When it comes to fashion over 50, there are some really fun trends this year that will make your fall – and your winter – a lot cozier and hipper. In general, things have gone mega this year: bold patterns, stylized booties, and oversized coats, wraps, and boyfriend-type jackets.
As for the patterns, plaid is everywhere. We typically associate it with our flannel winter shirts or as a coat and jacket lining. But now plaid is making an unabashed statement, adding a little playfulness to the more austere attire we associate with the colder months. This is definitely a trend that applies well to fashion over 50.
Of course, wearing a voluminous wrap or poncho takes some finesse. Many of these items come in “one size-fits-somebody.” So it’s important when following this “oversize” trend to make sure that the textile doesn’t overwhelm your frame. There’s a fine line between edgy and clown-like.
You can never go wrong with a new great cozy scarf for the fall and winter but this year they’re more like blankets. Plaid blankets!
Burberry Vintage Check Collette Poncho, $990
Rag & Bone Sven Reversible Coat, $397.50
Ralph Lauren Tartan Plaid Cape, $228
Michael Stars Even Better Poncho, $58
And if that’s a bit too much for your personality and size, there are some wonderful plaid scarves in all colors and various sizes. They’re best worn with your neutrals: a classic wool coat, to dress up your jean jacket, or as a lively addition to a plain neutral color cashmere sweater.
Ralph Lauren Alpaca Blend Ombre Plaids Blanket Wrap, $98
Trouvé Double Sided Blanket Wrap, $39
For a different and new take on the biker jacket, the closer-fit biker versions have gone bigger and sometimes belted. And, the addition of shearling or faux fur makes for a tough/soft combination that brings both edginess and a little femininity to your jeans, leggings, and even dresses. If you live in a cooler climate you will get a lot of use out of this type of jacket.
Vince Leather Shearling Moto Jacket, $1,995
Ted Baker London Colour by Numbers Leather Biker Jacket with Faux Fur Trim, $595
Rebecca Minkoff Hudson Leopard Faux Calf Hair Jacket, $298
Vince Camuto Faux Leather Faux Shearling Moto Jacket, $199
Free People Owen Faux Fur Sherpa Jacket, $178
Blank NYC Faux Sherpa Jacket in Silent Night, $148
Ankle boots have taken their place in a winter wardrobe as a more feminine (if not more leg-warming) alternative to some of the dramatic, over-the-knee boots. This year the newest look is a kitten-type heel and a pointier toe. Now, that’s a shape that won’t work for everyone. But you can still make them a focal point by going an unexpected detail, a slimmer heel, or by choosing something in a fun textile.
Kate Spade Sophie Suede Ankle Boots, $298
Robert Redford Wing Tip Boots, $198
Karl Lagerfeld Paris Maude Leopard Print Calf Hair Boots, $169
BP. Remi Zip Combat Bootie, $99.95
Finally, if you want to make a real trend/statement splash, you can mix it all up for the holidays with this combination of plaid…and bling!
Badgley Mischka Sequin Coated Plaid Coat, $395
Just remember ladies, when it comes to fashion over 50, you can have it all. Choose the trends that flatter, classics that are your go-to pieces, and anything that makes you feel beautiful.
