Holiday Fashion Tips for Women Over 50
For many of us, the holiday season brings a mix of family gatherings, parties, and festive outings. My lifestyle is very casual these days, so I look for ways to add a festive feel without overly fussy details. For many of you, it’s the perfect time to celebrate with a little extra sparkle. Holiday fashion for women over 50 should be about feeling true to your personal style while balancing sophistication, comfort, and a dash of fun without looking goofy or silly. With so many events on the calendar, having easy-to-wear outfits at the ready can make all the difference in enjoying the season with confidence.
I’m joining Cindy from Cindy Hattersley Design and Susan from une femme d’un certain age today to share outfit ideas and tips on adding festive flair.
Let me start by saying, buy for your lifestyle. If you’ll be cooking, hanging out with family at home, and playing with your grandchildren, skip the delicate fabrics that won’t hold up. A party dress will be of no value if your lifestyle is more casual. If you’re going to the Nutcracker or another event, try wearing separates rather than buying a one-use dress or outfit.
1-Focus on Luxe Fabrics
One of the easiest ways to elevate any outfit for the holidays is by choosing luxurious fabrics. Velvet, silk, satin, and even sequins are perfect for creating a sophisticated, festive look. For at-home looks, an elevated plaid shirt or blouse with comfy pants can be the perfect formula.
- Velvet: Soft and rich, velvet is a classic for holiday dressing. Try a velvet blazer over a silky blouse, or go for velvet pants paired with a cashmere sweater for a cozy yet elegant vibe. A simple velvet shirt with your favorite blue jeans also makes a festive statement.
- Silk and Satin: These fabrics have a beautiful drape and add a touch of glamour. A satin blouse or silk scarf can dress up even the simplest outfit. The new silk skirts are perfect for this and can be dressed down with sneakers and a sweater for a casual yet festive look.
- Sequins: Sequins are great for adding sparkle. They work especially well for evening events, but you can also add a sequin tee to some lounge pants for a fun look. Choose sequined tops or skirts and balance them with simple pieces to keep the look refined.
2-Embrace Festive Colors
The holidays are a great time to play with color. Classic holiday hues are everywhere this time of year and add a festive feel to any outfit.
- Classic Red and Green: These colors feel instantly festive. Try a red sweater with dark jeans for a casual gathering or an emerald blouse with black pants for a dressier event.
- Jewel Tones: Jewel tones like sapphire blue, ruby red, and amethyst purple are also fun and can give your outfit a rich feel no matter the fabric.
- Metallics: Gold, silver, and bronze accents are always on trend for the holidays. Try a metallic bag or shoe to add a touch of glam.
Style Tip: When wearing bold colors, keep your silhouette simple to let the color shine.
Style Tip: Choose one luxurious fabric as the focal point of your outfit to keep things understated. For example, if you’re wearing a velvet blazer, pair it with tailored black pants or jeans rather than going all out with a velvet suit.
3-The Power of Accessories
KITTEN HEELS / SHOULDER BAG / EARRINGS / BROOCH
Accessories are a great way to add holiday cheer and personality to your outfit.
- Statement Jewelry: A bold necklace or pair of chandelier earrings can make any outfit feel holiday-ready. I have a few vintage chandelier earrings from my Granny that I pull out every year and love to wear.
- Scarves and Wraps: Scarves made of luxurious materials like cashmere or silk add elegance and warmth. Look for options with metallic threads or subtle holiday patterns to add festive flair. You can add campy, goofy patterns here if that’s your vibe, but I’d skip the Santa or reindeer sweaters.
- Bags with a Festive Touch: A metallic or jeweled bag adds a holiday feel without overpowering your outfit. J.Crew has some fabulous ones this year, so check them out.
Style Tip: If you’re wearing a bold accessory, keep the rest of your look simple to avoid overdoing it. Let one or two key pieces stand out.
4-Choosing the Right Footwear
If your holiday season involves a lot of standing, comfortable footwear is a must. Honestly, it’s a must for me every day, and we know there are plenty of stylish, comfortable options to choose from.
- Block Heels: Block heels offer stability and comfort, perfect for events where you’ll be on your feet. They pair beautifully with both dresses and pants.
- Embellished Flats: If you prefer not to wear heels, embellished flats are a stylish alternative. Look for details like jeweled accents or metallic finishes.
- Ankle Boots: For a modern look, ankle boots are both stylish and versatile. They work well with pants, skirts, and dresses and can be dressed up or down.
Style Tip: If you’re wearing a new pair of shoes, break them in ahead of time to ensure comfort during the event. You’ll enjoy the night much more with happy feet!
See also Comfortable Gold and Silver Dress Shoes for Older Women and Comfortable Low Heel Dress Shoes for Weddings and Events.
5-Flattering Silhouettes
The right silhouette is key to feeling comfortable and confident. Stick to cuts that highlight your best features and offer ease of movement.
You may also enjoy Simple Tips To Guarantee Your Clothes Fit Properly.
- A-Line Dresses: An A-line dress is universally flattering and works well for a range of holiday events. I find them especially helpful for sit down dinners (like Thanksgiving) where pants can bind around my middle. Styles with subtle embellishments up the festive feel.
- Tailored Pants: Tailored pants in an elevated fabric like velvet or wool offer both comfort and sophistication. Pair with a pretty blouse and a fuzzy cardigan.
Style Tip: When in doubt, go with what makes you feel best. If you’re more comfortable in pants, embrace it—there’s no rule that says holiday style has to mean dresses and skirts.
Practical Tips for Shopping Holiday Outfits
Shopping for holiday outfits can be a bit overwhelming with all the options available, so here are some tips to make it easier.
- Only buy for your lifestyle: It’s all too easy to get lulled in by the pretty, fancy offerings that will be a total waste of your money if you don’t have the life for them and don’t wear them.
- Invest in Versatile Pieces: Look for items that you can wear for multiple occasions. A good pair of velvet pants or a silk blouse can last for years and can be dressed up or down.
- Choose Pieces That Mix and Match: Neutral colors and classic cuts make it easy to mix and match. This allows you to create several outfits with fewer pieces.
- Shop Early: Avoid last-minute shopping by planning your outfits in advance. This will give you time to find the best options and ensure your sizes are available.
- Set a Budget: The holidays can add up quickly, so set a budget for your holiday wardrobe. Look for quality over quantity and prioritize pieces you know you’ll love.
Style Tip: Don’t be afraid to re-wear and restyle. With the right accessories, you can make one dress or blazer feel completely different each time you wear it. I’ll be pulling out my 10-year-old velvet blazer to pair with jeans this year.
Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident!
You look amazing, Jennifer! And the fact that you can still fit into your 30 year old skirt! Bravo.
Off to do a little holiday shopping.
It does have an elastic waistband 😉 Thanks Mary Ann♥️
My amethyst sweater arrived today. I’ll be dressed for a casual, kitchen-centred Christmas, cooking our traditional favorite dishes. It’s fine to wear something other than red and green or Christmas-themed.
I agree. That’s such a pretty sweater!
Love that you encourage re-using and re-styling! You sometimes mention clothes and accessories (including handbags) that you’ve had for decades. I know that you’ve posted in the past about closet management, but I would love to see a post dedicated to how to store items that are used infrequently so they accessible when needed. Thanks for your consideration!
That’s a great idea, I will see what I can put together.
I got your brother’s Peter Stone book 3 today! I had a note on my calendar reminding me the book was coming out today. I’m looking forward to reading it!
Also, nice ideas for using what you have rather than getting new clothes.
He’s the real writer in the family. I love his books too! Thanks Nancy
Thank you for your great suggestions! We have a casual HOA Thanksgiving dinner coming this Sunday. I plan to wear my Dark green velvet jeans and matching green moch neck top. I have black booties and a holiday broach. That is it for us as far as holiday events. Our family is not coming as all live out of state.
I love the sound of your outfit! Have fun Sydney
I loved everything in your post today. Now to choose.
What great ideas
Thank you
Oh, Jennifer! That little plaid scarf from Vineyard Vines? Ooh la la—had to have it! Thank you😀😀
I love bandanas for adding a bit of interest to an outfit.
Love those coated denim pants and that metallic jean skirt!! I need to go back and check those out. I think we are all on the same page with more casual outings! Now you two have inspired me!
I’m always inspired by you! You’re so creative.
Great post, Jennifer! I love all of these festive ideas.
Thanks Susan
Every Christmas I wear velvet pants from Ralph Lauren with a with a dressy white blouse and a boiled wool red and green vest paired with embellished red flats. All purchased years ago! I keep the jewelry simple. Takes the guesswork out of what to wear. Thank you for the insightful tips.
I love that! It’s sounds like a brilliant combination.
You look so very elegant Jennifer. Beautiful in browns too ( you look great in most colors!) so many pretty pieces here- thank you!
Thanks Paulette! Have a great day.