are you dressing too young?

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Aug 04 3:56 PM posted by author Guest Contributor

Are you a fashion rule follower or are you more of a 'white after Labor Day' kind of girl? This is one of those topics that get women talking, no matter what side of the fashion fence they may land on. Let us know your thoughts about Guest Blogger, Tracy Mausser's dressy dilemma. - Team Ricki Jackie

Tracy Mausser was on her way out to meet friends for her monthly Bunco night when she was stopped by her husband, “Are you going to an ‘80s party?”

“I was flabbergasted,” Tracy admits. “I had on a sweater dress – over leggings – tucked into slouchy flat-soled suede boots. Before I could even get a word out, he said I reminded him of a character from The Breakfast Club movie (circa 1985).”

While her husband was likely being playful, the comment left Tracy wondering if she really was dressing appropriately for her age.

“The fashion industry definitely caters to the young and, without meaning to, women in their 30s, 40s and 50s – such as myself – often fall victim to youthful trends,” Tracy says. But she’s created her own rules for dressing age-appropriately while still rocking the style.

Tracy's Fashion Tips for the Ages

30s

A common mistake of a woman in her thirties is trying to wear outfits that aren’t meant for anyone post-puberty. Take the “teen jean” for example (aka trying to squeeze thighs and butt into pants that are too form-fitting for anyone with the slightest curves). Instead of having a battle every morning with the wrong pair of pants, a good closet staple is trouser style jeans.  These age-appropriate pants, paired with ballet flats, an eye-catching cardigan, and a colorful handbag can make mom’s comfy clothes look chic while picking up the kids from school. 

For the office, choose something that shows you are still youthful and bringing in fresh concepts, like an A-line skirt, tailored jacket with a simple tank underneath, and tasteful wedge shoes to complete the look.

For a night out on the town, a cowl neck top worn with relaxed-fit ankle pants and booties are dressy enough for any occasion.  Add bold jewelry and an embellished clutch to pull the entire look together.

40s

A woman in her forties is often trying to adapt to an ever-changing body. We know who we are and what we like, but we have a hard time accepting that we are aging. 

Warning:  Forty-somethings should not be sharing their jeggings and Ugg boots with their teen-age daughters. It’sgreat youcanboth fit into the same size, but that doesn’t necessarily mean youshould. 

Also, knowing your body shape and showing skin appropriately is crucial to dressing suitably. If you arelucky enough to have amazing cleavage --  yay for you -- but there is a fine line between being sassy and looking like you just landed a job entertaining the secret service.

Clothing that is tailored – but not too tight – shows off the best aspects of a woman’s figure while leaving enough to the imagination. 

For work, simple lines on skirts, shirts and trousers keep you polished. A classic white shirt speaks volumes and creates a sophisticated look.  The outfit paired with an on-trend shoe and some hip accessories shows that you are still fashion-forward.

Dresses can be very flattering and perfect for wearing day or night.  A dress in a bold, but solid color, with a V-neck collar and dazzling necklace can emphasize the woman and not just the ensemble.

Over 50

The biggest pitfall for women over 50 is getting trapped in one time period. Although fashions repeat, if you were old enough to wear a style the first time around, you’re most likely too old to wear it the second time.

Then there’s the issue of cougar chic: Unless you’re on anepisode of  “Mob Wives,” skipthe tight pants and tops. The key to dressing successfully at this age and in today’s fashions is to modify – less is more. 

Love the bold print dresses all the rage right now? Tone it down with a monochromatic jacket and wide belt. Create a sophisticated look by adding a pair of conservative ankle-strap platforms and a day clutch.

The skinny on pants: Stay away from stove pipe jeans and go for ones that taper (think cropped straight legs).  Also, darker shades of denim are slimming and look good on everyone.  

Practical pieces in your wardrobe – with the addition of fashion-forward accents – creates a well-dressed silhouette.  It’s not how old you are that matters, but how confident you feel.Wearing well-made clothes that work with your body and age will have you stepping out in style.

Tracy Mausser, a "Jersey girl turned Angeleno," is the creator of All Things Fashionating, a personal and lifestyle blog where she shares personal stories, as well as her views and tips on fashion, family, health and exercise -- all of which she considers "fashionating." ourney into spirituality, among other topics she finds "fashionating."