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Dressing appropriately at any age

Don’t let your age dictate what you wear, but also don’t completely ignore the fact that you’re aging either. To look your best, follow these fashion tips for dressing stylishly and appropriately at any age.

Flatter your body shape

No matter if you are 20 or 60, you should always consider your body shape and figure flaws before purchasing clothes. Check out the Loving You style guide to determine your body shape and find the most flattering apparel for you.

Learn about color

Not every color of clothing looks good on every woman. Your hair color, eye color and skin tone factor in when determining the ideal clothing colors for you. Wearing the right colors can make your skin look younger, your hair color look richer and your overall appearance look its best. The wrong colors can make you look older and washed out. Style Makeover HQ has a fabulous article on seasonal color analysis that will help you determine your color range and find colors that flatter your skin, hair and eyes. Also, read the aforementioned style guide for makeup and fashion tips suited just for you.

Wear clothes that fit

One of the biggest mistakes women make as they get older (or heavier) is to wear clothes that are too big. Oversized clothes don’t flatter any body type or size. The best clothes are those that fit properly, skimming your body but not clinging. Follow these other tips to dress yourself thinner at any age.

Develop a signature style

Look great no matter your age by developing a signature style — something memorable about your look that is uniquely yours. Your signature look can be a specific piece (for example, Anna Wintour’s sunglasses), a fashion theme (Mary Kate Olsen’s boho look), a particular hairstyle, a makeup look or even just a color. Read on to learn more about how to develop a signature style.

Accept change

As we get older, things change. Not only do most women gain some weight as they get older, but our bodies change in a number of other ways. For example, skin can become looser — particularly in the upper arms, neck, decolletage and knees. The key to looking your best is to wear clothes that hide problem areas, while showing off your best features. Also consider coloring changes in your skin and hair. If your hair has become cooler and your skin a little duller as you’ve gotten older, avoid bright or warm colors and look for cooler colored apparel and makeup.

Don’t try to be too trendy

Build your wardrobe with these staple pieces:

  • Tailored pantsuit
  • Black trousers
  • White button-down shirt
  • Dark wash jeans
  • Little black dress
  • Slim skirt
  • Cardigan sweater
  • Low-heeled pumps
  • Knee-high boots
  • Diamond stud or pearl earrings
  • Leather satchel
  • Evening clutch
  • Classic sunglasses

These are timeless pieces that are worth investing in, no matter your age. From there, you can add trendy accessories and other inexpensive pieces that are suitable for your age, lifestyle and personality. For example, a college student might love a laptop bag in a wild print, stacks of colorful bangle bracelets and graphic tees. A woman in her 30s or 40s might adore scarves, hats and figure-flattering tunics, while an older woman or retiree might need a roomy tote and plenty of comfy shoes.

Dress for you

Instead of worrying about what other people think about your look, dress for you. Of course, there are some general guidelines for dressing your age — a micro-mini skirt, low-cut top and juvenile prints are best left for the teenagers and 20-something gals. However, a confident woman — no matter her age — can rock almost anything.

More style tips for dressing your age

Dress age-appropriate this year
Timeless styles that look great at any age

Top 15 ways to be the hot mom

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