As we get older, our bodies change—and so do our desires, especially when it comes to fashion. It's not uncommon to want to embrace a new style to mark this new chapter in life.
But how should you dress at 60? What are the key things to consider when building your ideal wardrobe? What should you pay special attention to when creating your looks? Should you follow fashion trends?
We share everything you need to know about fashion for women 60 and over!
Do you know your body shape at 60?
When wondering how to dress at 60, the first thing to do is to know your body shape. In practice, this means discovering your body type. A, H, 8, or X: what are the characteristics of each body shape?
A-shaped body
The A-shaped body is the most common. It refers to women whose hips are wider than their shoulders. Women with an A-shaped silhouette also often have a small bust, fuller thighs, and a rounded bottom.
The A-shaped body is also known as the pyramid or triangle body shape.
To balance your silhouette, choose clothes that add a bit of volume to the upper body.
> Also read: What is an A-shaped body?
H-shaped body
H-shaped body types are characterized by:
- Hips and shoulders aligned;
- A waist that is barely defined.
Women with an H-shaped body are often slender and tall. But of course, there are exceptions. Some women in their 60s with an H-shaped silhouette may have fuller curves around the bust.
To redefine your figure, you can soften the waist with loose-fitting tops or create the illusion of a waist by adding volume to the lower body.
> Also read: How to dress well with an H-shaped body?
8-shaped body
An 8-shaped body is defined by a marked waist, with shoulders and hips in line. Women with this shape usually have generous curves, with a full bust and hips.
This body type is often considered the most sexy and glamorous. And to top it off, it's also the easiest silhouette to dress—almost everything works! High-waisted pants, sheath dresses, you name it: everything is a style win.
> Also read: Which clothes suit an 8-shaped body?
X-shaped body
The X-shaped body is very similar to the 8-shaped body. The main difference is a slimmer frame. X-shaped silhouettes are less curvy.
V-shaped body
Women with a V-shaped body have broader shoulders and a slimmer waist. Some might think this body type is less feminine because of its structure, but that's far from true. Celebrities like actress Cameron Diaz or supermodel Naomi Campbell, for example, are extremely feminine and always on trend.
Unlike the A-shaped silhouette, you'll often want to balance out a V-shaped body by adding volume to the lower half.
> Also read: How to dress for a V-shaped body?
Should you follow fashion trends at 60?
Trying to follow every fashion trend is exhausting and constantly encourages overconsumption. It's not good for your wallet or your personal well-being.
It's also worth noting that not every fashion trend is worth following, nor are they suited to every age. For example, the wave of crop tops (short tops that reveal the lower stomach) is clearly not designed for fashion lovers aged 60 and over. At this stage, women are less likely to want to wear outfits that show their midriff. The same goes for jeans with ripped details. After a certain age, they're rarely seen as elegant, and few women over 60 appreciate them.
To dress well at 60, it's best to embrace your own style—ideally timeless—so you can feel elegant all year round. When creating your looks, focus on clothes that are:
- Well-cut and tailored to your body shape;
- Colors that highlight your best features;
- Quality fabrics that stand the test of time;
- Comfortable clothes that make you feel good (energy levels tend to decrease with age, so it's essential to have pieces that are easy to put on and wear).
Does your wardrobe include the essential basics?
What are the must-have pieces in a 60-year-old woman's wardrobe for dressing with style? Let's take a look.
- Jeans and high-waisted pants
When it comes to jeans, raw denim is a timeless staple that always looks modern. As for styles, boyfriend and mom jeans are classic must-haves.
For pants, 7/8 and cigarette cuts usually work wonders for the silhouette of women at 60.
- The Breton top
A classic that goes with everything and is a great alternative to plain tees. You can also have fun with other patterned t-shirts, as long as they're not too flashy.
- Shirts
Shirts are the ultimate elegant pieces. They're perfect for women wondering how to dress at 60. Choose a fitted style to highlight your waist, or go for a looser cut for a more relaxed vibe.
The must-have base color is white, a timeless shade that outlasts every trend. You can then branch out into other tones to create bolder looks.
- The shirt dress and the wrap dress
These types of dresses make it easy to create a chic and elegant look effortlessly.
When it comes to skirts, you can't go wrong with a pencil skirt!
- Jackets
A stylish woman's wardrobe at 60 wouldn't be complete without a beautiful collection of jackets. These fashion pieces help structure and finish an outfit, but above all, they add a touch of elegance.
The essentials for a chic look are:
- trench coats;
- blazers;
- the tweed jacket with a tailored waist;
- fitted leather jackets.
- Scarves
As we age, it's not uncommon for the appearance of the neck to change. If you'd like to conceal it because it makes you self-conscious, feel free to wear scarves. Not only do they add a refined touch, they're also the perfect accessory to energize an outfit. A brightly colored or patterned scarf, for example, can elevate a monochrome look.
PS: Don't forget to complete your looks with beautiful handbags and jewelry.
Which shoes should you choose at 60?
Sneakers have become chic and trendy, and can be worn at any age with a skirt, pants, or even a dress. There are elegant styles, as well as more urban ones if you love bold looks. Just avoid chunky sneakers, which often suit younger profiles better.
Ankle boots are also your friends, just like espadrilles for summer.
And if you happen to love pumps, don't hold back. They'll always add that special touch to an elegant outfit.
Which colors should you choose for your clothes at 60?
Colors are also an essential element when you want to dress well at 60. Among the shades to avoid for your fashion pieces, as they won't flatter you, are all neon colors and any shades that are too flashy.
Among the timeless choices, we recommend:
- navy blue
- plum
- coral
- black
- beige
- brown white
- pink.
Don't hesitate to take a color analysis test to get the full list of colors that suit you.
> Also read: Color analysis: what is it?
With all these tips, you'll have no doubt how to dress elegantly at 60.
PS: Every stage of life brings changes to your wardrobe. It's not uncommon to choose less revealing outfits as you get older, but that's not always the case for every woman. If you love necklines, short dresses, or in general pieces that highlight your feminine assets, go for it! Fashion is all about having fun and playing with styles and trends!
