5 easy wardrobe updates
If the last time you did a wardrobe overhaul was sometime in the ’90s, the chances are good that you may be in need of an update! Often, when we find a look or fashion era that we feel comfortable with or in, we stick to it, even as the wheels keep turning and updating around us. While certain looks and items of clothing are timeless and classic, others can be very ageing and, dare we say it, unflattering. Jumping on board every trend isn’t the answer but a few small tweaks can mean the difference between a wardrobe that’s out-dated and ageing and chic and age appropriate.
Switch from pleated pants to flat front jeans and trousers
Trousers with a pleated front are not only ageing, they can also be rather unflattering, drawing attention to your mid-section and cutting off your legs at the longest point. Switching to flat fronted jeans and pants helps lengthen your legs and slim your tummy. Look for a medium rise (which will usually come up over the bottom of your belly and skim your hips) and either a straight or slight bootcut for the most flattering, comfortable style.
Avoid high, skivvy type necklines
While reaching for a shirt with a neckline that covers your décolletage and neck may seem age appropriate, it can actually add years onto your outfit. While our décolletage, if not looked after properly can be an indicator of age, our shoulders and clavicles are actually one of the areas that ages the least. A gentle V-neck or boat neck t-shirt or shirt helps highlight this area comfortably and can be worn with pretty much any type of bottom in your existing wardrobe.
Update your accessories
Simple may be better when it comes to key wardrobe purchases but when it comes to accessories, taking a walk on the wild side and indulging in favourite patterns and colours can give a great boost to your outfits. Colourful scarves, beautiful bracelets and intricate necklaces can all help draw attention towards the areas you feel most comfortable with while also updating your overall look. Try a long, patterned silk or cotton scarf with a boat neck t-shirt in a neutral shade and a pair of slim fit, dark denim jeans for a timeless, elegant and easy weekday look.
Jean genius
The majority of women own at least one pair of jeans, most own a couple at least. While this popular wardrobe staple is one of the best building blocks for an outfit, the incorrect cut, colour and fit can be disastrous, adding years AND kilograms to your frame. Women often choose a loose-ish bootcut design, mistakenly thinking that it’s the most age appropriate and flattering when in actual fact, a slimmer more fitted cut will not only elongate legs and slim your midsection but appear both fresh and modern. Whatever your age, a pair of jeans that fits well, in a dark indigo wash with a midrise wait and a slim, tapered leg should live in your wardrobe. If you’re confused about the best option, try visiting a jean specific shop like Just Jeans or a large retailer who carries a variety of styles, like Susan, Trenery or Witchery, and ask the sales assistant for help!
Rethink your middle section
While tucking your shirt in, opting for shorter, waistband skimming styles or boxy, loose blouses may seem age appropriate, all these things either direct attention towards your middle or add weight (and years) to your frame. If your conscious about your middle section, and don’t want to wear shapewear all the time, choose slim cut, fitted tops that skim just below the waistband of your jeans, around where the fly sits. These comfortably gloss over your tummy without overwhelming your frame. A V-neck or round neckline or also helps balance out a slightly rounded midsection.
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