STYLE STOP
Tech-Savvy and Timeless
Fashion Tips for Women 55+
By Linda Peavy
Style evolves as we age, often reflecting our confidence, elegance and comfort. For women in their 50s and older, staying fashionable is about using trends sparingly, expressing individuality fully, and feeling fabulous forever. Technology offers an array of tools that make it easier than ever to discover and refine our style.
Virtual Styling Services
One of the most significant technological advancements in fashion is virtual styling services. Platforms like Stitch Fix and Short Story Box (for petites) offer personalized styling without leaving your home. After completing a detailed style quiz, professional stylists curate outfits tailored to your preferences, body shape and lifestyle. These services provide the convenience of trying on clothes in the comfort of your home. You keep what you love and return what you don’t.
Online Shopping with AI Recommendations
Online shopping has revolutionized the way we buy clothes. Websites like Amazon, Nordstrom and Zappos use artificial intelligence to recommend products based on your previous purchases and browsing history.
Virtual Fitting Rooms
Many online retailers offer virtual fitting rooms that use augmented reality (AR) that lets you see how an outfit looks on your body type. True Fit is a notable example, providing personalized size and style recommendations across various brands. Look for shops that offer True Fit for a better fit and fewer returns.
Fashion Apps
Fashion apps like Stylebook allow you to create a digital wardrobe by photographing and organizing your clothes into categories. Similarly, apps like Cladwell provide daily outfit suggestions based on the weather and your personal style preferences. Pureple is another app that offers virtual closet management and outfit planning features.
Virtual Reality Fashion Shows
Keeping up with trends is made easier with virtual reality (VR) fashion shows that you can attend from the comfort of your home. Websites like YouTube and brand-specific platforms like Tommy Hilfiger’s VR Fashion Show often host VR fashion shows, making them easily accessible.
Social Media and Fashion Influencers
Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are treasure troves of style inspiration. Following fashion influencers who cater to women over 50 can provide daily outfit ideas and styling tips. Influencers share where they purchased their clothing, how to style pieces, and offer discount codes for favorite brands. Notable influencers include 50 is not Old (Tania Stephens) and this column writer, Cultured Curves (Linda Peavy).
Online Fashion Communities
Websites like Reddit and Facebook have groups dedicated to fashion for mature women, where members share tips, outfit ideas and support. These communities provide a space to ask for advice, share your style journey, and connect with like-minded individuals who appreciate fashion at any age. Groups like The Mature Fashionista and Cultured Curves Guide to Stylish Living on Facebook or the Over 50 Style, found within the Reddit website, are great places to start.
Digital Wardrobe Consultants
For those who prefer a more personalized touch, digital wardrobe consultants offer virtual consultations via video calls. Services like The Wardrobe Consultant (Cleveland local Hallie Abrams) provide one-on-one sessions to help you identify your style, declutter your wardrobe, and shop for new pieces. A Personal Stylist (such as Kristen Blake, who serves Cleveland) offers personalized fashion advice and wardrobe planning. Another local consultant is Tee McBee of Tee McBee Image Consulting.
By incorporating technology, you can discover new styles, refine your look and continue to express your unique fashion sense with grace and confidence.
