15 Essential Wardrobe Items: Fashion for Women Over 50

Silvana Patrick
by Silvana Patrick

In this style guide, we’re going to discuss fashion for women over 50, and specifically 15 pieces that I think every woman in their 50s should have. I will be showing you some timeless pieces that will help you to build a foundation that will make getting dressed much easier, that flatter your form, and that you can rely on throughout the seasons.


Tailored blazer

1. Fitted blazer

A blazer is the one piece that really matters, but it’s not any old blazer that will do the trick. In order for it to elevate any look, it has to be perfectly tailored. It cannot be snug around the neck if you want to layer it with other pieces in winter. Pay attention to the length and the sleeves.

Black boots

2. Black boots

You can never go wrong with black boots: high, low, over-the-knee, whatever you prefer. 

Peplum top

3. Peplum top

The peplum style top is very flattering for most body types because it highlights your waist and makes you look slimmer. This dress here has a boat neck, which is flattering on the neckline and makes your shoulders look wider.

Animal print blouse

4. Animal print

Another thing that's very flattering for balancing out your figure is to have at least one animal print piece in your outfit. Elect the one or two prints that most resonate with you. I particularly like a silk blouse in an animal print, but the safest way to start with an animal print would be in a form of a scarf or something smaller.

Floral print dress

5. Print dress

Don't be afraid of print or bold colors. Remember the larger the pattern, the larger you will appear, so opt for smaller, daintier patterns and try to go for timeless prints that won't go out of style - polka dots and stripes are two good examples of this.

Classic trench coat

6. Trench coat 

A trench coat is such a must in every woman's wardrobe. It's a classic piece that you can pop on top of any outfit. No matter how casual or formal it is, it will make you look stylish and put-together.

Statement coat

7. Statement coat

I like to take it one step further and go for something completely unexpected like an oversized denim trench coat.

Clothing styles for women over 50

Look for a design that can be very wearable for you and wear it as you would wear a black or camel-colored coat. Believe me, the more you wear it, the more you realize how just versatile a statement coat can be.

Cropped pants

8. Cropped pants

It is important to find a pair of cropped pants that not only fit your body shape but also flatters your hips and thighs; it could be a straight-leg, tapered fit, or a wide-leg.


What I love the most about cropped pants is that it gives you the chance to highlight your shoes. When you find a pair of pants that look good on you, I suggest buying them in two different colors.

Satin skirt

9. Satin skirt

One of my favorite skirts to have is a satin skirt. These skirts give that sophisticated edge to your look and you can easily dress them up or down. 

Stylish women's clothing over 50

They will also go with the other pieces that we’ve discussed - a fitted blazer, peplum top, or an animal print silk top. You can also just style them with a t-shirt, sneakers, and denim jacket on the weekend.

White shirt

10. White shirt

Not only restricted to the boardroom, a white shirt is an essential piece thanks to its ability to instantly polish an outfit.

Oversized white shirt

11. Oversized white shirt

An oversized version offers a directional twist and an interesting element. Dressed up or down, it's a guaranteed success.

Strappy sandals with a square toe

12. Strappy sandals

For me, there are no other more quintessentially chic shoes than strappy sandals. Go for a square toe for the ultimate modern touch.

Utilitarian jumpsuit

13. Jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is the perfect piece to replace a dress and I have a sweet spot for utilitarian style ones in a neutral color such as khaki or beige. It's fantastic for layering and I love it with a turtleneck. I think it has such an effortlessly cool vibe.

Silk scarf

14. Scarves

Accessories are key when it comes to styling; they are the icing on the cake. You don't need to overdo it, but the right amount of accessories will insert your personality into a look and create some more interest. Scarves, especially silk ones, are a gorgeous accessory that can finish off your outfit.

Fashion for women over 50

15. Chain bag

Another must-have item in any elegant woman's wardrobe is a chain bag, immortalized by Coco Chanel. When buying a bag, make sure that it is structured and of great quality.


Fashion for women over 50

There we have 15 styles that every woman over 50 should have. These 15 pieces will give you a strong foundation upon which to build. Once that foundation is set in place, you can then go ahead and add in other styles and trends that appeal to you.

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  • Silvana Patrick Silvana Patrick on Sep 06, 2022

    Good morning Bonita! Lovely to hear from you and that you found the video inspiring :) Enjoy the rest of your week x

  • Roberta Roberta on Sep 14, 2022

    Very nice presentation! Many of the looks are just not my style. But that doesn't mean it isn't inspiring. I am just not the preppy type. I am an aging flower child. Tie dye, tunics, distressed jeans, paisleys. I just read an article called something like fashion mistakes for women over 50, and they say to run from floral prints. They age you 10 years the minute you put them on. I love florals. And bright colors! Thank you for sharing! 🌈🌻💕😊🕊️✌️


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