shoes that still look chic without causing unnecessary strain on your feet and back. Block heels and wedges are my go-tos when it comes to comfortable shoes that also add height. But I’m here to tell you that I still rock a high heel now and then when I go out in the evening. It’s a goal of mine to wear heels until the day I die. I’m just not on my feet all day in a pair of heels.
Flats L to R: Tinsley Woven Metallic Ballet Flats | Straw Covered Buckle Slingbacks | Finite Water Resistant Raffia Loafer | Bernardo Metallic Sandals
Kitten Heels L to R: Faiza Sandal | Elena Knot Nappa Sandals | Kaisley Kitten Heel Slingback | Kitten Heel Flip Flop
Block Heels L to R: Layne Strappy Sandal Heels | Raffia Ruffle Heels | Straw Cap Toe Block Heels | Gwynn Block Heel Sandal
Wedges L to R: Kimmy Wedge Sandal | Made in Spain Mid-Heel Espadrille Wedges | Royce Nappa Wedge Sandals | Jack Rogers Cork Wedge Sandals
When it comes to fashion choices after turning 50, it's important to consider the impact of loud logos on your overall style. While logos can add a trendy touch to an outfit, they can sometimes come across as outdated. Style naturally evolves, and opting for more timeless pieces without prominent logos can help elevate your look with sophistication and class. This idea fits into the larger “Quiet Luxury” trend that favors more subtle looks consisting of quality materials, over loud labels.
Tight shirts are a common wardrobe staple many rely on for a fitted and stylish look. However, our bodies change in ways that make tight shirts less flattering and less comfortable. Opting for looser, more flowing tops can be more forgiving on your figure and give off a chic and sophisticated vibe. Embracing a more relaxed fit can help you feel more at ease and confident in your clothing choices.
“Who loves short shorts? We love short shorts!” Anyone remember that commercial from Nair? Well, too-short shorts can be a tricky trend to navigate as we mature. While they may have been a staple in our younger years, wearing shorts that are too short may not be a flattering style choice anymore. Instead, opt for a more tailored pair of shorts that hit at a more flattering length, such as just above the knee. I recently released a video that discusses rocking shorts after 50 because we totally can still wear shorts. It’s all about finding the right balance between comfort and style and finding the best inseam as we embrace this new stage of life. Personally, I love a 5” inseam that shows a bit of leg but still feels modest.
Another essential element of a well-rounded wardrobe is having properly fitting lingerie. As our bodies change, it's crucial to ensure that our undergarments provide the support and comfort we need. Ill-fitting bras, panties, or shapewear can not only be uncomfortable but also affect the way our clothing fits and looks on us. Investing in properly-sized undergarments can make a significant difference in how we feel and present ourselves. I always suggest a twice-yearly bra fitting session with a professional. Bras are the hardest working item in your wardrobe, they have a lifespan and will no longer fit properly after months of consistent use. So do yourself a favor and get fitted for the right-sized bra. It makes a world of difference. Check out my Guide to Buying Summer Lingerie for tips, tricks and my top picks for undergarments.
While ultra-low-rise pants may have been a trendy choice in our younger years, they may not be the most flattering option for those over 50. These pants sit very low on the hips, often revealing more skin than desired and creating a less polished look. As we age, many of us may prefer a higher rise to provide better coverage and support. High-waisted or mid-rise pants can offer a more comfortable and flattering fit, helping to accentuate our natural curves and provide a stylish silhouette. So, when updating your wardrobe staples, consider swapping out those ultra-low-rise pants for a pair of beautiful trousers that won’t give us a muffin top!
Ladies, as we age, our style evolves and it's important to adapt our wardrobe to reflect those changes. By ditching these 10 wardrobe staples after turning 50, you can elevate your style and boost your confidence. Remember, fashion is about expressing yourself at any age, so why not make sure you're doing it in a way that truly flatters you. Take a look at your closet and consider making some changes to ensure you look and feel your best every day. After all, style is not about age; it's about confidence and embracing your true self.
Yesterday, Beth shared the benefits of adding a pair of red pants to your summer wardrobe. Click the title or image below to read the article.
is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.
She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.
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