Reaching for expensive anti-ageing serums is one way to look younger but clothing is more important than many women may think.
For women in their 40s, 50s and beyond, dressing to look younger doesn’t mean following every fleeting trend, but rather embracing timeless pieces that flatter your figure and reflect your personality.
All it takes is a few tweaks to the colours, cuts and styles featured in your wardrobe, and the pay-off can be immense – especially in the colder months, claims Rachel Thomson, managing director at Humes Outfitters.
She said: “While the colder weather may make it tempting to reach for all the black and dark shades in your wardrobe, this can be counter-productive if you’re aiming for a more youthful look.
“As we age, our skin tends to lose some of its natural glow, which can make darker colours less flattering.”
Rachel suggested women ditch the harsh black tones in their wardrobes, which can leave pasty complexions looking washed out, for more earthy tones inspired by a warmer colour palette.
The clothing expert elaborated: “By mixing in some warmer and lighter hues, you can brighten up your overall look and get some of that glow back.
“Fortunately, there are plenty of light and warm shades that blend in perfectly with autumnal outfits, such as light beiges, mustard, amber, and green hues. Bright, autumnal pops of colour can also make an outfit more youthful, especially orange hues which represent the natural beauty of the season.”
That said, Rachel warned against over-eccentric styles, specifically those that aren’t deemed “timeless”.
She explained that less is often more when it comes to these more vibrant shades, so brighter hues are best incorporated into an outfit in the form of accessories, such as hats and scarves.
As for clothing deemed “trendy”, Rachel explained: “Following the newest fashion trends can be a good way to make your wardrobe feel younger, but in recent years Gen Z and Millenials have been looking to add more timeless staple pieces to their wardrobes.
“This can be a great option for those looking to dress more youthfully this autumn and beyond, as these classic styles look great on any figure.
“Some autumnal staples of a capsule wardrobe you may want to add include slim-fit jeans, roll-neck jumpers, a suede midi or maxi skirt, and a neutral trench coat.”
Trends aren’t completely out of bounds for mature women, however, it’s just about picking the right ones. This autumn, plaid looks set to be “all the rage”, according to Rachel.
Despite dominating high-street fashion outlets, plaid is unique in that it has more longevity. “While it is at the height of popularity at the minute, this pattern is timeless too, plus it blends in perfectly with mature and youthful wardrobes”, said Rachel.
She warned: “Avoid oversized plaid shirts which can distort your natural shape and swamp you. Instead, opt for tailored plaid shirts, blouses, and skirts.”
Rachel suggested that you can also incorporate the pattern with your accessories, such as a plaid scarf or handbag.
