Style Stop
By Linda Peavy
Reaching midlife is a milestone worth celebrating — not just in life, but in fashion. By this stage, you know yourself better than ever. You’ve collected experiences, wisdom, and perhaps a few fashion missteps along the way. But here’s the beauty of life after 50: You have the freedom to define what style means to you, on your own terms. Finding your signature style isn’t about following every trend, but about curating a look that feels authentic, flattering and uniquely yours.
Here’s how to create a wardrobe that speaks for you without ever saying a word:
Step 1: Understand What Signature Style Means
Signature style is the consistent, recognizable way you present yourself through clothing, accessories, hair, and even makeup. It’s not about looking like someone else; it’s about amplifying what already makes you shine. Think of Diane von Furstenberg with her wrap dresses or Iris Apfel with her oversized glasses. Their clothes don’t overshadow them; they reflect who they are.
Your signature style should do the same. It should be flattering to your body, functional for your lifestyle, and expressive of your personality. When you find it, getting dressed becomes less stressful and far more joyful.
Step 2: Reflect on Your Preferences
Diane Linston-NGU Collection
Ask yourself some questions to uncover the style you naturally gravitate toward:
- Do you prefer jeans, pants, or dresses?
- Do you feel more confident in neutrals or in color?
- Are you drawn to structured tailoring or flowing silhouettes?
- When you dress up, do you lean toward classic elegance, boho chic, or bold glamour?
Looking back at the outfits that made you feel your best is a helpful clue. If you receive compliments whenever you wear a sheath dress, that’s a sign. If wide-leg trousers make you feel powerful, keep them in your rotation.
Step 3: Build a Capsule Wardrobe
One of the easiest ways to uncover your style is to curate a capsule wardrobe; a small collection of versatile, flattering pieces that mix and match easily.
Start with foundational items in your best colors and silhouettes:
- A blazer or collarless coat
- Well-fitting trousers and jeans
- A wrap dress or sheath dress
- Classic blouses in neutral tones
- A flattering skirt (midi is ideal for many mature women)
Then, layer in personality pieces, perhaps an animal print blouse, a bold statement necklace, or a favorite handbag. When you repeatedly wear the items you love most, your signature style begins to reveal itself.
Step 4: Embrace Color and Prints
Donna Vinci
If your closet is 90% black, it may be time to branch out. Mature women often look radiant in jewel tones like emerald, ruby and sapphire. Leopard print, in particular, is a fabulous neutral that adds instant sophistication and a little sass.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints. Start small with a leopard belt or scarf, then graduate with a printed blouse or dress. Prints are an easy way to express your personality while elevating simple outfits.
Step 5: Dress for Your Shape, Not the Hanger
A garment that looks stunning on a mannequin may not flatter your body shape, and that’s okay. Learning your body type (pear, apple, hourglass or banana) helps you choose styles that accentuate your best features.
- Pear shapes: Highlight your smaller waist with fit-and-flare dresses or peplum tops.
- Apple shapes: Create waist definition with wrap dresses and ruched tops.
- Hourglass shapes: Show off balanced curves with sheath dresses and belted looks.
- Banana shapes: Add dimension with A-line skirts or wide belts.
When your clothes fit well, you’ll feel comfortable and confident — two hallmarks of great style.
Step 6: Edit Ruthlessly
Signature style is about clarity, not clutter. Do a closet purge: Pull out every item and ask, “Do I feel amazing in this?” If the answer is no, donate or discard it.
Holding onto clothes that no longer fit or flatter keeps you stuck in the past.
Make space for pieces that align with who you are now. It’s liberating, and it allows your style to evolve with you.
Step 7: Accessorize with Intention
Harlem’s Heaven’s Hats
Accessories are powerful in defining signature style. A woman who always wears bold earrings or carries structured handbags develops a recognizable look. Consider adopting one or two accessory signatures:
- Statement necklaces or chunky cuffs
- Wide-brimmed hats or fascinators
- Colorful scarves
- Distinctive eyewear
These small details can elevate even the simplest outfit into something uniquely yours.
Step 8: Balance Trends with Timelessness
Donna Karan Buckle Detail Coat
Trends can be fun, but they should complement your style, not dictate it. Choose trends that work with your wardrobe capsule. For Fall 2025, that might mean a suede midi skirt, chocolate brown outerwear, or a Gucci-inspired slouchy bag. Worn with your core wardrobe, these updates keep you current without sacrificing authenticity.
Step 9: Own It with Confidence
The most essential ingredient in signature style? Confidence. You radiate self-assurance when you wear clothes that flatter your figure, highlight your personality, and fit your lifestyle. At 50 and beyond, you no longer need to impress anyone but yourself.
Your clothes should look good on you and make you feel good about yourself… whether you’re wearing casual pajamas or a chic evening gown.
That’s the essence of signature style… looking and feeling spectacular at every stage of life.
Final Thoughts
Finding your signature style after 50 is not about reinvention but refinement. By reflecting on your preferences, dressing for your shape, curating a capsule, and accessorizing with intention, you’ll create a wardrobe that feels cohesive, confident and undeniably you.
Remember, your style tells the world who you are. Let it say: vibrant, elegant and unapologetically fabulous.
Additional signature style help can be found in my book, The Cultured Curves Guide to Style for Mature Curvy Women.
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