I'm 57, and These Are the 3 Trends I Will and Won't Wear

Janet Gunn is the inspiring influencer behind The Grateful Gardenia. Originally from Texas, the 57-year-old style guru is now settled in Los Angeles with her husband, son, and dog named Buster. She's worked as a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, flight attendant, actor, jewelry designer, and beyond—in other words, she has a ton of experience and an equally cool personal style to match. Below, Gunn shares the trends she's embracing (and letting go) this year. Read on for her insights and shop the looks you love best, whether you're 57, 27, or somewhere in between. For more of her looks, don't miss her Instagram account, @janetgunngratefulgardenia.

After turning 50, as always, I wanted to dress stylishly, with a little bit of edge, but chic. Now that I'm 57, comfort is at the top of my list. I don’t like to think too much about what to put on. I look for timeless pieces that work for my on-the-go lifestyle and love mixing them with a few trendy pieces, that reflect my own personal style. If it makes you feel fabulous, wear it!

So Long: Skinny Jeans

I need to have the freedom to move about, and I want to be able to breathe! When I need perfect black pants, I go to my uniform—Franne Golde classic pants. Being petite and wanting a perfectly proportioned pants, I approached Franne in 2018, and together we came up with a Petite Capsule Collection. Wearing these structured but stretchy pants make me feel and look great, and yes, there’s a pair for almost every size and shape, not just petite!

To Stay: Pajama Dressing

Oh, how I love this trend. This look is ageless to me. Great silks are usually pretty timeless, and you're mixing comfort with style. It's chic with a dash of confidence mixed in. I like to wear my pajama top and pair it with cropped jeans and a blazer, or pajama bottoms paired with a simple white top, T-shirt, and mules.

So Long: Statement Sneakers

I often wear sneakers, and I do prefer Golden Goose, but I'll pass on the large clunky soles. It's just too heavy for my body type. Trends aren't for everyone. Be the trend!

To Stay: Long Lightweight Coats

This is an essential piece for my wardrobe and a quick fix to update your simple jeans and T-shirt favorites. I love the modern, edgy look these long coats give. My favorites right now are from RtA and Alice & Olivia, and I'll wear them with almost any shoe style.

So Long: Bamboo Bags

They are seasonal and fun for a vacay, but not worth the splurging! I tend to go for a functional yet elegant style when it comes to purses. Investing in a quality purse means great materials, beautiful details, and excellent craftsmanship you won't find in mass-produced bags. And there's nothing like a great accessory. It can make even the simplest outfit pop!

To Stay: More Leopard

To me, this is a forever trend! So I'll have more of that, please. I don't think leopard print has ever not hung in my closet or rested on my shelves, which is exactly why I made sure to add a leopard top to my petite capsule collection. I always picture Diane von Furstenberg when I think of leopard, and she's truly a fearless fashion female in my eyes.