The real secrets of dressing glamorously over 50

Most of us develop our own unique sense of style over many years and this does not have to be abandoned just because we have hit 50+. As we age our colouring and body shape change – even if your dress size is pretty much the same. It’s only natural there will be areas that you no longer feel happy to show off – with most women this is usually the top of the arms and shoulders. We all like to dress up and you can still look glamorous – you just need to follow a few rules.

Hayden Gwynne, actor wearing Elizabeth Bessant couture dress and jacket with matching accessories

My top 8 tips for ‘putting on the Ritz’ for older women:

1. Your favourite little black dress for a glamorous night out may no longer be kind to your complexion. A dark navy is a good alternative and there is a shade and tone to suit everyone. If you still want to wear black, keep it away from your face unless you are one of the lucky few who can still get away with it.

2. The key to looking classy and elegant is to show a little skin and highlight your best asset it could be your legs, arms, back or cleavage – but not all at the same time.

3. Wrap dresses, skater dresses, empire line and shirt style with sleeves all work well. The V neck of a wrap dress is a good choice if you have a big top half, it also flatters the waist and glides over the hips.

Hayden Gwynne, actor wearing Elizabeth Bessant couture empire line dress with Swarovski crystal belt
Navy sequin 1920’s inspired cocktail dress by Elizabeth Bessant couture

4. Avoid strapless or spaghetti straps unless you have toned arms as bingo wings are not a good look.

5. If you are comfortable with your legs a side split will add evening glamour without showing too much leg.

6. Patterns should be subtle and smaller in scale – a small check, tweed or plaid can add panache to your outfit. If you are tempted to wear a bold pattern keep the rest of your outfit and accessories simple to create a classic, timeless, sophisticated look that is stylish.

7. Resist the temptation to hide extra pounds under voluminous, loose, ill fitting clothes. This will only achieve the opposite effect and make you look heavier. Don’t go to the other extreme and wear clothes that are too tight either – remember it’s not the size on the label but the fit that matters.

8. If you love sparkle and want to wear sequins gold is kinder than silver to older skin, navy sequins are also very sophisticated but unless you are slim it is probably better not to go for the top to toe look. A sparkly pair of evening shoes or jewellery might be all you need to lift an outfit.

Remember fashion should be your friend, it should accentuate your positives and camouflage your negatives, and most importantly of all you should feel comfortable in what you are wearing.