You’re never too old to dress fashion-forward. Choosing the right shapes and accents will keep your look current
By Susan Huston
Special to the Star-Telegram
You spot the latest spring trend in a magazine. You love it. You can’t wait to wear it. Yet you are not sure how to now that you are over 50. Is spring 2012 fashion better suited to the 20-some-things? What is a woman of a certain age suppose to do?
On model: Rolled-cuff peasant blouse, $44.50, Loft; Long crochet vest, $109, Chico’s; Khaki ankle pant, $98, Cache; leather woven belt with gold buckle, $79, Chico’s; Farmer’s Market Tote, $49, J.Crew; gold and tortoise necklace by John Wind, $110, Lawrence’s; gold and stone double-drop earrings, $18, Francesca’s Collections; stretch cuff bracelet, $59, WhatchamaCallit Fashions; wedge leather sandals by Vince Camuto, $110, Dillard’s.
I can relate. I am over 60 years old and in the fashion business, and when shopping amid those hot spring fashions, I have the same questions as you: Is that great-looking new garment age-appropriate?
The answer is, yes, we can be fashionably dressed in clothes that are age-appropriate. Just remember, it is all about modifying today’s trends for our age.
Let’s take a look at some current spring looks and how we can make them work for us.
The spring trend: Color blocking
Color blocking is everywhere this spring. Have some fun with pops of color to liven up your wardrobe. Remember, color and pattern add interest and warmth to your outfit. As we age, the colors we wear seem to fade, but that’s when we need color more than ever. Be sure to wear color near your face to brighten your look.
Hint: Make your tummy virtually disappear with a little ruching in that area. If you opt for accessories in bright colors, such as this season’s hot “Tangerine Tango”, consider proportion and shapes. For an accent piece, look for larger shapes like a cuff bracelet, pendant or a statement necklace, along with ear-rings with some panache.
The spring trend: Safari chic
Today’s neutral-minded “safari” look is much more polished than the head-to-toe khaki that comes to mind. But don’t sacrifice fashion just to be comfy.
If you’re confident enough to try skinny-legged pants, invest in alterations. Make sure the pant does not end at the widest part of your leg-it will emphasize your leg, not minimize it.
Complement a narrow pant with a flowing or loose top. You don’t want to hide under a tent, but think about proportion. Do not pair a-slim fitting top with a slim-fitting pant. That generally will not give you the best proportions.
The spring trend:
Floral patterns are on trend and an be figure-flattering, too. but don’t hunt in the back of the closet for your old ’80s floral dresses (why do you still have them anyway?)
Susan Huston is a freelance writer, stylist and the owner of Susan Huston Fashion Concepts (www.susanhuston.com)
Model: Irene Gavenas
Styling: Susan Huston
Makeup/hair: Sandy Chan of Salon Artistique, 665 W. LBJ Freeway, No. 202, Irving 972 839-3689; www.salonartistique.com