Style at sixty and beyond isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out with grace, confidence, and intention. After years of experimenting, learning, and living, women over 60 often develop a keener sense of personal taste. And yet, so many outdated fashion rules still linger—telling mature women what not to wear instead of celebrating all the things they can. The truth is, style in your sixties can be more exciting, expressive, and rewarding than ever before. It’s a time to dress for you—to honor your journey, personality, and flair without apology. These seven surprising style tips go beyond the basics. They’ll help you rethink what it means to dress well at this vibrant stage of life, adding both polish and personality to your wardrobe.
1. Embrace Color Like a Signature Accessory
Color is one of the most transformative tools in your wardrobe—and as you move into your 60s and beyond, it becomes even more essential. Skin tone often changes with age, becoming softer or lighter, and the right colors can bring incredible brightness, dimension, and vibrancy to your entire face. Many women shy away from bold hues, believing neutrals are the only “safe” bet—but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
A pop of color near your face can immediately lift your features, illuminate your eyes, and take years off your appearance—not by hiding your age, but by celebrating your vitality. Think about shades that work with your natural coloring: turquoise or coral for warmth, jewel tones like emerald, plum, or sapphire for drama, or blush pinks and lavender for softness. Even a single colorful piece—like a scarf, a bold necklace, a cardigan, or a pair of vibrant shoes—can make an outfit feel alive and fresh. These pops of color become a signature, a visual “wink” that adds personality and confidence to every look. Experiment. Play. Discover which hues make you feel radiant and wear them with pride, because color isn’t just flattering—it’s empowering.
2. Stop Hiding Your Shape—Start Skimming It
Many women over 60 have been conditioned to believe that as their bodies change, they should conceal them under layers of oversized clothing or boxy, shapeless garments. But the truth is, the most elegant and flattering style comes from embracing your natural silhouette—whatever that looks like—and dressing in pieces that follow your form, not swallow it. Your body is not something to hide; it’s something to honor. After all, it has carried you through decades of life, and that in itself deserves celebration.
The idea is not to wear tight or revealing clothing, but to choose garments that gently skim the body, offering shape and softness without clinging or stiff structure. Think of wrap dresses that define the waist and create movement through the skirt, or tailored blazers that add subtle shape through the shoulders and nip in slightly at the waist, creating a balanced hourglass effect. Soft knits with some stretch, high-waisted pants that elongate the legs, and slightly A-line skirts can all create flattering, feminine lines that feel effortless rather than forced.
One of the most transformative approaches is layering with intention. Lightweight cardigans, kimonos, or flowy vests can add length and shape, while also providing comfort and coverage. Structured elements, like seaming and darts, can visually sculpt the body in ways that are incredibly flattering without being restrictive. Rather than reaching for the same loose tunics or oversized blouses, try opting for pieces with soft tailoring and a hint of drape—they allow the fabric to move with your body instead of hanging away from it. When you begin to dress in a way that acknowledges your body instead of ignoring it, you don’t just look more put together—you feel more grounded and alive. Because dressing with shape isn’t about trying to look younger—it’s about honoring the body you’ve earned with style and grace.
3. Mix High and Low Fashion for a Modern Twist
One of the smartest and most unexpected style moves for women over 60 is learning how to mix high-end pieces with affordable fashion. You don’t have to wear designer from head to toe to look polished—you just need to know how to balance investment items with trendy, budget-friendly accents. This approach creates an elevated, modern look that feels current without trying too hard. Start with a foundation of timeless, well-constructed basics: a beautifully tailored blazer, a pair of structured trousers, a high-quality cashmere sweater. These items anchor your outfit with elegance and give you versatility across seasons.
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From there, bring in playful, affordable elements like a vibrant printed scarf from a fast fashion brand, a bold pair of statement earrings, or a trendy handbag that adds a seasonal touch. It’s the contrast between luxe and everyday that gives your outfit personality. Think of wearing a crisp white shirt with designer shoes and a colorful beaded necklace picked up at a local market—or pairing high-rise, dark-wash jeans with a flowy embroidered blouse from a boutique. The effect is intentional, not accidental. And when you start to blend textures—like soft knits with metallics, or denim with silk—you’ll create layered looks that speak to your personal style and sophistication.
This tip also frees you from feeling like every piece you buy needs to be expensive or classic. Let yourself enjoy trends in small doses—whether it’s a chunky necklace, a graphic tee under a structured jacket, or a faux-leather crossbody bag in a vibrant color. These little touches bring playfulness and edge to your wardrobe without compromising on elegance. Fashion at 60 is about expression, and mixing high and low gives you the freedom to explore both refinement and fun in every outfit you wear.
4. Wear Accessories That Tell a Story
Accessories are often thought of as finishing touches, but for women over 60, they can become the highlight of your outfit—tools of self-expression that go far beyond the functional. Whether it’s a vintage brooch passed down through generations, a handwoven scarf from a trip abroad, or a bold cuff bracelet picked up at an artisan fair, your accessories can reflect your journey, your tastes, and your spirit. They become conversation starters and style signatures that turn even the simplest outfit into something deeply personal and chic.
Large, artful earrings can frame the face and draw attention to your eyes. Long necklaces elongate the neck and can add visual interest to high-neck tops or flowy dresses. Scarves in silk, cotton, or wool can be tied in countless ways to shift the tone of your outfit—looped around the neck for structure, draped over the shoulders for softness, or even tied to your handbag for an unexpected flourish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with color, size, or layering. Multiple bangles on one wrist, a statement ring paired with delicate bands, or a brightly patterned headband can all signal creativity and confidence.
Shoes and bags, too, are part of the accessory game. Instead of playing it safe with neutral flats or basic totes, consider pieces with texture, structure, or a pop of pattern. An animal print shoe, a metallic sandal, or a woven leather handbag can make your entire outfit look elevated, even when you’re just wearing a simple blouse and slacks. The beauty of accessories is that they allow you to be bold in small ways—and often, those small touches are what make your outfit uniquely yours.
5. Play With Proportions for a Fresh, Modern Look
Proportion is one of the most effective tools in fashion, and it’s especially powerful when applied with thoughtfulness in your 60s. The key to mastering proportions is finding balance—pairing larger or looser items with more structured or fitted pieces. This doesn’t mean you have to wear super tight clothing, but rather, playing with the relationships between volumes to create a look that feels both dynamic and balanced.
One easy way to start experimenting with proportions is through the use of oversized outerwear. A long, flowing trench coat or a roomy, stylish cardigan can add a sense of elegance and drama when paired with something more form-fitting underneath, like slim pants or a fitted top. Likewise, a wide-leg pant looks fresh and modern when worn with a tucked-in blouse or a simple, structured jacket that brings a sense of proportion to the overall silhouette. A loose, voluminous dress can be styled with a wide belt at the waist to create shape without compromising on comfort.
Tops with asymmetrical cuts or structured shoulders can also introduce intriguing visual interest while keeping the look sophisticated. You don’t need to overcomplicate things—simply learning to juxtapose different cuts and silhouettes can keep your outfits feeling fresh, modern, and in-line with the newest trends, all while remaining comfortable and stylish.
A great rule of thumb: if you wear something billowy or oversized on top, balance it with a more fitted piece on the bottom, and vice versa. A high-low hemline on a top paired with straight-leg trousers creates visual balance. A loose, flowing skirt can be paired with a sleek turtleneck or a fitted jacket. By playing with proportions, you can create outfits that feel both modern and timeless without relying on overly trendy looks. Proportion is about control, and once you find that balance, your outfits will exude a sense of effortless chic.
6. Choose Quality Fabrics That Feel Good to Wear
As you age, your sensitivity to fabrics may increase, and comfort becomes even more important in your wardrobe choices. But comfort doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. The fabrics you choose can elevate your look, and the right textiles can feel luxurious against your skin while providing all-day ease. Instead of settling for cheap materials that may itch, wrinkle, or lose shape after one wear, opt for natural, breathable fabrics that drape beautifully and feel soft to the touch.
Cotton, linen, silk, wool, and bamboo are just a few of the high-quality, breathable fabrics that can make a huge difference in how your clothes fit and feel. For summer, light cotton or linen dresses and blouses are breezy, chic, and comfortable, while also allowing your skin to breathe in warm weather. For colder months, consider investing in cashmere sweaters, which provide unparalleled softness, warmth, and luxury without feeling bulky. Wool trousers or blazers, when chosen in lighter weights, offer structure and warmth, while still feeling breathable enough to wear comfortably. You can also seek out eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and Tencel, which are gentle on both your skin and the planet, while providing a sophisticated aesthetic.
When it comes to everyday wear, think of fabrics that move with you—jersey-knit dresses, stretch denim, and silk blouses that don’t restrict or stiffen with wear. As you build your wardrobe, focus on pieces that are made from materials that will age well. High-quality textiles retain their shape, have a smooth drape, and stay comfortable throughout the day—ensuring that you look and feel fabulous no matter the occasion. Quality fabrics will not only give your clothing longevity, but they’ll also enhance your overall appearance, providing a smooth, effortless silhouette and a polished look.
7. Find Your Signature Style & Stick to It
As you enter your 60s, you likely have a clearer sense of who you are, and your style should reflect that newfound confidence. The most stunning women know exactly what they like and wear it unapologetically. This doesn’t mean you must conform to one specific look, but it does mean that you should create a wardrobe that is true to your identity. One of the best style tips for women over 60 is finding your signature look—whether that’s a bohemian vibe, a minimalist approach, or something that’s uniquely yours—and embracing it fully.
For some women, signature style could mean always having a clean, sophisticated look with tailored blazers, crisp button-downs, and simple, structured skirts. For others, it might be about channeling their creative side with bold, statement-making accessories, layered necklaces, and colorful patterns. Your signature style is what you wear when you want to feel confident and true to yourself. To discover your signature style, consider the pieces you feel most comfortable in and those that make you feel empowered. Do you gravitate toward classic silhouettes like pencil skirts and tailored pants? Or do you feel most like yourself in boho chic dresses, flowing cardigans, and ankle boots? Find what makes you feel authentic and build your wardrobe around those elements. Investing in a few high-quality, timeless pieces that make you feel amazing, alongside items that reflect your personality, will streamline your fashion choices and help you cultivate a look that feels truly yours. By defining your signature style, you not only simplify your wardrobe, but you also create a sense of consistency in your outfits.
It’s a powerful way to express who you are without having to try too hard. You’ll no longer have to second-guess your choices; your wardrobe will naturally evolve around the core aesthetic that makes you feel the most yourself. Style isn’t about trends or fitting in—it’s about finding what works for you and owning it completely. Let your wardrobe become a true reflection of your unique personality, and you’ll carry yourself with an inner confidence that radiates on the outside.
At 60 and beyond, fashion is not a reflection of age—it’s a reflection of your confidence, creativity, and zest for life. The most beautiful thing about style at this stage of life is the freedom to truly wear what you want. It’s about embracing the parts of yourself you love and dressing to express them. With these seven style tips, you can push past outdated fashion rules and embrace a wardrobe that feels exciting, empowering, and authentic. Remember, it’s not about following trends—it’s about celebrating your individuality and finding joy in how you dress. So go ahead, take these style tips, and make them your own. Let your fashion choices be a reflection of your inner strength, creativity, and timeless elegance. The world is ready to see you shine—boldly, confidently, and beautifully.
