Are you too old to wear denim? (2024)

While the short answer is ‘no’, and the long answer is still ‘no’, wearing denim in certain ways is better than others as you get older.

You’ve probably noticed denim never goes out of fashion. In some way, shape or form, it reinvents itself and reappears every season. While often associated with young, slim girls, in actual fact, anyone can pull off denim provided they pick the right pieces. So how should you make denim work for you when you’re over 40?

Avoid

Anything too junior. Nothing screams mutton dressed as lamb more than wearing denim that was designed for your daughter. This includes denim dresses, pinafores, overalls, playsuits or jumpsuits – in fact probably anything with the words ‘denim’ and ‘suit’ in the same sentence is best to steer clear of, including, of course, denim cut offs, also know as denim mini shorts. It’s one of the least flattering and hardest trends to pull off – approximately one per cent of world looks good in them. And, unsurprisingly, the majority of that one per cent seems to be in the under 30 age group.

Embrace

Now that we’re done with the negative or ‘bad’ news, if you will, here’s the good news.

Denim jackets

They’ve made a big comeback this year and look great on women of all ages. Hit the high-street stores and try on a couple until you find the right wash and shape for you. I picked up a fantastic one from Zara in a classic light blue wash that I’ve worn to death. The perfect transeasonal jacket, it looks great with white or black jeans or over a dress when it gets chilly. When choosing the size, make sure you leave enough room to layer it over jumpers too.

Denim skirts

Slightly trickier than the jacket, denim skirts have made a resurgence thanks to the resurrection of seventies fashion. While you’d be forgiven for thinking denim skirts only look good on young girls with legs up to their armpits, this simply isn’t true. Avoid the mini skirt and opt for a longer style that hits just above or below the knee. When it comes to shape, A-line skirts are very popular at the moment, which allow for a ladylike and flattering end result.

Jeans

Despite popular belief, jeans look great on ladies of all ages – it’s a wardrobe staple. While finding the perfect pair can instil fear into the most seasoned shopper, once you’ve got your legs in them, it’s often the start of a beautiful friendship.

Dedicate some time to researching what’s out there and which styles will work best for you. Don’t rush the buying process either – try on as many pairs as you can and test out different shapes and washes. The quest for the perfect pair of jeans should be approached like in the way one would find their future husband: while it may be tedious at the time, it will be worth it in the end. What is it they say? As the saying goes: you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince.

Why not read my article on buying the right jeans to make life easier.

Do you wear denim much? If so what styles have you found work best for you? And how do you wear them? We’d love to hear your thoughts and tips in the comments section.