Master Clothing Trends and Basics at Any Age
Every woman should be able to enjoy the latest fashion trends at any age, right? Does that mean a 50-year-old woman can wear the same head-to-toe neon outfit as Miley Cyrus? After all, neon is the big summer trend.
Image consultant and personal shopper Megan Kristel says, “There’s no limit to what you can wear at a certain age – the key is to dress appropriately for the occasion.”
Kristel, who is president of Kristel Closets, says this summer’s bright neon pinks, greens, and yellows are a fun trend for women of every age. “In your 20s you can do neons head-to-toe – knock yourself out. A 20-something young woman can make a small investment in a trend by picking it up at a store like H&M or Forever 21,” advises Kristel.
For someone in their 30s, Kristel recommends Zara, where you can find trends, but with a twist of sophistication. The way to work a neon into your wardrobe is with a single item like a bright colored, fitted blazer to go with your basics. Women who are in their 40s or older should work to accessorize their look. A woman in her 40s can choose a hot neon shoe for just the right amount of style. While women in their 50s and older may go for a neon accessory, like a clutch or cool bracelet.
“When you’re an adult, you can do whatever you want, but you just don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard. You want to show that you’re confident in your style and in what you like, but still aware of the current fashion trends,” emphasizes Kristel.
While trends are fun for adding flare to your wardrobe, Kristel advises women of every age should to invest in a few wardrobe basics including:
Great-fitting jeans: Jeans should be flattering from the rear and make you feel amazing. You can expect to spend anywhere from $80 to 200. It’s better to invest in one pair of jeans that you love than to own a stack that you don’t wear.
A well-made jacket: You can choose a fitted black blazer or a Chanel-style boucle jacket – the key is a great fit. It should be versatile enough for you to grab and throw over anything from a little black dress to jeans and a t-shirt.
Neutral heels and/or flats: A neutral shoe should match your skin tone to create the appearance of a longer leg. In terms of flats, neutral tones with a pointy toe, black patent leather or an animal prints are good basic choices.
A dress: Choose a dress that works for your body type. Your best bet is often a wrap dress or a v-neck in a good-quality fabric that feels great against your skin and skims the body. In terms of color, go with a solid but stay away from black. Instead, try a chocolate, navy or dark-grey dress. Kristel’s tip: Most department stores have a dress department, but you won’t find the best dresses there. Instead go to the section of the store that houses designer collections, like Elie Tahari, where you will find a higher quality dress that isn’t repeated every season.
“Make sure that what you buy is the best quality that you can afford,” suggests Kristel. The way that you present yourself to the world is a reflection of where you are in your life, and how you feel about yourself. Be confident. Know who you are and acknowledge that you are worth the investment.