This post is sponsored by thredUP. As always, all opinions and ideas are entirely my own.
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My birthday is this month and as I approach the second half of my “fifties,” it’s surprising to realize that while I am definitely getting older, like the old adage says, I also feel a lot better about many things in my life. One thing I continue to enjoy no matter how old I get is fashion! I love all the headlines that say things like “60 Is The New 40,” or something similar, and I couldn’t agree more. Even though we may be getting a few more wrinkles and sags, we can still have style!
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As a matter of fact, I would argue that style over 50 has depth and passion that the youngsters can’t hope to compete with. :-) Style is style, at any age, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to attain it. The “fashionable fifties” (and beyond!) are well within our grasp and our wallet, thanks to thredUP! thredUP is my favorite online secondhand store, where you can find all your favorite brands for up to 90% off retail prices. We’ve teamed up with our friends at thredUP today to share a few staple pieces that women over 50 can incorporate into their fierce, fabulous, and age-appropriate wardrobe.
8 Must-Have Wardrobe Pieces For Women Over 50
1. Dark Mid-Rise Jeans
You really can’t go wrong with a great pair of dark jeans. Opt for a straight-leg or boot-cut option, and make sure they fit well on your butt and hips. (If you need to go up a size to accommodate your thighs or hips, you can always have a tailor take the waist in.) Jeans look great dressed up or down, or paired with boots, booties, or flats!
2. Fitted Pants
Wear a tailored pant for a smart and sleek look. They will flatter your figure, and make you feel super stylish! You can wear them all sorts of ways, but my favorite ways to wear fitted trousers are with a silky blouse, or with a t-shirt and jacket.
I love these sleek pink trousers by New York & Company that I found on thredUP! The original retail price for them was $55, but I snagged them for just $11.99 (a savings of 78%!) The cute grey and yellow Caslon cardigan (a brand sold through upscale retailers such as Nordstrom) was another great find. Original retail price was $60…I bought it for $14.99!
3. Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts are almost universally flattering, and they’re so versatile too! Look for a skirt that hits at your knee, and is fitted without being too tight or restrictive. Pair with a heeled shoe, like a bootie, pump, or wedge.
I can already tell that this floral pencil skirt by Talbots I found is going to get a lot of wear once the weather warms up a bit! Its original retail price was $60, but I got it on thredUP for just $9.99. (That’s a discount of 83% for those keeping track at home!) ;-)
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4. Cardigans
If you’ve been following my blog for any amount of time, then you probably already know that cardigans are my personal go-to fashion piece. They’re great year-round, either for keeping warm in cooler temperatures or just for covering up your arms. Make sure your cardigan fits well, as slouchy or baggy cardigans can end up looking a bit frumpy.
I LOVE J. Crew cardigans (and the more affordable versions from J. Crew Factory), and I can’t believe I managed to find one in my size on thredUP! It originally retailed for $110–yikes! But I bought it for just $20.99, for a discount of 81%. I love how it looks with my new floral skirt, too!
5. Tank Tops
Just hear me out on this one, okay? ;-) I’m not saying I wear tank tops by themselves, but I do wear them frequently when I’m layering with a jacket, cardigan, or other outerwear. They help smooth things out in the torso area, and they can add cute and interesting detail to an outfit as well. Look for tanks that fit snugly, and that are long enough to stay tucked in to your skirts or pants.
6. Dresses
Wearing a dress is an easy way to feel fun and feminine! There are a few styles of dresses that work particularly well on women over 50: wrap, sheath, and fit-and-flare dresses. Wrap dresses should be worn with the belt tied on the side (never in front!) Sleeveless sheath dresses look great with a snug-fitting cardigan or jacket (my personal favorite look!) And finally, look for fit-and-flare dresses that hit your knees (and that have plenty of flirty swing to them, of course!)
Sebby Faux Leather Jacket: retail price $89, thredUP price $30.99.
7. Black Leather Jackets
A black leather jacket can be worn with just about anything, and they just look so cool! Shop around for one that fits well on you, and that is made well so you can wear it forever (well, almost!)
I love the look of my black leather jacket with this cute (and comfortable!) New York & Company pink skirt I found on sale on thredUP for $8.99. Original price $55.
8. Timeless Turtlenecks
Turtlenecks are another one of my fashion “go-to’s!” A black turtleneck is always sophisticated and stylish, in my opinion. They’re really versatile, and can be layered as part of a day or night look. This one by Lilla P originally retailed for $89, but I snagged it on thredUP for $11.99 (a discount of 87%).
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Additional Style Tips For Women Over 50
Here are a few more tips for dressing your best and looking fabulous after 50!
Focus on fit.
No matter your height, weight, or size, everyone looks their best in clothes that fit them correctly! If your clothes aren’t fitting quite right in certain areas, consider getting them tailored.
Add a touch of whimsy!
Just because you’re not as young as you once were, doesn’t mean you need to look serious or boring. A pop of color, a fun print, or a statement necklace, or a subtle bow can add a youthful and fun touch to any outfit!
Lean towards solids.
Solid colors will never betray you when it comes to clothes. Colors like red, grey, khaki, and camel (and of course, black and white) are timeless and flattering!
Up your underwear game.
Make sure you’re wearing the right size of bra, and consider “shape wear” when needed. Repeat after me…Spanx are our friend! :-)
Joe Fresh Long Sleeve Blouse: retail price $48, thredUP price $13.99
Sensual over sexy.
Look for sensual colors and fabrics for an alluring look that’s still age appropriate. Fabrics like silk, satin, lace, and cashmere will give you a luxe look, and rich colors like burgundy, violet, and emerald green add a splash of drama!
Go knee-length.
When shopping for dresses and skirts, choose ones that will hit you at the knees or lower. It will give you a more sophisticated look, whereas a shorter skirt may actually make you look older. (Distressing thought!)
Rykiel Karma Body and Soul Jacket: retail price $89, thredUP price $21.99.
Adrianna Papell Lace Skirt: retail price $89, thredUP price $10.99.
Don’t forget your bag.
Handbags are a timeless accessory that can complement any outfit. Anyone can tote a super trendy bag, no matter your age or size! But also keep in mind that a classic structured bag will never go out of style.
Neiman Marcus Leather satchel: retail price $286, thredUP price $55.99.
Get sassy with shoes.
A great pair of shoes is another outfit-making accessory that anyone can pull off. If you’re worried about being comfortable in a hair of high-fashion heels, get some gel insoles for added cushioning. (I can’t resist mentioning that I bought these fun Ivanka Trump kitten heels on thredUP for a steal! They were originally $109, but I got them for $17.99–that’s 83% off!)
A Special Offer For OGT Readers!
I hope these tips have inspired you to be your most fashionable self at any age! :-) If you’re curious about thredUP or want to give it a try, they are generously offering a special discount just for OGT readers! You can receive an extra 30% off your first thredUP order when you use code JILL30 at checkout. (Applies to new U.S. customers only, items under $150. Expires 2/28/18.)
I thought they were all great outfits! Super cute and loved the color!
Thank you!
why the heck you want to dress that OLD. I am 56 still feel great look great. Those are the most boring clothes!
I love these looks, but they’re not for everybody :-)
Great post. Easy enough to actually do! I have always wondered what I should be wear as an “over 50” lady. Thank you so much for your post.
Glad to know I’m on the right track
I’m 32 but I plan to apply your style tips.
This post was very inspiring.
You look absolutely fabulous!!!!
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Thank you!
Hi just wanted to say thank you on the ‘thredsup” tip. I purchased 9 articles for $80. That’s less than $10 a piece. Most were like new without signs of wear (according to description) some still with tags. Lucky brand denim jacket, Vera Wang black chunky pumps, Ann Taylor black silk cardigan. I’m so excited it’s like a kid waiting for Christmas! All returnable so dont see it as much of a risk. Will update when I receive.
How fun Leslie! I’m excited for you! :-)
wonderful article.. I like it. I suggest my wife your tips.
Although I’m a guy easing up on 30, I read your blog on a regular basis because you have great tips for organization, cleaning, and self care. You’re also very personable and easy to read.
Although this isn’t one of the posts I was drawn to your blog for, I enjoyed the read and I agreed with everything I read here. I’m glad that the troll got deleted that first posted a replied when you posted this. You look great…. and the outfit in the lace skirt is hands down my favorite in the post.
Thank you!
Great post..love your style! I am in the 2nd half of my 50^s too and wouldn’t dream of dressing old. This is a fantastic age!
Black looks great on you Jillee!
100 years ago, (a bit of hyperbole here), I had my ‘colours’ (or seasons) done. Now that I’m old, those colours don’t suit me. So, it’s a good idea to update that exercise, including your makeup.
So many women are still ‘married to their colors.’ I am glad to hear you are not one of them! I am a fashion stylist and oftentimes have to persuade women to leave their original color comfort zone.