Sometimes minimalism can get a bad rap as being “boring,” when really the opposite is true! There’s something to be said about how a minimal outfit can outshine a busy look with the right styling and pieces. Even with less layers and less going on, a minimal outfit can look more expensive, polished and put-together than an outfit full of color, accessories, and luxury items. Because there’s less to work with in a minimal look, quality is everything. And that’s what we’ll be covering today! If you’re going for a minimal, yet elegant look in your 50s and beyond, keep reading for 9 styles for women over 50 that you should be paying attention to.
1. Add an intentional pop of color
A pop of color is quite literally a game-changer when it comes to simple, minimalist outfits. There’s no one right way to incorporate a burst of color into your neutral look, but all the same, it will definitely make a difference in elevating your whole ensemble. The key, however, is to be intentional.
How can you thoughtfully add a pop of color to your look? First, pay attention to undertones. Most of the time, coordinating the undertones of your pieces leads to a more harmonious aesthetic. The look above features warm undertones – in the rusty red of her bag, her brown jacket, and her gold jewelry.
Second – limit yourself when adding color. If you’re going for an elegant aesthetic, don’t go all in on bright shades. Instead, choose one vibrant tone and keep the rest of your look neutral. You can choose one or more colorful pieces, but stick to the same color palette. If you choose red, for example, choose red shoes and a red bag, paired with the rest of your neutral items.
quince
Italian Leather Double Strap Shoulder Bag
2. Mix and match textures
When it comes to making neutral, minimalist looks more interesting, you have to get a little bit creative. Because you’re not relying on bold color combinations or patterns, you have to think of a new way to personalize your outfit and add dimension! One of the best ways to do this when you’re planning styles for women over 50? Mix and match the textures of your pieces.
Creating interesting combinations with your fabrics is one of the best tricks you can use to instantly upgrade a minimalist outfit. Even if you’re just wearing your favorite classics, different fabrics will make you look more put-together, and your style more intentional. And, fall is the perfect time of year to play around with rich fabrics like suede, smooth leather, patent leather, faux fur, corduroy, etc. The look above includes a few of these: patent leather slingback heels, a suede trench coat, a knit turtleneck, and a smooth leather bag. It’s almost an entirely neutral outfit (save for the bag), but it still shows off her personal style in a unique way.
sezane
Paula Babies
3. Embrace a signature piece of jewelry
A signature piece of clothing, jewelry, or a fragrance might just be one of my favorite markers of style and sophistication. Having a signature anything indicates that you know yourself well, and you’ve taken the time to discover what you truly enjoy – and to me, that’s one of the best things to come with age and experience!
Even if you have a minimalist wardrobe and collection of accessories, having a signature piece of jewelry that you wear most days, if not every day, is a great way to elevate your overall personal style. This could be any type of jewelry, too! A pair of pearl stud earrings, a small pair of gold hoops, a cocktail ring, or a bracelet watch are all chic, minimalist pieces that can complement your everyday outfits.
amazon
Small Gold Watch for Women
4. Know your best neutrals
Another style strategy that comes with time and experience? Knowing your colors! Whether you figure out your best colors on your own or go to a professional to have them done, knowing your best neutrals will help you build a capsule wardrobe that highlights all of your best features.
Not all of us look best in classic black and white – for example, I’ve learned that navy and light tans flatter my face more than higher contrast shades. If you’re styling minimalist looks with basic pieces, knowing the right color palette to use will make every outfit you put together look better, and with little added effort!
everlane
The Oversized Blazer in Buttersmooth
5. Invest in your basics
Even though you may be tempted to splurge on the really unique pieces that you come across while shopping, I always recommend paying close attention to your basics instead! If you’re going for a clean, simplified look over 50, quality basics are what will make you look more expensive and polished all around. They’ll fit better, wash better, and look better while you’re wearing them. Plus, they’ll hold up better over time – meaning you won’t be purchasing the same white t-shirt again and again.
In the long run, you might even end up saving money by investing in your basics at the start! Even if you’re styling a simple look with jeans, a coat, a turtleneck and boots, if they’re quality pieces, you’ll look that much more elevated and elegant.
everlane
The Boxy Turtleneck in Cashmere
6. Incorporate subtle patterns
A surefire way to keep a minimalist look from being boring? Adding a subtle pattern! Of course, the word subtle here is key. Anything too loud might distract from your streamlined, polished aesthetic, so it’s usually best to keep to patterns that complement your solid pieces, rather than detract from them.
Polka dots, plaid, stripes, leopard print… these are all great examples of more muted patterns that can complement a neutral wardrobe. Especially if they’re neutral patterns themselves! A leopard print trench might make a statement, but the neutral tones mean it still looks classic and elegant when paired with classic jeans and a black turtleneck.
nordstrom
Animal Print Trench Coat
7. Prioritize your outerwear
If you want your style to make a good first impression, let your outerwear do the talking! When dressing for cold weather, your coat or jacket will always be the first thing that catches the eye – so it’s worth making sure that it not only reflects your personal style, but that it’s also made with quality materials and is a good fit. These little details go a long way in impacting your overall look. If there is one piece that you have to choose to spend a little more on, let it be your coat if you live in a cold winter climate!
j.crew
Scarf Coat
8. Add shape when there is none
Oversized pieces can get a bad rap if you’re going for a flattering look – but don’t let that deter you! Oversized tops and bottoms can give you a cool, effortless aesthetic; you just have to be sure to style them correctly. Otherwise, they might look a little frumpy or as if they’re drowning your figure rather than complementing it.
The simple solution to styling oversized pieces? Add shape where you can! One of the easiest ways to do this is around your waist. Adding a belt goes far in making your outfit look more tailored and slimming. Tucking your shirt accomplishes the same thing. The goal is to create shape where there would otherwise be none. Whether you’re styling a sweater and trousers or an oversized coat and jeans, these little styling tips and tricks will make you look that much more put-together.
j.crew
Oval Buckle Belt in Italian Leather
9. Don’t neglect personal comfort
This last tip is subjective – because it’s all about your personal comfort! The secret to feeling confident and rocking every look is to feel good about what you’re wearing. Being comfortable in your own wardrobe will do wonders for how your clothes look on you.
Don’t feel comfortable in heels? Try chic loafers or flats instead! Not into dresses? Blazers, jeans and a white t-shirt look just as chic. Hate wearing black? Go for navy or brown instead! Great style is subjective, and style isn’t one-size-fits-all. The trick is to find what makes you feel your best, and wear those pieces! That’s how you find your own style uniform.
j.crew
New Winona Penny Loafers
Finding Your Best Style Over 50
Class, what did we learn today? That’s right! Minimal does not equal boring. There’s a lot to love about having a small selection of wardrobe pieces that you wear again and again. Repetition and simple looks don’t have to be uninteresting – following these simple tips will help you make your favorite outfit formulas your own!
Ready for more style advice created with your sophisticated style over 50 in mind? Up Next: Elegant Accessory Styling Tips Every Woman Over 40 Needs
