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 exciting new chapter in life.
But how should you dress at 60? What are the key things to consider when building the perfect wardrobe? What should you pay special attention to when putting together 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 type at 60?
When wondering how to dress at 60, the first step is to know your body type. In practice, this means discovering your body shape. A, H, 8, or X: what are the features of each body type?
A-shaped body type
The A-shaped body is the most common. It refers to women whose hips are wider than their shoulders. Women with this body type 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 type.
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 type
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, especially around the bust.
To reshape 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 type
An 8-shaped body type is defined by a well-defined waist, with shoulders and hips in line. Women with this silhouette often have generous curves, with a voluptuous 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 looks great. High-waisted pants, sheath dresses, you name it: everything works when it comes to style.
> Also read: What 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. You might think this body type is less feminine because of the build, 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 pushes you to consume more. 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 all 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. Women in this age group 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 a timeless one—so you can look elegant all year round. To create your looks, focus on clothes that are:
- Well-cut pieces tailored to your body shape;
- Colors that highlight your 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 clothes that are easy to put on and wear).
Does your closet contain the essential basics?
What are the must-have pieces in a 60-year-old woman's wardrobe to dress with style? Let's take a closer look.
- Jeans and high-waisted pants
When it comes to jeans, raw denim is a timeless staple that always looks modern. As for cuts, boyfriend and mom jeans are classic essentials.
For pants, 7/8 and cigarette styles usually work wonders for the silhouette of women in their 60s.
- The Breton top
A classic that goes with everything and is a refreshing change from plain tees. You can also have fun with other patterned t-shirts, as long as they're not too busy.
- Shirts
Shirts are the ultimate in elegance. They're perfect for women wondering how to dress at 60. Choose a fitted version to highlight your waist, or go for a looser style for a more relaxed vibe.
The must-have base color is white, which stands the test of every fashion trend. You can then branch out into other shades 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 with zero effort.
When it comes to skirts, you can't go wrong with a pencil skirt!
- Jackets
No stylish woman's wardrobe at 60 would be complete without a beautiful collection of jackets. These fashion pieces help structure and finish an outfit, but above all, they highlight your chic side.
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 common for the appearance of the neck to change. If you'd like to conceal it because it makes you feel self-conscious, don't hesitate to embrace scarves. Not only do they add a refined touch, but they're also the perfect accessories to energize an outfit. A brightly colored or patterned scarf, for example, can elevate a simple 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 tend to suit younger profiles better.
Ankle boots are also your friends, just like espadrilles for summer.
And if you happen to love heels, don't hold back. They'll always add a chic touch to an elegant outfit.
Which colors should you choose for your clothes at 60?
Colors are also an essential element when it comes to dressing well at 60. Among the shades to avoid for your outfits, as they won't flatter you, are all neon colors and overly flashy tones.
Among the timeless favorites, you'll find:
- navy blue
- plum
- coral
- black
- beige
- brown white
- pink.
Feel free to take a color analysis test to get the full list of shades that suit you best.
> Also read: Colorimetry: what is it?
With all these tips, you'll know exactly how to dress elegantly at 60.
PS: Every stage of life brings changes to your wardrobe. It's common to choose less revealing outfits as we get older, but that's not always the case for every woman. If you love necklines, short dresses, or simply pieces that highlight your feminine features, go for it! Fashion is all about having fun and playing with styles and trends!
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