If I know one thing to be true, it’s that fashion is ageless and great style is forever, but as a fashion editor I’m still often asked if certain trends are “age appropriate”. While I understand the intention behind the question, I still can’t help but feel disappointed. After all, the power of a great outfit is universal, and we’re at our most confident when we look and feel our best (and believe me, that has no age limit). So when it comes to discussing the relevance of current trends for an over-fifties reader, my advice is exactly the same as it would be for anyone else—start with wardrobe staples and investment pieces that will work with what you already own, and inject some fun and vibrancy by introducing micro-trends like colours and accessories that speak to your own unique style. And, no one knows this better than influencer and communications director Marie-Louise Maxwell.
While scrolling through Instagram I noticed just how many current runway trends Marie-Louise manages to incorporate in her wardrobe, but all her with own interpretation on the style. Burgundy? You’ll find in the form of cosy knits and glossy leather. Statement handbags? She has sparkles, clutches and crossbodies in spades, and denim? No problem, she’s got a comprehensive jean collection, and tall girls take note: she has the insider scoop on the best brands for those over 5″8′. So, who better to turn to for tips on how to build a fashionable wardrobe for the over fifties than Marie-Louise?
Style Notes: Sorry minis, but the runway has spoken—pencil skirts and midis are officially back (that is, if they ever left) and Marie-Louise agrees. “This denim midi skirt is one of the most hard-working pieces in my wardrobe and is an all-season winner. I’ve elevated the look with knee-high heeled boots for winter, while in the summer I’d pair it with sliders. Look for ones with stretch for extra comfort, it’s such an easy length for all ages. The only challenge is keeping my 24 year old daughter from borrowing it!”
Agolde are specialists in premium quality denim.
So chic, especially as a full co-ord.
It always pays to have a good leather skirt in your arsenal.
The perfect style for dressing up for dinner.
Don’t underestimate the comfort of corduroy.
Style Notes: Looking for a low-maintenance top that always looks expensive? The answer is an easy waistcoat. “A simple waist-coat is the easiest way to freshen up your style,” notes Maxwell. “I was so excited when they came back a couple of seasons ago as I had a stack in my wardrobe archives. It’s another winner for every age, and my favourite look is to wear one buttoned-up with these straight Victoria Beckham jeans, but they look equally great open, and worn over a blouse or knit too.”
Cream always looks premium with gold jewellery.
The Frankie Shop singlehandedly made tailoring feel cool rather than stuffy.
You just can’t argue with that price.
A cosy wool for the cooler winter months.
A great shade of brown to pair with indigo wash jeans.
Style Notes: Let it be known that joggers are no longer the reserve of athleisure—they can be just as easily dressed up as jeans. So, should you be looking for a comfy trouser trend that works for weekends and days in the office, Maxwell relies on chic sportswear. “I’ve have lived in these adidas joggers for years and your wardrobe is missing a trick if you don’t own a pair. Not only are they are affordable and comfortable, but they’re forever cool. Simply style them up with a white t.shirt or slouchy knit.”
Style Notes: If there was one viral trend to come out of winter 2023, it would undoubtedly be the return of grey. Charcoal, slate, pebble, mist, it doesn’t actually matter the shade, but the most effective nod to the trend came from wearing it in head-to-toe colour-blocked layers. “If you are stuck for a statement outfit, go tonal with one colour,” suggests Maxwell. “Grey is the colour of the season, and if like me you’ve got a few grey jumpers in your closet, this is the easiest of looks to re-create. I bought this flippy knitted skirt and matching jacket from Zara to create this bold, tonal look.”
As Marie-Louise proves, this looks even better with opaque tights.
Last year’s bestselling coat is back in a new colourway.
I love this layered over the buttoned up tank.
Such a cool alternative to black leather.
This is the outfit.
Style Notes: Skinnies, straight, mom jeans, boyfriend jeans, we experiment with denim trends a lot, but one style with real longevity is the wide-leg, and thanks to a runway renaissance, they’re back in stock and more stylish than ever. “I love the androgynous style of the pleated, wide-leg trouser trend, and I always cinch in the waist with a statement belt to create a strong silhouette. Not only are they supremely comfortable, they look just as chic with high-top trainers as they do with heels. (Denim and burgundy happen to be my favourite colour combination at the moment too).”
I love the shade of dark, inky blue.
Currently an ARKET bestseller.
These could easily pass for designer.
The perfect fit.
A subtle kick flare.
Style Notes: Who says that your favourite off-duty uniform can’t be elevated to the ranks of everyday wear too? For Maxwell, even the humble hoodie should be considered a wardrobe staple. “A chic hoodie is my all-time wardrobe essential. It’s a core piece in my work-from-home wardrobe which I’ll dress up under a blazer for meetings too. My advice? Go oversized. It looks great with leggings and can be elevated with a simple tuck into the waist of your favourite jeans.”
You won’t believe just how soft Rise & Fall cashmere is until you actually touch it.
Keep it casual with jeans or dress it up with a midi skirt.
If you need me, I’ll be wearing this for the foreseeable.
These would look so good with a crisp, oversized shirt.
Pure comfort.
Up Next, I Moved to Paris and Learned 5 Very Valuable Fashion Lessons