One of the main fashion trends for this season will centre around the structured shoulders in dresses and jackets. You might be forgiven for thinking that this is Dynasty reborn but there is, as always, a subtle difference in the shape of the shoulder. The emphasis is on structure and not bulk so I’m afraid that if you have an old 80′s jacket you have decided is now vintage desirable, then I wouldn’t risk an outing in it if you really want to look current. This, of course, is even more important if you wore the jacket the first time around and loved it and are not quite sure what to put with it now. A more classic jacket also lends itself perfectly to the nautical theme seen on the runways this season (when is this never not chic?).
The fact is that these shoulders are quite hard to pull off if you are over 50 and bigger than a 14 so a safer bet would be to go for a long or short jacket with sharp striuctured tailoring but a more moderate shoulder that won’t date and will be more adaptable, especially if you choose one of your best basic colours such as navy, black or beige. Make sure always that you pay attention to proportions and keep the silhouette neat and unfussywhether it’s your daytime or night time look.
Nude layers are much more attractive for the older fashionista and are bang up to date so layer on the neutrals in soft peaches, creams, beiges and pinks from head to toe especially if they are the colours that always flatter you anyway. Otherwise go for the latest bright colours such as electric blue, lime, violet, fuschia etc. to look right up to date. An easy way to do this is to keep your main outfit in a basic colour and add a pop of colour with accessories such as bag, shoes or scarf and remember that these days the ruyles about matching up have largely gone out the window.
Graphic print can look very chic and modern especially in neutral black, white or grey and word has it that black and white will figure largely at the races this year (so if you want to stand out add that pop of colour or choose one of the brighrter colours for the whole outfit). Some of these print can lend themselves very well to the tribal or safari look that is once again on trend.
Muted metallics are fashionable for day or night and these pieces can be a great investment for now and the future. The soft sheen give an air or luxury and a glow to the skin but just be aware that too tinselly or shiney can be quite ageing. Soft metallic separates teamed with casuals can create a sporty/luxurious look that is very this season.
Denim is distressed and that’s just what we 50 plusses look like in it so don’t go there. If you have a neat denim jacket, however, that can come out this year.
Be careful with the harem pants, once again they have to be incorporated into a complete outfit and not worn with your pink gingham shirt and skinny leg pants and spray on leggings are best left for the girls.
As for accessories the soft draping scarf is big this season and is great for adding interest and colour to your outfit. Just make sure it’s in a fine, soft fabric that drapes.
Heels, platforms and gladiator sandals are still with us this year as are glamourous jewelled flats.
Jewellery is still big and bold and the more the better so pile it on and make a style statement all your own!