If I know two things to be true, fashion is ageless and great style is forever. But as a fashion editor, I'm still often asked if certain trends are "age-appropriate". Whilst I understand the intention behind the question, I can't help but feel disappointed. After all, the power of a great outfit is universal, and we're at our most confident when we look and feel our best (and believe me, that has no age limit). So when it comes to discussing the relevance of current trends for a reader over 50, my advice is exactly the same as it would be for anyone else: start with wardrobe staples and investment pieces that will work with what you already own, and inject some fun and vibrancy by introducing microtrends like colours and accessories that speak to your unique style.
No one knows this better than influencer and communications director Marie-Louise Maxwell. Scrolling through Instagram, I noticed just how many current runway trends she manages to incorporate into her wardrobe, but all her with own interpretation. Red? You'll find it in the form of cosy knits.
Statement handbags? She has sparkles, clutches and crossbodies in spades. Denim? No problem; Maxwell has a comprehensive jeans collection. And— tall girls, take note—she has the insider scoop on the best brands for those over 5"8'. So, who better to turn to for tips on how to build a fashionable wardrobe over 50 than Marie-Louise?
Whether you're looking for trending buys, investment pieces, or the pillars to looking polished, keep scrolling to uncover styling tips from one of the best on Instagram, and to shop the key pieces that will bring new life to your usual rotation.
1. MIDI SKIRTS
Style Notes: Sorry, minis, but the runways have spoken and pencil skirts and midis are officially back (that is if they ever left), and Marie-Louise agrees.
"This denim midi skirt is one of the most hard-working pieces in my wardrobe and is an all-season winner. In the winter I style it with knee-high heeled boots for winter, whilst in the summer I'll pair it with sliders. It's such an easy length for all ages—just look for those with stretch for extra comfort. The only challenge is keeping my 24-year-old daughter from borrowing it!"
SHOP MIDI SKIRTS:
Agolde is a specialist in premium-quality denim.
So chic, especially as a full co-ord. Shop the matching cardigan
It always pays to have a good leather skirt in your arsenal.
The perfect style for dressing up for dinner.
Don't underestimate the chicness of a cargo skirt.
2. WAISTCOATS
Style Notes: Looking for a low-maintenance top that always looks expensive? The answer is an easy waistcoat.
"A simple waistcoat is the easiest way to freshen up your style," notes Maxwell. "I was so excited when they came back a couple of seasons ago as I had a stack in my wardrobe archives. It’s another winner for every age, and my favourite look is to wear one buttoned-up with my Victoria Beckham jeans, but they look equally great open and worn over a blouse or knit too."
SHOP WAISTCOATS:
Black always looks premium with gold jewellery.
A great shade to pair with indigo-wash jeans.
The Frankie Shop singlehandedly made tailoring feel cool rather than stuffy.
You just can't argue with that price or unique design.
A cosy wool version for the cooler winter months.
3. TRACK PANTS
Style Notes: Let it be known that joggers are no longer the reserve of athleisure—they can be just as easily dressed up as jeans. So, should you be looking for a comfy trouser trend that works for weekends and days in the office, Maxwell relies on chic sportswear.
"I have lived in these Adidas joggers for years, and your wardrobe is missing a trick if you don’t own a pair. Not only are they affordable and comfortable, but they're forever cool. Simply style them up with a white T-shirt or slouchy knit."
SHOP TRACK PANTS:
Maxwell's favourite pair.
This camel shade is so easy to style.
If you really value your comfort, wide-leg jogging bottoms are the way to go.
This draped cut is both chic and comfy.
You can't beat Uniqlo's prices and quality for the high street, and its HeatTech range is a must if you run cold.
4. TONAL DRESSING
Style Notes: If there was one viral trend to come out of winter 2023, it would undoubtedly be the return of grey. Charcoal, slate, pebble, mist—it doesn't actually matter the shade, but the most effective nod to the trend came from wearing it head-to-toe in colour-blocked layers.
"If you're stuck for a statement outfit, go tonal with one colour," suggests Maxwell. "Grey is the colour of the season, and if like me you’ve got a few grey jumpers in your closet, this is the easiest of looks to re-create. I bought this flippy knitted skirt and matching jacket from Zara to create this bold, tonal look."
SHOP GREY CLOTHING:
As Maxwell proves, this looks even better with opaque tights.
I love this cropped style.
Such a cool alternative to black.
This is the outfit.
Last year's best-selling coat is back in a new colourway just in time for autumn.
5. WIDE-LEG JEANS
Style Notes: Skinny, straight, mom, boyfriend—we experiment with denim trends a lot, but one style with real longevity is the wide-leg, and thanks to a runway renaissance, they're back in stock and more stylish than ever.
"I love the androgynous style of the pleated, wide-leg trouser trend, and I always cinch in the waist with a statement belt to create a strong silhouette. Not only are they supremely comfortable, they look just as chic with high-top trainers as they do with heels. Denim with burgundy happens to be my favourite colour combination at the moment."
SHOP WIDE-LEG JEANS:
I love this shade of ecru.
Currently an Arket best seller.
These could easily pass for designer.
The perfect fit.
A subtle kick-flare.
6. LUXE LOUNGEWEAR
Style Notes: Who says that your favourite off-duty uniform can't be elevated to the ranks of everyday wear too? For Maxwell, even the humble hoodie should be considered a wardrobe staple.
"A chic hoodie is my all-time wardrobe essential. It’s a core piece in my work-from-home wardrobe which I’ll dress up under a blazer for meetings too. My advice? Go oversized. It looks great with leggings and can be elevated with a simple tuck into the waist of your favourite jeans."
SHOP LUXE LOUNGEWEAR:
You won't believe just how soft Rise & Fall cashmere is until you actually touch it.
If you need me, I'll be wearing this for the foreseeable.
Keep it casual with jeans or dress it up with a midi skirt.
These would look so good with a crisp, oversized button-down.
Pure comfort.