How To Avoid Looking Frumpy When You're Over 50 (2024)

As a woman over 50, it can be easy to feel like you’ve lost touch with the latest fashion trends. Many of you no longer have the energy or desire to dress up. I went through a phase where “I don’t care” was my mantra, and it showed. Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean we have to lose our sense of style and start dressing frumpy. So, here are some tips on how to avoid looking frumpy and to feel confident and stylish at any age.

It’s natural to want to feel comfortable and relaxed, especially if you’ve worked hard for decades and earned the right to take it easy. However, it’s important to remember that you’re still a vibrant, vital woman with a lot to offer, and how you dress can greatly impact your confidence and overall well-being. Just because I’m a fashion blogger doesn’t mean I haven’t had my share of fashion faux pas. I looked back at some of my outfits and thought, “what were you thinking?” Instead of hiding these outfits in the dark archives, I’m showing you a few so we can all learn how to avoid looking frumpy, no matter our age.

Tips for How to Not Look Frumpy

1. Avoid Baggy or Ill-Fitting Clothing

Oversized clothing is trending. But that doesn’t mean you need to wear a tent. One of the most obvious signs that you’re looking frumpy is if your clothes are too big or too small. Clothes that are too big can make you look shapeless and unkempt, while clothes that are too small can be uncomfortable and unflattering. Please pay attention to the fit of your clothes and make sure they’re the right size for your body. Frumpy clothing often looks shapeless and lacks structure, which can make you look and feel older than you are. Instead, invest in a few well-made pieces that fit you well. This will help to enhance your natural shape and give you a more polished, put-together look. It’s worth splurging on a few key pieces that you’ll wear over and over again. Some items worth investing in are good-fitting jeans, a blazer or a cardigan to help define a waist, a little black dress (maybe a shift or fit and flare), and a white button-up shirt. My What Are The Best Jeans For Women Over 50 post has several pairs of jeans that are an investment but will last you for years.

2. Experiment With Different Styles and Trends and Avoid Looking Frumpy

I swear this top was in style at some point, but it must have been long ago. 😳 Fashion trends come and go, and staying current is important if you don’t want to look frumpy. Just because you’re over 50 doesn’t mean you have to stick to a particular style or dress a certain way. Sometimes we dress frumpy because we are caught in a time warp. Take the opportunity to try out different trends and styles that suit your personal taste and make you feel confident and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces to create your own unique look. My goal has always been to see if I can help you find clothes that flatter your body and suit your personal style while pushing you to try new styles and trends. Some of the coming trends are tassels, big bows, patchwork jeans, and neon colors, but I wouldn’t spend a fortune on them unless you love them.

3. Add color to your wardrobe

While black can be slimming, wearing too much of it can make you look older. Instead, try adding other colors to your wardrobe to mix things up. You know I love bright colors and bold patterns; they can add a pop of personality to your outfit and help you look more youthful and vibrant. However, be mindful of what colors suit your skin tone and body shape, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and tones as long as they make you feel confident and comfortable.

4. Do Not Wear Wrinkled Or Soiled Clothing

Another sign that you might be looking frumpy is if your clothes are wrinkled or stained. In my defense, this photo was taken at a try-on session at the retailer. But, you can see how this makes you look sloppy and unkempt. This is the “I don’t care” look we are trying to avoid. This is an easy fix; just make sure to iron or steam your clothes and remove any stains before you leave the house. Crisp, sharp creases are not in style, but an ironed, wrinkle-free look will always be a classic. However, if you’re wearing linen, don’t worry about those wrinkles; they are supposed to be there.

5. Add Accessories To Avoid Looking Frumpy

It is hard to look frumpy when you add accessories. Accessories are a great way to add interest to an outfit and help you look more put-together. People who look put-together don’t look frumpy!!! Consider adding a statement piece, such as a bold necklace or a colorful scarf, to add some personality to your look. I love large earrings, but if you prefer small hoops, try a large necklace, handbag, or a scarf. Switching up your bag or shoes gives your outfit a fresh, updated feel. Remember to choose pieces that suit your personal style or the event you’re attending so that you’ll feel comfortable and confident.

6. Embrace Your Personal Style and Avoid Looking Frumpy

Similar White Blazer || Similar Black Shirt || Bootcut Jeans || Similar Tory Burch Tote || Black Block Heels || Maggie Earrings

Being true to yourself is what is most important. It doesn’t matter if you prefer to dress in a classic, polished look, or if you prefer a relaxed, boho style. It is your personal taste and how what you choose to wear that makes you unique. Being you is what makes you feel confident and comfortable in your clothing. Don’t worry about what other people might think – as long as you feel good in your clothes, that’s all that matters.

You can avoid looking frumpy and feel confident and stylish at any age. So let’s embrace our inner fashionista and show the world our true style and grace!

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