15 Fashion Mistakes to Avoid If You Are Over 60

By Shelby Bonner Apr 01, 2024

As you get older, your wardrobe changes, including what styles you like and what looks best on you, including highlighting the best features of an ever-changing body. Certain clothes can age you and draw attention to areas you may not want to highlight.

As important as it is to choose clothes that work well for you, it is also important to avoid certain clothes that don’t work well. There are many styles and looks that complement your age while still being fun and showing off your personality.

However, there are common pieces and fashion mistakes that can take away from your style and beauty and are best to avoid. By avoiding these mistakes, you will look fresh, and modern, and feel ready to take on the world.

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Wrong Kind of Bra

A common mistake for women of all ages is wearing the wrong kind of bra. When choosing a bra, you don’t want it to stick out under your shirt, drawing attention to it. You also want it to fit correctly and provide enough support.

Choose bras in neutral shades and avoid texture to create a smooth silhouette. Consider getting resized more frequently with fluctuations in weight, need for support, and preferences.

Check out these bras and bralettes.

Underwear With a Seam

Like a bra, underwear that shows through your clothes is not good fashion for women of any age. To avoid this, consider choosing seamless underwear that is more comfortable and won’t show through your bottoms.

Also, make sure your underwear fits right - if it is too tight, it can separate and draw attention to any bumps or imperfections.

Save these underwear brands.

Liners and Pantyhose Showing

Like underwear, liners should not be seen. This includes shoe liners for flats and heels. Make sure your liners are concealed in your shoe and are the same color as your shoe.

This also includes pantyhose. They should act like a second skin on your legs, and not bunch up or distract from your outfit.

Try out these hosiery brands.

Belt to Hold Up Bottoms

Modern clothes should fit you without assistance. If you need a belt to hold up your bottoms, they are likely ill-fitting in other ways as well. A belt is a great accessory but is best worn around your waist to define it and create a smooth silhouette.

Discover these belts.

Massive Scarf

Scarves can be eloquent and a great way to incorporate color and patterns into your outfit. However, wearing oversized scarves can hide your shape and face. You want to draw attention to your face and features, not cover them up.

Try out a smaller scarf.

Wearing Leggings

There is nothing wrong with wearing leggings, they are comfortable and go with anything. However, be aware that tight-fitting pants can show off any small imperfections and take away from the beauty of your legs.

Consider wearing leggings under a skirt or dress to stay comfortable, while also still showing off your best features.

Layer these leggings under your next outfit.

Following Every Trend

Believe it or not, most trends have younger women in mind, and new looks in magazines can be more about selling products, and less about making you look good. Not all trends are made for your body shape, personal style, or comfort level.

Feel free to try new looks, but don’t feel pressured to try a trend that doesn’t make you look or feel your best.

Find more stylish outfit ideas for over 60 here.

Don’t Match Everything

Wear a monochromatic look, where your clothes, accessories, and even nails are all the same color can be an easy way to match. However, a one-color look can make you look older, and take away from showing off your features and figure.

Add more colors to create contrast and create a more dimensional look.

Find more ways to mix and match colors here.

Too Many Pastels

Pastels are a beautiful, timeless color palette to choose from. However, wearing too many or all pastels can wash out your natural skin color and make you look older. Still, wear your pastels, but pair them with richer tones to create balance.

Mix and match with these pastel looks.

Too Much Black

Black is chic, stylish, and always flattering. However, wearing only black can be harsh and make you look pale. Try incorporating other colors with your black outfit in your accessories, jewelry, and other layers.

Add color to your black outfit with these accessories.

Oversized Everything

You might be tempted to hide your body with baggy, oversized clothes as you age. Yet wearing only baggy clothes can make you look frumpy and bigger than you are. Pair an oversized piece with other pieces that show off your silhouette, such as a baggy sweater with a flattering pair of jeans.

Discover more ways to look attractive with oversized clothes here.

Outdated Eyeglasses

Wearing old or outdated eyeglasses can age you. Find glasses that work with your face shape and enhance your eyes. Have fun with large frames, bright colors, and fun patterns - glasses can be a great accessory!

Save these eyewear brands.

Don’t Dress Your Age

Society and others are all too happy to tell you what you can and can’t wear now that you are a certain age. That doesn’t mean you should always listen to them. Wear clothes that you like, are your style, and make you feel good about yourself, no matter if they are considered ‘age appropriate’ or not.

Find more fun styles here.

Long Unstructured A-line Skirts

Long, unstructured skirts are similar to oversized, baggy clothes, They hide your form, make you look frumpy, and widen your base. Try a fit and flare or midi skit for more shape. If you still want to wear a long skirt, pair it with a belt or shirt that shows off your waist.

Try a midi skirt instead.

Fleece

Fleece sweaters and clothes are comfortable and great for exercise. However, they do little for your form or style. Consider swapping your fleece for a long, chunky cardigan for a more stylish look.

Find more cold-weather alternatives here.

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.

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